MAC Lipstick in Brave Red

My cousin from Canada came home two weeks ago for vacation. His mom sent me this red MAC lipstick through him. Thanks for the thoughtful gift Ninang Lisa! :) This is my first red lipstick from the brand since I always go for the safest colors whenever I purchase one because of the hefty price. I cannot risk an unflattering color for 1,000 pesos you know. This is the first Cremesheen formulation that I've tried as well. I've read about it online but I still went for the mattes and the amplified formulation since I doubted the longevity of the Cremesheens.

I honestly haven't heard of this specific red shade from MAC. I don't think it was ever available here in the Philippines because I can't search any review for it here. When it comes to red MAC lipsticks, the trending ones are Russian Red and Ruby Woo. 

The packaging is printed in Canada, notice the font of the sticker underneath. It's because MAC Canada recycles lipstick tubes. My aunt is asking for empty MAC tubes from us because they can exchange five empty tubes for a new MAC lipstick of your choice. How awesome! I wish they'd do that here too.

SWATCH: MAC Lipstick in Brave Red

MAC Brave Red is a medium-toned shade of red that is wearable without being too loud. The finish have a slight sheen that makes it easy to apply and adds a bit of gloss to the overall effect. You don't have to wear a lip balm underneath to ease application because it's already creamy. Longevity is also great. It lasts a good 3 to 5 hours without eating and even leaves a good stain when you eat or drink.

LIP SWATCH: MAC Lipstick in Brave Red

The only thing that bothers me though is how to get another tube when I ran out. For now, I just have to limit my usage and just save it for special occasions because it's not available here. :(

Overall, MAC Brave Red is a great substitute for MAC Russian Red and MAC Ruby Woo if you're not a fan of mattes. It has the same color payoff without worrying about having dry lips after wearing. I am totally loving the Cremesheen formulation right now. 

Thanks again Ninang Lisa for this lipstick!! Regards to Ninong Gerry and Ate Rysa as well. See you soon! :)