If there will be one shade of lipstick that almost all girls have in their makeup stash, that would be red. My first ever red lipstick as far as my memory serves me right, is my Shu Uemura Mon Shu Red which was an impulse buy during their event at ATC. I like it but it’s not the perfect shade of red for me.
MAC Viva Glam I | P1,000.00 (approx. $23.25) at MAC, Rustans
Yes, you got it, it’s way too expensive here in our country since this is being sold in the US for $16.00 only I believe.
I first encountered this lipstick from Ms. Martha of The Beauty Junkee (you can read her review here) way back August 2012 and promised myself that it’s going to be my first ever MAC lipstick. However, I wasn’t able to carry out because I got MAC Lickable from a friend last year, so Viva Glam 1 goes to the second spot. Thank you my dearest boyfriend for le Valentine’s gift ^_^
I never really thought that I will like this lipstick that much because the main reason why I want to purchase MAC Viva Glam 1 is to contribute to the MAC Aids Fund Campaign. Every cent of the selling price of this lipstick and lipglass goes to the campaign. So happy to know that Rihanna is their newest spokesperson and yes, I’m eyeing on her lipstick or lipglass next.
Packaging is the same with the regular MAC lipsticks, it just have the logo and the retractable case in red.
The shade is a rich, deep red with brown undertone in matte finish. Surprisingly, even if it’s matte, it doesn’t dry out my lips that much compared to my Wet n’ Wild lipsticks that make my lips like I’m traveling in Sahara.
Swatches (1x, 2x, 3x, respectively)
As expected, it’s really opaque and pigmented. Two swipes, I’m already good with it.
It is what I wore during the BDJ Social event where I was complimented by my friends that I’m blooming these days *laughs* Well, thanks for the lipstick! 
I also noticed that it makes my teeth look hella lot whiter. My teeth are not white at all because of my braces but look at that photo! It’s also brightens my complexion, love it! This is the kind of red that you can wear the entire day, morning to evening look. If you’re working in an office or attending meetings, this shade is perfect for you as well.
Fun Fact:
The first time I used it, I skipped lip liner but I don’t know if it’s just on me, it kinda bled on my lips and I was like “OHH MYY GAWD!” So I hurriedly removed it with my lip and eye makeup remover, applied lip liner but my lips looked freakin’ dry! I removed it again, exfoliated my lips then apply lip liner followed by the lipstick. I’m saved! HAHA!
Lesson: Always exfoliate your lips and make sure it’s moisturized well before using matte lipstick. If you’ll be wearing red, a lip liner will be a great help.
Overall, I really like this lipstick. I have a number of red ones in my drawer but this is what I currently look for every time I feel like wearing red lips. It’s matte but doesn’t really make my lips look chapped and dehydrated even after long hours of wearing. I don’t retouch the entire day if without eating or drinking. Another great thing about MAC Viva Glam 1, you get to enjoy it while helping others 
What’s your perfect red lipstick?
