As a beauty expert, I’ve tested countless lipstick formulations over the years, and today I’ll be sharing my in-depth review of the Maybelline New York Color Sensational The Buffs Lip Color in the shade “Nude Lust”. This particular nude lipstick has generated quite a buzz in the beauty community, so let’s explore whether it lives up to the hype.
Product Overview
The Maybelline Color Sensational The Buffs collection features a range of nude lipsticks designed to complement various skin tones. “Nude Lust” (0.15 ounce) is one of the popular shades in this collection, marketed as a versatile neutral that works for everyday wear.
Formula and Texture
Moisturizing Properties
One of the most consistent pieces of feedback from users is how moisturizing this lipstick feels. Multiple reviewers mentioned that it leaves their lips feeling “soft” and “moisturized” — a significant benefit for a matte-leaning formula. Unlike many nude lipsticks that can accentuate dry patches, The Buffs line seems to maintain comfort throughout wear time.
The creamy consistency glides on smoothly without tugging at the lips, which is particularly important for a nude shade where application precision matters. The lipstick doesn’t settle into fine lines, and several users noted they experienced “no issues with bleeding,” making it suitable for those concerned about feathering.
Wear Time
When it comes to longevity, this lipstick performs admirably for a traditional bullet formula. Users report that it “stays on well,” though as with most creamy lipsticks, you can expect to reapply after eating or drinking. The moisturizing formula means it wears off evenly rather than patchily, which is a significant advantage for busy individuals who can’t constantly check their makeup.
Color Accuracy and Appearance
Shade Description
“Nude Lust” is intended to be a neutral nude with subtle warm undertones. However, the most significant point of contention among reviewers concerns the color accuracy compared to online images. Multiple users mentioned a discrepancy between the product photos and the actual shade:
“The color is nowhere near what is depicted here. It was very, very pale, not this gorgeous mocha peach color shown here.”
“It’s extremely nude.”
“Much lighter than the photo.”
This feedback suggests that “Nude Lust” may appear significantly lighter on the lips than expected based on product images. Those with fair skin tones noted they sometimes need to mix it with darker shades to avoid looking “washed out.”
Versatility
Despite the shade discrepancy, many users still find value in this lipstick, with some mentioning it’s their “perfect color” and that they’ve struggled to find it in physical stores. This indicates that for the right skin tone, this particular nude can become a staple in one’s makeup collection.
Sensory Experience
Scent and Taste
While many reviewers focused on the color and texture, one user specifically mentioned that the lipstick “smells and tastes bad.” Maybelline lipsticks typically have a subtle sweet scent, but this feedback suggests potential batch inconsistencies or personal sensitivity to the fragrance components.
Value and Accessibility
Price Point
At a mid-range drugstore price point, this lipstick provides excellent value according to several reviewers. One user specifically mentioned: “I have paid five times more for premium brands and don’t like them like I like color sensation lipstick.” This speaks to Maybelline’s ability to deliver quality formulations at accessible price points.
Availability
Multiple reviewers mentioned difficulty finding this specific shade in physical stores, turning to online retailers like Amazon as their only option to purchase “Nude Lust.” This limited in-store availability might explain why some users were surprised by the actual color when it arrived.
Quality Control Issues
A few users reported receiving damaged products, with one mentioning: “All 3 lipsticks came melted.” This suggests potential issues with storage or shipping conditions, particularly during warmer months. While this appears to be an isolated incident rather than a widespread problem, it’s worth noting for those ordering during summer.
Who Is This Lipstick For?
Based on user feedback, this lipstick would be most suitable for:
- Those with light to medium skin tones seeking a very subtle lip color
- People who prioritize comfort and moisturizing properties in their lipsticks
- Makeup minimalists who prefer “your lips but better” shades
- Individuals who struggle with lipstick feathering or bleeding
It may be less suitable for:
- Those with deeper skin tones, as multiple reviewers with darker complexions found it too light
- People seeking a more pigmented or statement nude
- Those sensitive to fragrance in beauty products
How To Make It Work For You
If you purchase this lipstick and find it too light for your complexion, several techniques can help make it more wearable:
- Pair with a darker lip liner: Outline and slightly fill in lips with a brown or mauve lip liner before applying Nude Lust.
- Layer over another shade: As one reviewer mentioned, mixing it with a darker lipstick can create a custom shade that’s more flattering.
- Use as a center lip highlight: Apply a darker nude around the perimeter of your lips and use Nude Lust in the center for dimension.
- Balance with stronger eye makeup: Very light nudes can work beautifully when paired with more dramatic eye looks.
Comparable Alternatives
If you’re concerned about the lightness of Nude Lust but appreciate the Color Sensational formula, consider exploring other shades within The Buffs collection that offer slightly deeper options, such as “Truffle Tease” or “Maple Kiss.”
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Maybelline as a brand has made strides in sustainability efforts, though they still have room for improvement. Their standard lipstick packaging is not recyclable through conventional programs, but initiatives like TerraCycle offer specialized recycling options for beauty packaging.
The brand is owned by L’Oréal, which has committed to various sustainability goals but continues to sell in markets that require animal testing, making them not fully cruelty-free by strict definitions.
Summary of Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptionally moisturizing formula
- Smooth application without feathering
- Affordable price point
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Good staying power for a creamy lipstick
Cons:
- Significant discrepancy between product images and actual shade
- May appear too light for medium to deep skin tones
- Some quality control issues reported with shipping
- Potential fragrance sensitivity for some users
- Limited availability in physical stores
Final Verdict
Maybelline New York Color Sensational The Buffs Lip Color in Nude Lust earns a 3.5/5 rating. While the formula is undeniably comfortable and high-quality for its price point, the shade discrepancy and limited versatility across skin tones prevent it from achieving a higher score.
This lipstick exemplifies why swatching in person is ideal for nude shades, though online reviews can help set realistic expectations. For those seeking a very light, subtle nude with excellent comfort, this could become a staple product—just be prepared for a shade that’s likely lighter than the online images suggest.
If you’re a fan of Maybelline’s Color Sensational line but concerned about this particular shade, exploring other options within The Buffs collection might yield a better color match while maintaining the same beloved formula.
Whether Nude Lust becomes your perfect everyday shade or requires some creative mixing to work for your complexion, the quality of the formulation makes it worth considering for anyone building a collection of comfortable, affordable nude lipsticks.
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