After Dorit’s raving review of the Estée Lauder Liquid Lip Potions, I, of course, felt severely compelled to try it out. When we went to Frankfurt, I finally had a look at their whole color lineup, and surprise surprise, I was instantly drawn to the red. A lovely red called lethal red. Who can resist such a name?! Not me!
Colour
I’m a red lipstick junkie for quite some time (see here), and I need to be extremely picky when it comes to my reds, because usually I already have something similar in my stash. But in the case of lethal red, when I swatched it on my hand, I was smitten. It was opaque on application, which made me think that it might actually true to color on my lips. And what a lovely bold red color it is. I think this is the “I’m on stage, let’s own it!” kind of red a true bright neutral red.
Formula
To read Dorit’s review and thoughts on the formula and swatches of all shades, go here! Recap: Estée Lauder promises a long-wearing texture with moisturizing properties and comfortable feeling.
I’m happy to report this particular shade and finish exceeded my expectations – it really is that fabled unicorn of a lipstick formula, long-wearing but not drying.
It is opaque, but unlike other opaque lipsticks I own, this is not drying at all. It’s as comfortable as other, slightly moisturizing lipstick formulas, like Armani’s Rouge Ecstasy or Chanel’s Rouge Allure. It’s also not drying, even in the cold winter weather.
I was a bit sceptical, because nearly all liquid lipsticks I ever tried, feathered out on my lips. Lethal red doesn’t do that.
It’s quite important with such a bright colour that application is precise, because the colour isn’t exactly forgiving. Nevertheless, you don’t need a lip pencil for the Liquid Lip Potions – lethal red is super easy to apply with just its slanted applicator.
Swatches and possible dupes
In comparison to my other favorite reds, this shade is quite different – I don’t own any exact dupes.
There’s nothing I don’t love about Estée Lauder’s Liquid Lip Potions. Thankfully, they’re permanent and available at all the usual stores (Sephora, Douglas) and Estée Lauder counters/Estée Lauder online. Prices are around $30/31€.
