I bought one of those viral Transferproof Colour-Changing Lipsticks because of the promise. A lipstick that adapts to your lips, gives you a custom shade, and doesn’t transfer?
It sounded like one of those “why hasn’t this always existed?” products.
But after actually using it, it felt a lot less revolutionary and a lot more familiar than I expected.
Key Takeaways
- The color-changing effect works, but it’s not as personalized as advertised
- It turns into a similar pink tone regardless of the starting color
- “Transferproof” is exaggerated… it still transfers slightly
- Feels more like a tinted balm than a true lipstick
- Overall, it leans more gimmicky than essential
What is the Transferproof Colour-Changing Lipstick?
The Transferproof Colour-Changing Lipstick is a clear or lightly tinted lipstick that reacts with your lips’ pH or temperature to create a pink-toned shade. It’s usually marketed as long-lasting, moisturising, and transfer-proof, often with added visual elements such as gold flakes or a crystal-clear base.
Why I Tried It
I liked the idea of:
- not having to pick a shade
- getting something “custom” to my lips
- and having a lipstick that wouldn’t transfer easily
It felt like a low-effort, everyday kind of product.
My Experience Using It
The first swipe was interesting.
It goes on clear or slightly tinted, and within seconds, the colour starts to develop. Watching that happen is actually satisfying… it feels like something is happening.
But then I noticed something.
The color it turns into… isn’t that unique.
It’s basically a pink tone. Maybe slightly deeper or lighter, depending on your lips, but overall, it’s in the same range. After a few uses, it stopped feeling “custom” and started feeling predictable.
The texture is closer to a balm than a lipstick.
It’s smooth, slightly glossy, and comfortable to wear. That part I liked, it didn’t dry my lips out, and it was easy to reapply without thinking.
Now, the “transferproof” claim. It’s not completely true. It transfers less than a creamy lipstick, but it’s not fully transfer-proof. You’ll still see some colour on cups or tissue, especially early on, before it settles.
Over time, it leaves a light stain on the lips, which is probably why it feels long-lasting. But that’s not the same as being completely transfer-proof.
After a while, the whole experience started to feel like this is a decent tinted balm with a cool initial effect… but not something groundbreaking.
Texture, Scent & Feel
Smooth, balm-like texture with a slight gloss.
Feels lightweight and comfortable. No strong scent, depending on the version.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fun color-changing effect
- Easy to apply
- Comfortable, hydrating feel
- Leaves a light stain
Cons
- Not truly “custom” color
- Transfer-proof claim is exaggerated
- Feels more like a balm than lipstick
- Can feel gimmicky over time
Product Claims vs. Reality
Custom color → partially true, but mostly pink variations
Transferproof → not completely, just more resistant than average
Long-lasting → more of a stain effect than actual staying power
Moisturizing → generally true
Is It a Scam?
Not exactly, but it’s definitely over-marketed.
The colour-changing effect is real, but it’s not as advanced as it’s made to seem. Most of these lipsticks use dyes (like Red 27) that react with moisture and pH to turn pink… not truly create a unique shade for each person.
So while it looks like it’s adapting specifically to you, it’s actually producing a fairly similar result across users.
The “transferproof” claim is also stretched.
True transfer-proof lip products are usually matte liquid lipsticks or stains that fully set into the lips. This behaves more like a tint… it leaves color behind, but it’s not immune to transfer.
So it’s not fake, but it’s a basic concept packaged as something more advanced than it is.
Ingredient Breakdown
- pH-reactive dyes (commonly used for color change)
- waxes and oils for moisture
- sometimes added fragrance or decorative elements (like gold flakes)
How to Use
Apply directly to your lips and wait a few seconds for the colour to develop. Reapply as needed.
Alternatives to Consider
- Essence Meta Glow Colour Changing Lipstick
- Winky Lux pH Lip Balm
- Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink
Conclusion — Would I Recommend It?
Only if you know what you’re getting, if you want something fun, low-effort, and slightly different from a regular lip balm, this works. It’s easy to use and comfortable enough for everyday wear.
But if you’re expecting a truly personalized shade or a completely transfer-proof lipstick, this will probably disappoint you.
For me, it ended up being something I enjoyed at first… and then slowly stopped reaching for once the novelty wore off.
Also read my similar review on the Ogee Makeup