Revlon has earned my post when it comes to affordable matte lipsticks, and the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in 205 Elusive is just one of the many reasons why. This one offers a matte finish with a creamy formula that supposedly feels as comfortable as it is pigmented. A full on review of the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Elusive — the color, the formula, wearability and why it has been so popular!
I have never heard of a lip balm with a matte finish. So when I read about this Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm, I immediately went to the nearest beauty store (PCX – Personal Care Exchange) and bought my first ever matte balm in shade Elusive (205).
I was really excited to try it out because I love matte lipsticks but most tend to dry out my almost-always dry lips, that it’s a must for me to apply lip balm first before applying a matte lipstick. But this step kind of ruins the matte effect on my lips.
What Revlon says about it: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm 205 Elusive
Vibrant colors infused with a Triple Butter Complex give you a bold, beautiful lip. It’s a burst of matte color with a balm-like feel. Go bold and get moisturized in 10 crave able, collectible shades. It is packaged in a retractable chubby crayon, much like the Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm, so no sharpening is required. Because of this, no product is wasted, unlike with Nars Lip Pencils.
The Shade: 205 Elusive
Shade 205 Elusive is a lovely medium pink with a coolish, somewhat muted rosy undertone. A pink that is practical and can be worn through day or night. Its an beautiful pop of natural pink on lighter skin tones, while on deeper skin tones it provides a softer visible rosy tint. This is a versatile shade for an array of occasions, from the boardroom to weekend brunch.
I bought it for $11.81 from PCX, and although it’s not pricey, I still think that I wasted my money on this one. But you can buy it here online from Amazon.
From my arm swatch below, you can see that it’s a medium pink with yellow undertones. I think that the color and the packaging are the only things that I’ve appreciated with this product.
It has a velvety matte finish and it has that peppermint-y taste and smell like their Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain. It feels minty cool on the lips when applied, but it doesn’t moisturize my lips like a regular lip balm does.
Formula and Texture: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm 205 Elusive
Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm has a cream Soviet consistency but is very,very light. With a balm-like base, it glides on comfortably and avoids that dry, heavy finish most matte lipsticks tend to take on. It applies really smoothly and deposits very nice pigment without tugging the lips. Although this product provides a sort of balm-like feel, it also gives a matte finish that comes across as high-end and refined.
Infused with hydrating ingredients such as shea, mango and coconut butter. This is what makes it a more comfortable option than your typical mattes, helping to sidestep that dryness you so fear. The product also smells of cool peppermint and delivers a mild tingling sensation on the lips — a nice touch for mint fans.
Color and texture comparisons from L-R: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Elusive, Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Lipsticks in Sky Pink and Stormy Pink. (Photo above)
Application and Wear: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm 205 Elusive
As a chubby crayon, the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm is easy to apply. The crayon tip allows for precision to apply directly onto lips without lining first and it’s retractable, so sharpening isn’t required.
As for longevity, the balm isn’t totally transfer-proof, so it might need a little reapplication after eating or drinking. But it holds up for quite a few hours at least if you are not eating something oily. When it fades, it’s very consistent and gradual so there’s no spotting or need for constant application.
For example, while it is a matte balm, it does not wear like a conventional matte lipstick in terms of sheer long-lasting power. I found it to be a good compromise between comfort and durability (for something you would wear every day). It is also pretty easy to re-apply and the product builds up nicely without any caking.
Pros and Cons: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm 205 Elusive
Does the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm have a scent?
Yes, this matte balm has a mild peppermint scent and provides a slight tingling sensation upon application, thanks to the peppermint oil.
How does the Colorburst Matte Balm compare to other matte lipsticks?
Compared to traditional matte lipsticks, this balm is more hydrating and lightweight. While it may not have the same longevity or full matte effect as a liquid matte lipstick, it provides a comfortable, wearable matte finish ideal for everyday use.
Does this matte balm dry out the lips?
No, the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm is formulated with moisturizing ingredients like shea, mango, and coconut butter, which help keep lips hydrated and comfortable even with the matte finish. It’s much more comfortable for prolonged wear compared to typical matte formulas.
Final verdict
If you’re in search for an easy to wear everyday pink that balances comfort and style well the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm finished in shade 205 Elusive is a great alternative too. Ideal if you love a matte finish but have dry lips, its balm formula makes it super hydrating for a matte product. Though not as long-wearing as a truly premium, creamy matte lipstick would be, its application and luxe cushion feel render it more than deserving of a spot in any beauty bag.
Overall, the Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in Elusive is a redness lip color and perfect matte lipstick that is well worth the price. Perfect for everyone from make-up addicts to just a,making them going anywhere, and worth the try!
This is one of the products that I definitely would NOT repurchase. For me, it isn’t worth the price. As always, if you have any questions or experiences with this product, or any feedback, whether good or bad, please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
While it offers a matte finish, the balm formula gives it a softer feel compared to traditional matte lipsticks. This product is a “matte balm,” meaning it provides a smooth matte look with added moisture.
The wear time is around 3–4 hours with minimal eating or drinking. However, since it’s not fully transfer-proof, it may need reapplication after meals or drinks.
Yes, this product is not completely transfer-proof, so some color may transfer onto cups or utensils. However, it fades gradually and evenly, so it’s easy to reapply as needed.
Shade 205 Elusive is a medium pink with cool, rosy undertones, making it flattering on a range of skin tones. On lighter skin, it appears as a soft but noticeable pink, while on deeper skin tones, it offers a subtle tint.
Yes, you can pair it with a lip liner for a more defined look, though the crayon-style applicator offers enough precision for most users.
Application is simple. Use the crayon tip to outline and fill in the lips directly. The twist-up design means no sharpening is needed.
Revlon has made strides toward cruelty-free policies, but it’s best to check Revlon’s official stance on cruelty-free certification for the latest updates.
