The innovative lipsticks set to replace your favourite matte formulas

While there will always be a place for glosses, creamy lipsticks and balms in our makeup kits, there’s no doubt that matte formulas have become the finish of choice in recent years. Perhaps the main reason for this is the increase in research that has led to the production of improved formulas that are both comfortable and long-wearing (good riddance drying matte formulas!). But just because quality matte lipsticks are now a dime a dozen, doesn’t mean that new and improved formulas aren’t still being created…and challenging them for a prized spot in your makeup kit. In fact, the latest shine-free formula set to be the next big thing in the lip world have already been developed, and they’re in the form of powder lipsticks.  

Yep, powder – but it’s not what you think. This K-beauty innovation combines the weightless feel of a powder with the cream consistency of a traditional lipstick to deliver a lip colour that feels comfortable on lips and is buildable and blendable for a more-customised finish. 

Unlike classic matte lipsticks that deliver a solid wash of opaque colour all over the lips, powder formulas create a hazy and imperfect finish, with the pigment appearing as though it’s smudged into the lip line. Perfect for creating a soft-focus effect, some formulas start out as a powder before transforming into a cream texture upon contact with your lip’s natural oils; while others look like traditional lipstick bullets but contain powder pigments in the formula.

With a number of different brands already releasing their own powder lipsticks, and more likely to follow suit, lip powders are set to be one of the biggest makeup trends of 2019. If you want to get a jumpstart on the look, these are five of our favourite powder lipsticks available right now.