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Discovering a High Street Hidden Gem
Kiko Milano was a brand that I had never really looked into until a recent haul, mostly because they can be a bit tricky to track down on the high street. Since there isn’t a physical store anywhere near me, I had to take a gamble and order online. Spoiler alert: it was a gamble that paid off massively, and it introduced me to what might just be the most perfect formula under £10.
Finding the perfect nude lipstick is a lifetime mission. You want something that balances warmth without looking orange, gives enough colour so you don’t look washed out, and feels comfortable enough to wear during a long day at work or running errands.
Enter the Kiko Milano Smart Fusion Lipstick in 404 Rosy Biscuit.
If you are currently hunting for a brilliant, budget-friendly formula that keeps your lips hydrated, let’s dive straight into the full review of this stunning affordable everyday nude lipstick.
The Colour & Pigment
Rosy Biscuit is a gorgeous, warm peachy nude with beautiful soft brown undertones. While it might not be the most ground-breaking or wild colour in the world, it is a timeless, classic nude that works effortlessly for daily wear.
The payoff is seriously impressive. It is incredibly pigmented, allowing you to build up full, opaque color in just two quick swipes. Even though it is rich and creamy, it layers beautifully and never feels heavy or thick on the lips, no matter how much you apply.
The Scent & Finish
There is a sweet scent to these lipsticks, and to me, it smells exactly like the iconic vanilla scent of MAC lipsticks. It isn’t overpowering at all, but it is definitely there. Personally, I absolutely love it and think it’s a lovely luxury touch for such an inexpensive product.
Texture wise, this is a traditional cream finish. If you are still fully dedicated to the matte lip trend, this won’t be the formula for you. It glides onto the lips seamlessly without a single bit of tugging or skipping. Because it’s so creamy, it feels deeply nourishing and comfortable rather than dry, making it the perfect choice for dry lips.
The Lasting Power
Because the formula is so intensely moisturising, the longevity isn’t the best. While matte liquid lipsticks can lock down for the majority of the day, a hydrating cream formula naturally transfers more.
I generally get about four hours of wear out of Rosy Biscuit before needing a touch-up. It will come off when you eat or drink. However, because it glides on so effortlessly, reapplying it on the go is a total breeze.
The Packaging & Price
The packaging is a sleek, minimalist matte black tube with Kiko Milano cleanly printed on the side. I love the simple look, and the color-coded shade sticker on the bottom is incredibly handy. My only minor critique is that the shade name “Rosy Biscuit” isn’t printed anywhere on the tube, only the number 404. It can make things a little confusing when you are trying to recommend it to friends online, but it’s a tiny flaw in an otherwise great design.
At just £6.49, the value for money here is absolutely unbeatable. At that price point, I am not bothered by having to reapply it after eating. It outperforms lipsticks triple its price.
The Swatch
Here is an unedited look at the true colour of Kiko 404 Rosy Biscuit swatched on the skin:
As you can see, it has that beautiful, flattering balance of peach and soft rose-brown that mimics the natural tone of your lips perfectly.
The Final Verdict
If you are looking to expand your collection with an affordable everyday nude lipstick that keeps your lips feeling soft and looking plump, the Kiko Smart Fusion line is a must try. Rosy Biscuit has officially earned a permanent spot in my daily makeup bag… and I may have just placed another online Kiko order.
Let’s chat in the comments!
Have you ever ordered from Kiko Milano before? What is your absolute favourite budget beauty find that feels like a luxury product?
Thank you for reading!
Kiko is a brand that I would love to try but we don’t have it in Ireland, unfortunately! Next time I’m in the UK, I will have to get to a store! This looks and sounds gorgeous xx
Ah no way! I hope you’re able to find a store, they do some really great products xx
That is such a pretty shade wow
Glad you like it too xx
That lip colour is so beautiful
Candice x
It really is! Glad you like it too xx
What a gorgeous colour! I love a bit of a brown tone in nude lipsticks. Nothing beats a fresh, new lipstick!
Amber | http://www.amberatlanta.blogspot.co.uk
Got to love a good nude lipstick! That’s so true xx
I love Kiko’s Smart Lipsticks range! It is so good for the price. I love how creamy they are and they have such a lovely shade range. Loved reading your review. You went for such a pretty colour. I can imagine it’s perfect for everyday wear xx
Lauren
It’s such a fab range, isn’t it?! It really is! Thank you so much, and I’m glad you like the look of the colour too xx
I love the brand Kiko Milano, but in my home town theres no store oh!!
Love the color btw!
xoxo
marisasclosetblog.com
It’s such a fab brand isn’t it? Oh no! There’s not one near me either, I have to get everything online. Thank you, glad you like it xx
Kiko is one of my favourite makeup brands! I love their liquid lipsticks and their nail polish
Dora
It’s such a fab brand isn’t it?!xx
I love Kiko lipsticks but I haven’t picked any up for a while! This shade looks gorgeous though.
Emily xx
They’re fab aren’t they?! It’s such a perfect nude shade xx
There isn’t a store near me either, they really should start putting more stores about as I’m sure people would invest and go in them more if they knew about them! Love a creamy lipstick, they are the best types. This is such a gorgeous colour too
They really should, as they have so many great products! They really are! Glad you like the colour too xx
Kiko is by far one of my favourite makeup brands! I’ve never tried out this lipstick but I might have to because it looks gorgeous!
Chloe X
They’re fab aren’t they?! It’s such a good one xx
Ooh this is such a pretty shade! It reminds me of NARS Anita Audacious Lipstick a little xx
Gemma • GemmaEtc.com ❤️
Oooh that’s true! It’s such pretty shade xx
This looks like a perfect everyday shade. My fave!
It’s such a perfect colour xx
I haven’t really tried Kiki but I do like the look of these lippies. I usually always gravitate to a matte but it can’t always be done in winter so I have to look for something a little less drying. The colour of this is absolutely gorgeous as well!.
Charlie
This is such a gorgeous shade, I find Kiko great value for money!
Shelley x
I’ve heard great things about Kiko but I’ve never bought anything from there before. There are a few stores in London though so I’ll have to go looking for this shade when everything opens again 🙂
xo Sarah | Oomph London
I really like Kiko cosmetics <3 Beautiful shade: **
That shade is so beautiful and so pigmented. Thank you for review.
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I know this is an older post but I had to comment as this is such a pretty shade! xx
I love that colour! I’ve never tried Kiko before as I usually like to shop in person for make up and there isn’t a store near to me. But for £3.99 it’s a total bargain xo
I must be honest, I never tried any of KIKO’s lipsticks, but I really love this shade and the scent sounds something I would love to! Really need to check them out x