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Shiseido Lacquer Gloss Review, Photos, Swatches

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lacquer Gloss ($25.00 for 0.25 fl. oz.) is a new formula that’s described as having “vivid clear color” and “profound moisture,” while the applicator is supposed to enable you to apply with “no streaks.” I bought two shades, opting for the violet-color (because I’m always on the hunt for a delectable purple gloss) and a red (figuring it would be most likely to perform the best) — I try to pick shades that might work well and horribly, if I don’t have the whole range to test, to get some idea about overall performance. The gloss is lightweight, non-sticky with a hybrid cream-gel consistency– a rather emollient feel on the lips–and nicely hydrating. While the wear time varied for me between the two shades, but it was a little longer than the average gloss. The gloss had no discernible scent or taste. The price point, quantity, and overall quality make this a worthwhile formula to check out!

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss ($25.00 for 0.25 fl. oz.) is described as a “violet with multi-coloured pearls.” It’s a medium lavender-purple with soft, cool undertones and a multi-colored, fine shimmer. It had semi-opaque color coverage, where the gloss noticeably changed the natural lip color but still enabled some of it to come through, so your natural lip color will influence the ultimate result (particularly any undertones). It applied evenly for the most part, but there was room for improvement. This shade wore well for four and a half hours. NARS Annees (P, $26.00) appears more similar when swatched (but has no shimmer), but applied, it is much lighter. MAC Cinestyle (LE, $20.00) is cooler-toned, milkier, no shimmer. See comparison swatches.

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss ($25.00 for 0.25 fl. oz.) is described as a “blood red.” It’s a brightened, medium orange-red with warm undertones and a very, very fine white shimmer (I didn’t even notice it when I looked in the mirror–only in the close-up photos is it apparent). It ha mostly opaque pigmentation with a little translucency to keep it from looking heavy or like a liquid lipstick. This shade wore well for five and a half hours on me. Laura Mercier Poppy (P, $25.00) is redder, less shimmery. Illamasqua Touch (P, $22.00) is redder, more shimmery. Maybelline Signature Scarlet (020) (P, $8.99) is less warm-toned, less shimmery. Revlon Fire (P, $7.49) is slightly darker. NARS Hollywoodlawn (LE, $26.00) is more muted, darker. Chanel Exces (P, $32.00) is less warm-toned. MAC Knockout (LE, $15.00) is a touch more muted. MAC Ablaze (LE, $15.00) is lighter. See comparison swatches.

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Nebula (VI207) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss
Shiseido Lust (RD305) Lacquer Gloss

Makeup Look
On face:
  • Guerlain Parure de Lumiere Foundation
  • Guerlain Les Voilettes Pressed Powder
  • Revlon Mauvelous Blush
On eyes:
  • Givenchy Beige Mousseline
  • Taupe Velours
  • Kaki Brocart Ombre Couture Eyeshadows
  • Urban Decay Scorch Eyeliner

63 Comments

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Lydia Avatar

“Nebula” is really a perfect name for that first shade!! It’s not one I would usually be drawn to – lavender shades tend to look washed out with my warm coloring – but it looks soooo beautiful on you! There’s something very ethereal and magical about it. LOVE.

Christina Avatar

Ooh, Nebula is pretty! I, too, am constantly on the hunt for soft and delicate shades of purple gloss. I don’t know why! I like Korres Crocus, as well, but this one looks even prettier due to the shimmer.

CeeBee Avatar

I really like Shiseido lip products but I’m going to have to skip these because I just bought 7 of the new Milani ones… Nebula looks so pretty in the tube~!

Haley Avatar

I’ve been lusting after a purple lipstick or lipgloss but I’m worried it would look horrible on me, but I think I might try Nebula, since it’s sheer…

Jade Avatar

Wow – like everyone else, I wasn’t expecting to like Nebula but I really do!! I think it could look really nice on me when I’m at my fairest during winter – I actually love the change in my complexion, it didn’t happen last year though 🙁 need to spend more time inside haha!!

jay Avatar

how does nebula compare to mac perky?
theres also another lilac-y color in this new line,will u be purchasing for review?
im on the hunt for mac perky dupes since it was limited edition lol

Erica Avatar

Hey Christine, would you consider testing Shiseido Lacquer Gloss in Plum Wine? I saw some good reviews on the net, and also, looking at the swatches, I believe it would look perfect on you!

Ziggy Avatar

I love this gloss! My lips are pigmented, but I can still see the purple. I pair it with L’Oreal Collection Prive by Freida in Nude, and it really enhances the purple hue. If you love purple, this a great addition to your collection.

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