It's no secret that we're running a little short on lipstick these days. With masks covering the lower half of our faces, it doesn't make much sense to carefully apply a product in the morning that will smudge and turn into mascara in 10 seconds. I've gotten used to wearing a mask (open in new tab), and I can keep myself and others healthy while wearing it. But when you wear the same sweatpants for days on end and can't be bothered to brush your hair, sometimes you need a change of scenery. That's why lipstick is my quick fix. Don't you feel super cute? Apply lipstick (opens in new tab). I forgot to apply my deodorant" lipstick might distract anyone from me. Having trouble applying mascara? Lipstick. Basically, any problem I have is made just a little bit better by applying lipstick. So the last few months, when I really, really needed to be comforted and feel more like myself, it was hard not to have my safety blanket.

For like-minded people, liquid lipsticks have moved to center stage because of their staying power under a mask. However, while there are a few long-lasting liquid lipsticks that I like, to be honest, most liquid lipsticks are not for me. I have a dry phobia of lips, exactly like many liquid lipsticks. On top of that, they last all day around my lips, but after a few sips of coffee, they leave a pockmark in the center of my mouth. But hallelujah! -I have found the lipstick I have been waiting for my whole life.

Brief description: this Maybelline lipstick is a liquid type lipstick, not a bullet-type lipstick, and it dries once applied. What struck me about this product, however, is that it can be used on both sides. While one side provides long-lasting, intense color, the other side is a balm that is applied over the lipstick after it has dried. It is like a top coat for nail polish; the color is good, but it is the top coat that makes the nails shiny and smooth. It keeps its color all day and never, and I mean never, moves. If you get balm on your coffee cup, just apply some more. In fact, you can apply the balm as many times as you like during the day.

When I keep this product in my pocket, I suddenly feel like myself again. It's chic, powerful, and looks like you've put more effort into your appearance than you have in a long time.