Maybelline Lipstick vs. Revlon: Which Drugstore Brand Offers Better Quality?

When it comes to drugstore lipsticks, two heavyweight brands often come up for comparison: Maybelline and Revlon. Both have long-standing reputations, affordable prices, and a wide range of shades and finishes. But if you’re wondering which brand offers better quality in terms of formula, wear, pigmentation, and overall performance, this detailed comparison will help you decide.


1. Shade Range and Variety

Maybelline

Maybelline offers an extensive lipstick lineup, including collections like SuperStay Matte Ink, Color Sensational Creamy Matte, and Vinyl Ink Glossy Lip Colors. Their shade range is broad, covering everything from bold reds to trendy mauves and everyday nudes. Newer eco-friendly lines also provide options for clean beauty lovers.

Revlon

Revlon’s lipstick collections—such as Super Lustrous, Ultra HD Gel Lipcolor, and ColorStay—are equally diverse. They tend to focus on classic shades with some seasonal limited editions. Their formula variety ranges from creamy to matte, plus glosses and tints.

Winner: Both brands excel here, but Maybelline offers slightly more cutting-edge shades and finishes.


2. Formula and Texture

Maybelline

Maybelline lipsticks are known for their comfortable wear, especially in formulas like Color Sensational Creamy Matte, which strikes a balance between hydration and pigment. The SuperStay Matte Ink offers impressive longevity but can be drying for some. Vinyl Ink lipsticks provide a glossy finish without stickiness.

Revlon

Revlon’s Super Lustrous line is famous for its creamy, moisturizing texture that glides on smoothly. Their ColorStay Matte line offers long wear with decent comfort but may require touch-ups for extreme longevity. Overall, Revlon lipsticks tend to feel more hydrating than Maybelline’s long-wear formulas.

Winner: Revlon takes the edge for moisturizing comfort, while Maybelline wins on long-lasting formulas.


3. Pigmentation and Coverage

Maybelline

Maybelline delivers high-impact pigmentation, especially in lines like SuperStay Matte Ink and Loaded Bolds, which are rich and opaque in just one swipe. Their cream and satin formulas offer medium to full coverage with smooth application.

Revlon

Revlon lipsticks also offer excellent pigmentation, particularly in Super Lustrous, which delivers vibrant color with a creamy finish. Their Ultra HD Gel Lipcolor provides buildable color but leans more towards sheer to medium coverage.

Winner: Maybelline generally offers stronger pigmentation and more intense color payoff.


4. Longevity and Wear

Maybelline

Maybelline’s SuperStay Matte Ink line boasts up to 16 hours of wear with minimal fading, making it one of the longest-lasting drugstore lipsticks. Other lines like Vinyl Ink hold up well but need occasional touch-ups.

Revlon

Revlon’s ColorStay lipsticks offer solid wear time—usually around 6 to 8 hours—and good transfer resistance, but they aren’t quite as long-lasting as Maybelline’s top performers.

Winner: Maybelline clearly leads in long-lasting wear.


5. Packaging and Presentation

Maybelline

Maybelline’s packaging is modern and practical, with sturdy tubes and clear labeling. Some lines have innovative applicators, like the flexible tips on SuperStay Matte Ink.

Revlon

Revlon lipsticks often feature classic, elegant packaging with metallic finishes and solid builds. They look sleek on vanity shelves but lack some of Maybelline’s modern applicator innovations.

Winner: This is a matter of personal preference; Maybelline is more modern and functional, Revlon more classic and luxe.


6. Price and Accessibility

Both Maybelline and Revlon are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online, with similar price points typically ranging between $7 to $12 per lipstick.

Winner: Tie.


Final Verdict: Which Brand Offers Better Quality?

  • If you prioritize long-lasting, bold pigmentation and innovative finishes, Maybelline is your go-to. Their SuperStay Matte Ink and other lines deliver high-performance results perfect for all-day wear.
  • If you prefer comfort, hydration, and a creamy texture with classic shades, Revlon shines. Their moisturizing formulas are great for those who want beautiful color without dryness.

Ultimately, both brands offer excellent drugstore lipstick options. Your choice depends on whether you want maximum staying power or superior comfort—and luckily, both are budget-friendly winners.


Pro Tip:

Try exploring both brands! Many beauty lovers keep staples from each brand to suit different moods, occasions, and finishes.