Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick

Cargo Cosmetics lipsticks are renowned for their highly-pigmented, long-lasting formulas and shade range. But with so many options, how do you choose your perfect lippie? This complete buying guide takes you through everything you need to know – from finish and texture to shades and pricing – to find your new signature Cargo lipstick.

Cargo Cosmetics burst onto the beauty scene back in 1997 with their innovative, easy-to-use products housed in utilitarian-chic black and silver packaging. Now a cult-favorite brand, Cargo is especially beloved for their lipsticks. These lippies check all the boxes: luscious color, comfortable feel, and fuss-free application.

What is Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick?

Cargo lipsticks come in a variety of finishes, from creamy satins to bold mattes. The brand uses high-performance pigments to deliver saturated, opaque color in just one swipe. Many of the shades are long-wearing, kissing off evenly and gracefully as you eat and drink, with little fading in the center of lips. Cargo lipsticks are enriched with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and avocado oil to keep lips soft and supple. With both trendy and wearable shades, there’s a Cargo lippie for every style and mood.

What Shades Are Available in Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks?

With around 100 shades across various lipstick lines, Cargo’s color selection is extensive. You’ll find every finish and hue you could want.

Cargo Classic Lip Color: These satiny lipsticks contain nourishing natural oils for a soft, lightweight feel. The 34 shades run the gamut from MLBB (my lips but better) rosy neutrals to vampy berries and corals. Popular hues include Laguna (beige nude), Provence (rosy mauve), Capri (peachy pink), and Prague (earthy plum).

Cargo Color Stick: Offering precise application thanks to a delectably chubby twist-up tube, these semi-matte, intensely pigmented lip crayons pack some serious color payoff. With 12 shades, mostly in the pink/nude family, Delhi (cinnamon nude) and Anguilla (petal pink) are safe go-to’s. For something bolder, go for Sydney (deep berry).

Liquid Lipstick: This liquid-to-matte formula delivers a soft, cushiony feel despite its intense matte finish. The lineup covers both neutrals like Sante Fe (muted beige) and Amsterdam (warm tan) along with vampy shades like Dubai (blackened oxblood) and Paris (deep wine).

Swimmables Lip Color: Formulated to stay put through dips in the pool, these vivid semi-matte lippies contain marine botanicals to hydrate lips. With beach-friendly brights like Hawaii (poppy coral) and St. Tropez (fiery red), this is a summer essential.

Are Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks Long-Lasting?

Many Cargo lipsticks promise extended wear, with colors remaining vivid for hours. The Swimmables Lip Color clings to lips through swimming, eating, and drinking. The matte Color Stick lip crayons deliver concentrated pigment that doesn’t fade or feather. And the Liquid Lipstick’s transfer-resistant formula sets after application and won’t slip around during the day. For creamy lipsticks with staying power, go for the Classic Lip Color – many report the color wearing evenly for 4-5 hours or more.

Is Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Cruelty-Free?

Yes, Cargo does not test on animals! All their products are cruelty-free, vegan, and gluten-free. The brand avoids harsh chemicals and instead relies on natural, skin-friendly ingredients like plant oils and butters. Their approach is gentle yet effective.

Are Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks Matte or Glossy?

Cargo offers both matte and creamy finishes:

• Matte: Color Stick Lip Crayon, Liquid Lipstick, and Swimmables Lip Color all deliver a soft matte look with intense color saturation.
• Creamy/Satin: The Classic Lip Color has a glossy satin finish that feels cushiony on the lips. Stay Velvet Lip Stay imparts mega-watt shine and hydration. Vivid Lip Color provides a satiny, luminous finish.

No matter your preferred texture, Cargo has a lipstick to match. Play with finishes – pair a creamy lip color with soft definition from a matte lip liner, or layer a shimmery gloss atop a matte lip for dimension.

Where Can I Buy Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick?

You can purchase Cargo Cosmetics lipsticks from:

• The Cargo Cosmetics website, where you’ll find the full lip color lineup along with value sets and limited edition shades.
• Sephora: This lipstick mecca stocks the core Cargo lip shades and bestsellers.
• Ulta: Find a wide selection of Cargo lipsticks and lip crayons here. Ulta also carries limited edition collections.
• Macy’s: The department store offers the major Cargo lip color lines.
• Amazon: Search Amazon for deals on individual Cargo lipsticks and multi-shade kits.
• Select specialty beauty stores like Bluemercury also retail Cargo. Check your local mall!

How Much Does Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Cost?

Cargo lipsticks range from $22-$28 per tube. Specific pricing includes:

• Classic Lip Color: $22
• Liquid Lipstick: $22
• Color Stick Lip Crayon: $28
• Vivid Lip Color (metallic): $24
• Swimmables Lip Color: $22
• Lip Gloss: $22
• Stay Velvet Lip Color: $26

On average, expect to pay around $24 for a Cargo lipstick. Look out for value sets – they often include 2 or more full-size lipsticks for $35-40, lowering the per-item cost. Cargo also offers free shipping on U.S. orders over $50.

Are Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks Vegan-Friendly?

Yes, Cargo formulates all their lipsticks and cosmetics without animal-derived ingredients, so vegans can confidently wear Cargo lip colors. The lipsticks are also gluten-free. The luxe formulas rely on skin-loving plant oils and butters instead of harsh chemicals.

What Are the Ingredients in Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick?

While formulas vary slightly between finishes, you’ll typically find these moisturizing, anti-aging ingredients:

• Shea butter: Deeply hydrates and smooths lips.
• Sunflower seed oil: Provides essential fatty acids to condition lips.
• Avocado oil: Softens and protects with vitamins A, D, and E.
• Vitamin E: Improves moisture retention and lip texture.
• Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin’s natural oils to add cushiony softness.

Other plumping and smoothing ingredients like peptides and sodium hyaluronate boost the nourishing base. The high-impact pigments provide rich, opaque color.

Does Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Provide Hydration for Lips?

Absolutely! Nourishing oils and butters impart moisture alongside the concentrated pigment. Reviewers rave about how the lipsticks glide on smoothly and comfortably without dragging. The creamy texture helps lips look plump and hydrated, not dried out.

For extra hydration, try the Stay Velvet Lip Color. The whipped gel formula contains glycerin and collagen to deeply moisturize for a soft, cushiony pout. Or layer your lipstick with Cargo’s hydrating Lip Gloss for a moisturizing top coat.

How Do I Apply Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick for the Best Results?

Follow these pro tips for flawless application:

• Exfoliate with a soft lip scrub to smooth and plump lips.
• Moisturize with a hydrating balm or oil to prep lips. Let it absorb before applying lipstick.
• Line lips with a matching or neutral liner to prevent feathering. Cargo’s Color Stick crayons work great.
• For satin lipsticks, apply color straight from the bullet, pressing into lips and blotting to build coverage.
• For liquid lipsticks, use the applicator to line and fill in lips with even, thin layers. Let dry between passes.
• Blot on a tissue to set the color and remove excess before reapplying.
• Touch up after eating/drinking by patting on color with your finger rather than swiping to avoid removing the base layer.

Are Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks Suitable for Sensitive Skin?

Cargo lipsticks are formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, or synthetic dyes – ingredients that commonly irritate sensitive skin. The nourishing plant oils and butters provide a soothing base for the pigment. Those with sensitivities report very little to no irritation, although it’s always smart to do a patch test first. Stick to creamier finishes which deposit less pigment at once over liquid mattes.

What Do Customer Reviews Say About Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks?

Cargo lipsticks earn glowing reviews for their intensely saturated color, lightweight moisturizing feel, and extended wear. Customers call them out for being ultra-pigmented and comfortable with a flattering satin finish. The easy twist-up packaging also draws praise for convenience.

The most common positives include rich color payoff, a hydrating feel that doesn’t dry out lips, and long-lasting wear that fades evenly. Shoppers recommend buying multiple shades since the quality is hard to beat. Any complaints relate to the shades pulling more brown or purple than expected online – suggesting you view lip swatches first to get the true color.

How Does Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Compare to Other Lipstick Brands?

Vs. MAC: Cargo offers similar pigmentation at a lower price point. The natural ingredients make it ideal for sensitive lips compared to MAC.

Vs. Sephora Collection: With its prestige quality at a drugstore price, Cargo delivers more vibrant color and lasting power than Sephora Collection lipsticks.

Vs. Revlon: While Revlon has a huge color range, Cargo’s luxe formulas blend and wear more evenly. The moisturizing oils make application more comfortable.

Vs. NARS: Cargo comes very close to NARS creamy, opaque color while costing around 60% less. Great for anyone on a budget!

Vs. Dior: Dior has prestige appeal, but testers report Cargo being just as bold, smooth, and comfortable at a fraction of the cost.

Does Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Smudge Easily?

Some finishes offer better smudge-resistance than others. For transfer-proof wear, try these:

• Liquid Lipstick: The thin, matte liquid formula sets and won’t budge. One coat gives full opacity.
• Color Stick: These chubby crayons deliver intense matte pigment that adheres well to lips.
• Swimmables Lip Color: Designed to withstand water, these lippies stay put through swimming, eating, and drinking.

The creamy Classic Lip Color will transfer more easily but wears off gradually and evenly as you eat and drink. Touch ups are easy. With any formula, priming and lining lips first will help prevent smudging and feathering.

Are There Any Limited Edition Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Shades?

Cargo frequently releases limited edition collections that offer unique lip colors you can’t find in their core lineup. Recent examples include:

• HD Picture Perfect Collection: Creamy bold berry and red shades.
• Summer in the Vineyard: Shimmering wines, corals, and nudes.
• Lake Tahoe Fall/Winter Collection: Deeper plums, bricks, berries and metallics.

Check the Cargo site and sign up for emails to stay on top of seasonal collections. Often they’ll showcase on-trend hues or vino-inspired shades that make great statement lipsticks. The limited edition packaging is also collectible for beauty fans.

Is Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Lightweight on the Lips?

Reviewers say Cargo lipsticks feel incredibly lightweight, with buttery textures that hug lips comfortably. The Classic Lip Color glides on with a barely-there feel thanks to moisture-binding oils like jojoba and avocado. The Stay Velvet Lip Color contains glycerin for an extra cushiony, velvety finish. Even the matte liquid lipsticks contain marine botanicals that impart softness and hydration. No matter the formula, Cargo lipsticks are made to wear as lightly as possible.

How Pigmented Are Cargo Cosmetics Lipsticks?

Intense, concentrated pigments make Cargo lipsticks stand out – most shades deliver opaque coverage with one coat. Their proprietary t-oxide complex helps the rich colors adhere evenly to lips without dragging or skipping. The bold, saturated hues truly last. For especially dense color, go for the Color Stick crayons or matte Liquid Lipsticks. But even the creamiest satins pack serious punch.

Can Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick Be Used With a Lip Liner?

Absolutely! In fact, lip liner helps you get the most flawless application from Cargo lipsticks. Try these pro tips:

• Define lips with liner for cleaner edges.
• Color match your lipstick and liner for polished dimension.
• Use a neutral liner under bold lips to prevent feathering and bleeding.
• Tap liner color over lipstick to set it and increase longevity.
• Apply liner after lipstick to touch up fading edges.

Lip crayons like the Color Stick contain liner and lipstick in one easy tube. Or pair a creamy lipstick with Cargo’s dual-ended lip pencils for built-in definition.

What is the Best Cargo Cosmetics Lipstick for Everyday Wear?

For an everyday lipstick you can throw on and go, consider these flattering, versatile Cargo shades:

• Laguna (nude beige): The perfect your-lips-but-better neutral.
• Provence (rosy mauve): An easy-to-wear pinky nude that works on most skin tones.
• Capri (peachy pink): Right on trend, this lively bright perks up any look.
• Prague (earthy plum): An understated neutral-based purple for some subtle drama.
• Anguilla (petal pink): This Color Stick crayon delivers soft, blendable color.

Go for a creamy Classic Lip Color or hydrating Stay Velvet formula. Apply once in the morning for effortless 9-to-5 polish.

The Bottom Line

With intense color payoff, nourishing ingredients, and extended comfort, Cargo Cosmetics lipsticks make it easy to find your signature shade. This comprehensive buying guide breaks down their impressive selection. Keep it handy while browsing colors to find the perfect lip for you!