In 2024, there is undoubtable merit in using clean, responsibly-produced, aesthetically-packaged beauty products. MERIT is Katherine Power’s brand of essentials that are safe for body, skin, and planet. They’re not only vegan, cruelty-free, and safe for all skin types–they’re really good, too. I, like much of the internet, tried the viral complexion stick (The Minimalist) and was impressed by how well it blended while still providing coverage (no pilling in sight); it’s now my top makeup traveling essential. Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out a few of their new launches.
MERIT’s new lipstick formula, the matte version of the Signature Lip, is so feather-light that I forgot it was on my lips. This is not one of those lipsticks that you can feel throughout the day. It’s comfortable to wear and hard to wipe off, which many of us look for in a lipstick. The packaging is light and easy to slip into a bag, but still feels luxe (love that touch of gold). I tried two shades: Sunday and Classic. I remember hearing once that you should try a lipstick color on with no other makeup on your skin; if the shade is right for you, it should brighten and flatter your complexion despite your bare skin. I decided to put this theory to the test–and these two shades passed! For reference, I have fair, cool-toned skin.
Classic is a stunning neutral that I’d call “my lips but better.” “Neutrals” usually look brown or orange on me, but this shade was almost identical to my lips in tone, just a bit darker. This is quickly becoming my everyday shade; I like to dab some on and blot with a napkin so it becomes a stain.
Sunday is a beautiful, mid-toned pink that is on the same spectrum as Classic (but pinker). Despite my fair skin, this color didn’t feel overly bold; rather, it’s a muted statement lipstick, not too far off from my natural shade. They really nailed the undertones in this launch of lip products.
Another new launch, Day Glow, is the highlighting balm stick of my dreams. Applying a highlight could not be any easier–simply swipe the stick across cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and wherever else you want a little luster. Cava is a stunning champagne shade with no glitter or sparkle–it’s more of a sheen. It contains squalane, which can soften and smooth skin.
Discover Signature Lip Matte and Day Glow at meritbeauty.com.
