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 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