Another Back to MAC Success: 6 Empties for a Heroine!

Hi, everyone! There comes a time every several months or so when I rush off to the MAC store with an extra spring in my step. While the thrill of an upcoming purchase is enough to quicken my pace, the promise of a free lipstick nearly prompts a sprint! The rush-inducing event I'm describing is the opportunity to take advantage of a Back to MAC exchange. This incredible recycling program allows you to trade in 6 empty MAC products for a free (free!) lipstick or eye shadow of your choice. Not only are you promoting an ecologically-friendly initiative, you get to leave the store with a complimentary product of your choice. It's a true win-win!

With the excitement of having 6 empties in hand comes the burden of selecting your free shade. In the past, I've embarked on weeks-long research campaigns where I pour over swatches and reviews in hopes of finding the one. This time, I took more of a carefree approach, simply swatching shades that called to me in-store. I was eager to check out the newly released Matte Lipstick offerings, and when I swiped on the hugely hyped Heroine, I knew I'd met my match. 

MAC's Matte Lipsticks come packaged in their trademark black packaging and black bullet-like tubes. Heroine's bold name is certainly matched by its eye-popping hue. MAC labels Heroine as a "bright purple" and I'd say that's a pretty apt description! I find Heroine neither too warm nor cool, with a perfect balance of pink and blue tones. There are some slight pinky undertones that make the shade surprisingly wearable, yet this is by no means a fuchsia or magenta. It's truly purple! 

After bringing Heroine home, I was slightly concerned that, despite its uniqueness, it might be too similar to the other purple-toned lipsticks in my collection. Upon swatching it alongside these shades, however, my fears were calmed. It really does stand alone!

Here it is, swiped between MAC Rebel, Lime Crime Velvetine in Utopia, and MAC Up the Amp lipstick. As you can see, Rebel has much stronger berry tones, Utopia is decidedly pinker, and Up the Amp is a paler, warmer-toned purple. 

And here are a couple shots of me wearing Heroine, paired with otherwise understated makeup as to let it take center stage!

As you can see, the finish is matte, but not flat. The slight sheen makes it surprisingly flattering and wearable. Overall, I am thrilled to add Heroine to my collection of "slightly out there, yet do-able" lipsticks. It definitely makes a statement, yet still manages to brighten the face and provide the perfect pop of colour. And that fact that I scored it for free makes me feel like a bit of a heroine myself :)

What did you score in your last Back to MAC trade? Is Heroine a shade you would opt for?

Thanks for dropping by! xo