In today’s beauty landscape where bold experimentation meets everyday wearability, metallic lipsticks have carved out a unique niche. Among these offerings stands Maybelline New York’s Color Sensational Metallic Lipstick in Smoked Silver – a shade that promises to deliver that coveted metallic finish without breaking the bank. As a beauty expert who’s tested countless lip products across price points, I’m diving deep into this affordable metallic option to determine whether it deserves a spot in your makeup collection.
First Impressions: Packaging and Appearance
The Maybelline Color Sensational Metallic Lipstick in Smoked Silver comes in the brand’s signature packaging – a sleek cylindrical tube with a clear section that allows you to see the shade inside. At 0.15 oz, it offers the standard amount of product you’d expect from a drugstore lipstick.
Some users have noted that their packaging didn’t feature the Maybelline name prominently, raising questions about authenticity. This is worth mentioning since counterfeits do circulate in the beauty market. For best results, purchase from authorized retailers to ensure you’re getting the genuine product.
The Color: A Unique Metallic Marvel
Smoked Silver is truly a standout shade in Maybelline’s lineup. Based on multiple user descriptions, this isn’t a true silver but rather a complex metallic shade with purple-gray undertones. The color has been described variously as:
- “Silver purple looking color even grayish with purple undertones”
- “A light silver metallic color with a hint of purple”
- “Looks a little like brushed metal on the lips”
- “A gray/lavender shade that was nostalgic from the nineties”
This nuanced description explains why the shade appears different in various lighting conditions and why some users expecting a pure silver finish might be disappointed. The color is intentionally complex, offering dimension rather than a flat metallic effect.
What makes this shade particularly interesting is its versatility across skin tones. Multiple reviewers with diverse complexions, from “Coco Brown” to lighter skin tones, have expressed satisfaction with how the color complements their skin. One African American reviewer mentioned, “I adore this color… it fits my complexion like a glove,” while another noted it “Fits African-American women and Caucasian women skin tone.”
Application and Texture
The Smoked Silver lipstick applies with varying results depending on lip preparation and technique. Most users report that it “slides smoothly” and has a “nice and smooth” feel on application. The finish is described as a “metallic matte,” offering the best of both worlds – the statement-making quality of a metallic with the contemporary appeal of a matte.
For optimal application:
- Exfoliate lips beforehand, as some users note it can emphasize dry areas
- Apply a thin layer of lip balm if your lips tend to be dry
- Consider using a lip liner for more precise application
- Build up in layers for more intense color payoff
Several reviewers mentioned that they like to combine this shade with other lipsticks, using it as a topper to create custom effects. One user shared, “I mix it with some of my other lipsticks to create my own color,” while another mentioned, “When I don’t want to go too dark I just put a little silver over it and it looks great.”
Comfort and Wear
The comfort level of this lipstick receives mixed reviews. While many users find it comfortable enough for daily wear, others describe it as “very, very dry,” necessitating a lip balm underneath or on top. This variance likely depends on individual lip texture and hydration levels.
In terms of longevity, this is where the product faces its biggest challenge. Multiple reviewers note that it is “not long lasting” and required reapplication throughout an evening. One user specifically mentioned having “to re-apply several times throughout the night” when wearing it for a costume event.
Another issue some users encountered is that “after a while it cakes on your lips.” This suggests that touch-ups should be done carefully, perhaps blotting and reapplying rather than layering repeatedly.
Versatility: Beyond Everyday Wear
One of the most interesting aspects of the Smoked Silver shade is its versatility beyond regular daily wear. Users have successfully incorporated it into:
- Concert looks: “I bought it for a concert, but also wanted something I could use beyond”
- Costume events: “Purchased for a costume and it was exactly what I was hoping for”
- Halloween looks: “It went perfect with my witch hat headbands”
- Special occasion ensembles: “This is a GREAT Lipstick and matched well with my Silver Polish and bag”
This versatility makes the product an excellent value proposition – a specialty shade that can transition between statement looks and, with the right styling, more subdued everyday wear.
Age Appropriateness and Style Considerations
An interesting theme in the reviews is the question of age appropriateness for metallic finishes. One middle-aged reviewer specifically addressed this, stating: “This color is probably meant for younger folks, but as a middle aged woman, I think it adds a little drama without looking gaudy. Especially if you have greying hair and wear cool, neutral colors.”
This perspective challenges conventional beauty “rules” about age-appropriate makeup and suggests that Smoked Silver can work well for mature users, particularly those with cool-toned wardrobes or silver/gray hair.
Value Proposition
At its price point (significantly lower than high-end metallic lipsticks), Maybelline’s Smoked Silver offers exceptional value, especially given its unique color. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned the price as a positive factor:
- “Great price for two tubes of lipstick!”
- “Great price compared to similar lipsticks”
- “It saved me about $15” (compared to specialty brands)
- “Good value for the money!”
For those seeking a metallic lipstick for occasional use or experimentation, this affordable option allows for trend participation without significant investment.
Comparison to Premium Alternatives
Several reviewers mentioned choosing this product as an alternative to more expensive options. One specifically mentioned Colorganics as their usual brand of choice (citing allergies to FD&C red dyes), but found Smoked Silver to be a suitable and much more affordable alternative since the silver shade doesn’t contain those particular dyes.
The main differences between this and premium metallic lipsticks would typically be in longevity and moisturizing properties. Higher-end formulations often include more sophisticated hydrating ingredients and longer-wear technology. However, for many users, the significant price difference makes these trade-offs acceptable.
Potential Drawbacks
To provide a balanced assessment, these are the most commonly mentioned drawbacks:
- Longevity issues: The formula doesn’t provide all-day wear without reapplication
- Potential for drying: Some users found it excessively drying
- Product integrity concerns: At least one reviewer received a damaged product where “the whole lipstick was stuck in the lid and smushed to the top”
- Color expectations: Some buyers expected a true silver and were disappointed by the purple-gray undertones
- Caking with buildup: Can cake on lips with repeated application
Who Should Buy This Lipstick?
Based on the collective feedback, Maybelline’s Smoked Silver would be an excellent choice for:
- Those wanting to experiment with metallic lips without significant investment
- Makeup enthusiasts seeking a versatile costume/special event lip color
- People with cool-toned wardrobes looking for a complementary statement lip
- Those who enjoy creating custom lip looks by mixing and layering products
- Individuals allergic to red dyes who want an alternative metallic option
- Shoppers seeking a nostalgic 90s-inspired lip color
It may be less suitable for:
- Those seeking an intensely silver, chrome-like finish
- Individuals with very dry lips (unless using significant prep and balm)
- Shoppers prioritizing all-day wear without touch-ups
Creative Usage Tips from Reviewers
Beyond standard application, reviewers shared several creative ways to use this product:
- Layering for custom effects: “I put this silver color on top for an interesting effect” over deep burgundy
- Mixing with other lipsticks: “I mix it with some of my other lipsticks to create my own color”
- Topping with gloss: “Put a shiny coat of gloss which really brought the shiny out”
- Using as a transformer shade: Lightening darker lipsticks by adding a touch of Smoked Silver
Final Verdict
Maybelline New York Color Sensational Metallic Lipstick in Smoked Silver is a unique, versatile, and affordable entry into the metallic lip trend. While it doesn’t deliver perfect all-day wear or intense hydration, its complex purple-silver shade, smooth application, and cross-demographic appeal make it a worthy addition to many makeup collections.
For best results, pair it with proper lip preparation and be prepared for occasional touch-ups throughout the day. Consider it not just a standalone lipstick but a versatile tool in your makeup arsenal that can transform other lip colors or create special-occasion looks.
With its wallet-friendly price point and distinctive finish, Smoked Silver demonstrates that Maybelline continues to successfully balance trend-forward formulations with accessibility – delivering a taste of luxury cosmetic innovation at drugstore prices.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Pros:
- Unique, versatile shade that works across skin tones
- Smooth application
- Affordable price point
- Great for special occasions and creative makeup looks
- Works well for layering and custom color creation
Cons:
- Limited longevity
- Can be drying for some users
- May cake with repeated application
- Not a true silver (a pro or con depending on expectations)
Whether you’re a makeup novice dipping your toes into bolder looks or a seasoned beauty enthusiast seeking to expand your lipstick wardrobe without breaking the bank, Maybelline’s Smoked Silver offers a distinctive option that bridges everyday wear and special-occasion drama – a rare find at its accessible price point.
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