NARS Damage Lipstick’s unique blue-red shade flatters a wide range of skin tones. It offers a rich, vibrant color with a semi-matte, creamy finish. Its formula is infused with vitamin E and silicone. This ensures smooth application and comfortable wear. It’s a versatile choice for both day and night looks. This lipstick’s bold color payoff and long-lasting wear set it apart in the world of red lipsticks. It has had a cult status since 1995.
Introducing NARS Damage Lipstick: A Cult-Favorite Red Lip
NARS Damage lipstick is one of the most iconic red lipsticks of all time. Makeup artists and consumers love this revolutionary blue-red shade. It achieved cult status in the beauty world since its launch in 1995.
This comprehensive guide explores Damage’s history and inspiration. It details its key features and benefits, and compares it to other reds. It also offers tips for application, where to buy it, and reviews from real customers.
Whether you’re looking to try Damage for the first time or are a longtime fan, read on for an in-depth look at this classic NARS lipstick.
The History and Story Behind NARS Damage Lipstick
- Original Launch: Damage lipstick was first introduced in 1995 by legendary makeup artist and founder François Nars. It quickly became a makeup artist staple and one of the first must-have red lipsticks.
- Inspiration: François Nars created Damage as the ultimate edgy, punk-rock red. With its deep blue-red tone, the shade made a bold, rebellious statement in the makeup world.
- Pop Culture Status: Damage lipstick has been worn by numerous celebrities like Madonna and fashion icons. Its appearance on the red carpet and runways cemented its status as a cult favorite shade.
NARS Damage Lipstick Features and Benefits
- Vibrant Color: Damage imparts a rich, vibrant blue-red shade that flatters various skin tones. The color makes teeth appear whiter for an anti-aging effect.
- Creamy Texture: Formulated with vitamin E and silicone, Damage glides on smoothly and moisturizes lips. It has a creamy, semi-matte finish that is very comfortable.
- Long-Lasting: Thanks to its highly pigmented formula, Damage provides up to 6 hours of color with minimal fading or feathering.
- Flattering, Versatile: Damage suits both day and night looks. It works well with everything from a minimal makeup to a dramatic smoky eye.
- Cruelty-Free: NARS does not test on animals, making Damage a great option for eco-conscious beauty lovers.
NARS Damage Lipstick vs. Other Red Lip Shades
Damage vs. Ruby Woo: While Ruby Woo is a blue-red, it has cooler undertones compared to Damage. Damage is warmer and more wearable for daytime. Ruby Woo is also completely matte while Damage has a satin finish.
Damage vs. Russian Red: Russian Red is lighter and more neutral than the richer, bolder Damage. Russian Red has orange undertones while Damage leans blue.
Damage vs. Cruella: Cruella is more purple/wine toned than Damage. Cruella is also more brown-based and muted compared to Damage’s bright pop of color.
Applying and Wearing NARS Damage Lipstick
- Prep Lips: Exfoliate with a damp washcloth and apply balm first so Damage glides on smoothly.
- Use a Lip Liner: Lining lips first prevents feathering and keeps Damage looking perfect. Try NARS Mysterious Red liner.
- Apply Evenly: Damage is highly pigmented so you only need one coat. Apply straight from the bullet for best control.
- Blot and Repeat: Blot with a tissue to set the lipstick. Reapply a second sheer coat to increase longevity.
- Touch Ups: Thanks to its creamy formula, Damage is easy to reapply on the go by using your finger or a lip brush.
Where To Buy NARS Damage Lipstick
- NARS Website or Stores: Damage retails for $29 on the NARS website and their boutiques. Limited edition packaging is sometimes offered.
- Sephora: As a NARS retailer, Sephora carries Damage lipstick in stores and online. Shoppers can get free samples.
- Department Stores: You can also buy Damage from department stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
- Discontinued Variations: Over the years, NARS has released limited edition sizes and formulas of Damage. These include the Damage Shine and Damage Sheer variations.
Damage Lipstick Reviews and Testimonials
- Damage is a muted, medium-dark mauve lipstick with subtle cool undertones. It has a natural sheen finish.
- It’s part of NARS’ permanent Sheer Lipstick line, which retails for $26 USD for 0.12 oz.
- The formula is described as lightly emollient with medium, buildable pigmentation. It applies evenly and doesn’t sink into lip lines.
- Multiple reviewers describe it as hydrating and comfortable to wear. It has an average wear time of 3-4 hours.
Customers have generally positive reviews about Damage Lipstick by NARS Cosmetics. They describe it as a buildable lip color. It isn’t drying, but it also isn’t super moisturizing. The wear time is about 4 hours on average.
The shade is described as a very nice grape. The lipstick is described as a slightly cool-toned, medium-dark mauve. It has a cream finish.
Some customers have noted that it’s not particularly hydrating. But, it’s not drying either. The lipstick is also scent- and taste-free.
One reviewer mentioned that it’s a good everyday shade as it’s extremely wearable. Another reviewer praised the lipstick for its soft berry shade.
It instantly brightens up the face and suits most skin tones, especially Indian ones. However, the lipstick does transfer moderately to cups and cutlery. The product has a 4.6 rating out of 5, with 78% of reviewers recommending it.
Here’s what real customers have to say about NARS Damage:
“I absolutely love the NARS Damage lipstick shade! It’s the perfect “my lips but better” color for me. In the tube, the lipstick looks very dark, but it applies as a beautiful mauve-plum hue with just one swipe. I can also build up the color to be a rich, dark plum berry if I want a bolder look. The lipstick isn’t overly drying, which I appreciate. While the staying power is decent, it’s not amazing and needs occasional touch ups. Even so, I’ve already finished two entire tubes. I continue to repurchase NARS Damage because it’s such a versatile, everyday shade. It complements my complexion so well. I would definitely recommend giving this lipstick a try!”
jujubeeb
“I tend to avoid mauve and plum lipstick shades because they can sometimes make me look older or washed out. But I do love a good sheer lipstick finish, and find that the right finish can actually make these colors work for me. So when I tried the new NARS Damage lipstick, I was pleasantly surprised. The lipstick looks very dark in the tube, but goes on my lips sheer. It’s a cool-toned mauve plum that ends up being flattering instead of aging. The hint of color is perfect for my fair skin tone. And I like that I can build it up for a bolder look too. Even though the staying power isn’t amazing, the formula isn’t drying, which is a must for me. Overall, I’d recommend giving Damage a try, especially if you usually shy away from dusty mauves like I do. The sheer finish just might change your mind!”
Larie
“This NARS Damage lipstick is the best I’ve ever bought. Its price is reasonable. My number one favorite thing about Damage is that the color is so buildable. It allows me to achieve a natural, “my lips but better” look. I also love that the formula has absolutely no scent or taste, which is a total bonus. With just one sheer layer, I get a flattering mauve plum hue. It livens up my face without being overpowering. And I can intensify the color as much as I want by adding more coats. The lipstick isn’t excessively drying either. However, it could have a bit better staying power. Overall, I’m blown away by the quality and versatility of this lipstick. I’d tell anyone looking for their perfect MLBB shade to give Damage a try!”
Rainier Emerick
Frequently Asked Questions About NARS Damage
Is Damage drying?
With its creamy vitamin E formula, Damage is quite moisturizing on the lips. But priming with balm and avoiding excessive blotting can prevent any dryness.
Does Damage bleed or feather?
It has minimal bleeding or feathering, especially when applied over lip liner to lock it in place. Its semi-matte finish keeps Damage put.
How often do I need to reapply Damage?
With proper application, Damage lasts 4-6 hours before needing a touch up. Carry it with you to refresh color as needed.
Can I wear Damage during daytime?
Absolutely! Damage makes a chic statement for day. Sheer it out or pair it with minimal eye makeup for a more wearable look.
Conclusion
NARS Damage has earned its reputation as one of the most iconic blue-red lipsticks. Damage continues to be a top-selling lipstick for NARS. It has rich pigment, creamy comfort, and bold color payoff.
Follow the tips above to make Damage your new go-to red. This versatile, head-turning lipstick is sure to become a fast favorite. It’s truly damage-worthy!
