The Kosas Impressionist Multistick has quickly become a staple in the world of cream blush and lip-and-cheek sticks, praised for its dewy finish and effortless blendability. This review digs into the formula, shade range, packaging, and overall performance to help you decide if it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.
What is the Kosas Impressionist Multistick?
The Kosas Impressionist Multistick is a multi-use cream color stick designed for cheeks and lips. It's part of Kosas' Impressionist collection, inspired by the art movement's soft-focus, painterly aesthetic. The stick aims to deliver a natural, skin-like flush with a dewy, non-sticky finish.
According to the brand, the formula is infused with skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and squalane, which help to nourish while providing color. It's also vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with Kosas' clean beauty ethos.
First Impressions and Packaging
The Multistick comes in a sleek, minimalist tube with a twist-up mechanism. The packaging is compact and travel-friendly, easily slipping into a purse or pocket. The twist-up design ensures no product waste, and the cap clicks securely to prevent leaks or mess.
The stick itself is smooth and glides on effortlessly. It has a balmy texture that feels comfortable on the skin, not waxy or dry. The color payoff is impressive—one swipe delivers a visible tint, but it's buildable for a more intense look.
Shade Range and Pigmentation
Kosas offers the Impressionist Multistick in a range of shades, from soft nudes to vibrant berries. The shades are designed to complement a variety of skin tones, with options like 'Impulse' (a warm peach), 'Innocence' (a soft rose), and 'Passion' (a deep berry). Each shade is formulated to provide a sheer-to-medium coverage that can be layered.
In testing, the pigmentation was consistent across shades. The lighter shades offer a subtle wash of color, while the deeper shades provide more impact. The formula blends easily with fingers or a brush, making it foolproof for beginners.
Performance on Cheeks and Lips
On the cheeks, the Multistick applies smoothly and blends out to a natural, lit-from-within glow. It sets down to a dewy finish that lasts for several hours without fading or settling into pores. For a longer wear, setting with a powder blush can help, but the stick performs well on its own.
On the lips, it acts more like a tinted balm, providing hydration and a hint of color. It's not long-wearing like a lipstick, but it's perfect for a quick, low-maintenance pop of color. The formula is comfortable and doesn't dry out the lips.
Travel-Friendly and Versatile
One of the standout features is its versatility. It's a two-in-one product that saves space in a travel bag. The compact size meets airline carry-on regulations, making it an ideal companion for trips. Whether you're heading to work or on vacation, this stick simplifies your routine.
Moreover, the cream formula is forgiving and easy to apply without a mirror, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. It's also great for those who prefer a more natural, no-makeup makeup look.
Value for Money
Priced at around £24, the Kosas Impressionist Multistick is mid-range. Given that it replaces both a blush and a lip product, it offers good value. The quality and performance justify the price, especially for those who appreciate clean, multi-functional makeup.
Compared to other cream blushes on the market, it holds its own. The formula is comparable to high-end brands but at a slightly more accessible price point. For those looking to invest in a reliable, everyday product, this is a solid choice.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Dewy, natural finish; easy to blend; travel-friendly; versatile (cheeks and lips); clean ingredients; vegan and cruelty-free.
- Cons: Not long-wearing on lips; limited shade range for deeper skin tones; may require touch-ups throughout the day.
Final Verdict
The Kosas Impressionist Multistick is a worthy addition to any makeup collection. Its creamy, blendable formula and flattering shades make it a favorite among beauty enthusiasts. While it may not be the most long-lasting lip product, its versatility and skin-loving ingredients more than compensate.
If you're in the market for a reliable cream blush that also works as a lip tint, this is a top contender. It simplifies your beauty routine without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
