Hey makeup lovers! Ever found yourself desperately searching for a lipstick that can handle anything? You know, one that survives coffee dates, late-night chats, and everything in between? Well, today, we're diving deep into the world of the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick, specifically the shade, Straps Off. This lipstick has been buzzing in the beauty community for a while now, promising intense color and serious staying power. But does it truly live up to the hype? Let's break it down, shall we?

First off, the allure of a long-lasting matte lipstick is undeniable. Who wants to constantly reapply their lipstick throughout the day? Not me! The promise of a bold, beautiful lip color that stays put is a major selling point. The NYX XXL Matte Lipstick, with its catchy name, definitely grabs your attention. It's a bold claim – XXL implies extra staying power, right? And Straps Off? That's a fun, flirty name that makes you want to embrace your confident side. But before we get carried away by the marketing, we need to know: Does this lipstick really have what it takes? Is it going to survive a full day of wear, or will it fade away faster than your weekend plans?

Before we jump into the details of the wear test, let's talk about the initial impression. The packaging is sleek and simple, typical of NYX. It's nothing overly fancy, but it gets the job done. The lipstick bullet itself is a nice shape, making application relatively easy. As for the shade Straps Off, it's a gorgeous, deep nude. It’s the kind of color that would look fantastic on a variety of skin tones. The formula is where things get interesting. NYX claims this lipstick is both comfortable and long-wearing. That's a big ask because matte lipsticks often sacrifice comfort for longevity, leaving your lips feeling dry and cracked. So, can this lipstick deliver on both fronts? It's a bold claim to make, but that's what we are here to explore today. A major draw is the price point. NYX is known for its affordable products, and this lipstick is no exception. It is easily accessible at drugstores and online retailers. So even if it doesn't quite live up to the “XXL” hype, it still offers incredible value for its price. Let's delve into the nitty-gritty: the application, the wear, and the all-important question - does it actually stay on?

Application and Initial Impressions

Alright, let's talk application! Applying the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick is pretty straightforward. The bullet shape makes it easy to glide on, and the color payoff is fantastic. The Straps Off shade is rich and pigmented, giving you full coverage in just a couple of swipes. You don't need a lip liner, but it's always a good idea to use one to prevent feathering, especially with a bold color. But honestly, even without a lip liner, the application is smooth, and the color looks great from the get-go. The texture feels surprisingly comfortable. It's not as drying as some other matte lipsticks I've tried. That's a major win in my book. One of the biggest complaints about matte lipsticks is how dry they can feel, making your lips look cracked and uncomfortable. This one is a little different, though. It feels a bit creamy initially, and then it sets into a matte finish. It's a nice balance, and this is exactly what you want.

However, it's not all sunshine and roses right away. There is a slight scent, which is pretty common with lipsticks. It is not overpowering, but it is noticeable. If you are sensitive to fragrances, it might be something to consider. The initial feeling is pretty good, and the color is gorgeous. It is a solid start! The true test, however, is the wear. Will it stay put through eating, drinking, and talking? That is the real question. Also, while the initial application is great, you have to remember that this is a matte lipstick, so you shouldn't expect it to feel like a lip balm. However, it doesn't feel heavy or overly drying like some others. Another important thing to consider is the color itself. Straps Off is a versatile nude. It is perfect for everyday wear and can easily be dressed up for a night out. It is a great choice if you are looking for a go-to shade that will work with any makeup look. But the application, scent, and initial impressions are just the beginning. The real test is, of course, the longevity. Does it last, or does it fade away quickly? Let's talk about the wear test.

The Wear Test: Putting it to the Test

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the wear test. I applied the NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off in the morning, ready to put it through its paces. I wanted to see how well it would hold up to a typical day, including meals, drinks, and general activities. During the day, I had a coffee. This is a common test, because coffee can easily remove even long-lasting lipsticks. I had lunch, which included eating a sandwich and some snacks. The most significant test? That would be dinner, which involved a more oily meal. This is where many lipsticks fail, and it is a good indicator of overall performance. It has to endure some serious challenges! After the first hour, the lipstick still looked amazing. The color was vibrant, and it hadn't budged. This is a good start, but it's too early to make any judgments. By the time I had lunch, I noticed some fading, particularly around the inner part of my lips. It wasn't a drastic change, but it was noticeable. The color was still there, but not as intense as before. I reapplied the lipstick, because I wanted to see how many reapplications it needed. After the second application, it still looked great. I was impressed. It held up quite well during the afternoon, but then came dinner, and it was a real challenge. After the oily meal, there was considerable fading. The lipstick had transferred onto my food and the edges were a bit messy. It wasn't completely gone, but it definitely needed a touch-up. It survived, but barely.

The final verdict? The NYX XXL Matte Lipstick in Straps Off offers decent wear time for its price. It doesn't quite live up to the