I’ve always been a fan of a minimalist makeup routine, but that doesn’t mean I want to compromise on a polished look. The problem with carrying around a full makeup bag for a simple touch-up is that it’s bulky and impractical, especially for travel or a busy day on the go. The e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick aims to solve this dilemma, promising a single, versatile product that can be used on your cheeks, lips, and eyelids. It’s designed to be creamy, easy to blend, and add a luxurious shimmer to your look, all in one compact stick. In this review, I’ll take a closer look at its features, how it performs in different scenarios, and whether it’s a worthwhile addition to your makeup collection. I didn’t expect it to be so luxurious for the price.
You can find this on Amazon here - www.amazon.com/l-f-Monochromatic
What's in the Box
The product arrives in a simple, sleek plastic tube with a twist-up mechanism, which is what you would expect for a multi-use cream stick. The packaging is lightweight and feels solid enough to toss in your bag without worrying it will break. Once you twist it up, the creamy product is revealed. It has a smooth, solid feel to it, and the color, which is Sparkling Rose, has a beautiful, subtle shimmer running through it that catches the light in a lovely way.
Feature Overview
The most notable feature of this product is its incredible versatility. As a creamy shimmer stick, it is meant to be used on the cheeks for a blush, on the eyelids for a pop of color, and on the lips for a subtle sheen. The "Sparkling Rose" shade is a universally flattering color, a peachy pink with a champagne shimmer. This monochromatic approach to makeup is brilliant. It makes getting a cohesive look super simple, a huge time saver. The formula is lightweight and doesn't feel sticky on the skin, which is a major win for all day comfort.
Build Quality & Materials
The stick itself has a nice, buttery texture that glides on without tugging at the skin. The consistency is firm enough that it doesn't break easily but soft enough to blend with just your fingertips. The plastic tube the product comes in is simple but functional. The cap snaps on securely and the twist-up design works without any issues, which is important for a portable item you plan to use on the go. The entire product feels well-made and the ingredients list includes things you want to see. This type of multi-use beauty product really gained traction in the late 90s with the rise of brands focusing on simplicity, a trend that has only grown with modern demands for efficiency and natural looking makeup.
General Performance
I found the e.l.f. multi stick to be incredibly easy to use. It blends effortlessly on the cheeks with just your fingers, leaving a sheer wash of color and shimmer. I also used it on my eyelids and lips, and the consistency was great for both applications. It lasted for a good portion of the day before I noticed any fading, which is pretty impressive for a cream product. It doesn't cake up or settle into fine lines. It feels very comfortable, like you aren't wearing anything at all. You can build up the pigmentation to be more intense if you want but I like a more natural appearance. It works like a charm.
Pros and Cons
The biggest pro is certainly its amazing versatility. Being able to use this one product for your whole face is a game-changer, especially when you're traveling. The affordable price point is another huge benefit; it performs as well as many higher-end products I have tried. It truly is a great value. The creamy formula is easy to blend and creates a beautiful, dewy finish. A potential downside is that because it's a cream product, it may not have the same staying power as a powder, particularly if you have oily skin. The "Sparkling Rose" shade is also quite light, so it might not show up well on deeper skin tones.
Who This Is For
This product is an excellent choice for a makeup beginner who is looking for an affordable and simple-to-use product. It's also perfect for people who love a light, dewy, "no makeup" makeup look. Anyone who travels frequently will appreciate how much space this little stick saves in a makeup bag. It's also a great option for those who prefer cream-based products over powders for a more natural finish. This is probably not for you if you want a super-pigmented, matte product, or something with full-day lasting power.
Comparisons
When you compare the e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick to a product like the NARS The Multiple, there are some clear differences in what you get. The NARS product is much more expensive but often has a slightly more intense pigmentation and staying power. However, the e.l.f. multi stick is much creamier and easier to blend with just your fingers. Both products offer similar versatility for eyes, cheeks, and lips, but the e.l.f. stick's blendability and price point make it an amazing alternative for a fraction of the cost. The finish is also slightly different, with the e.l.f. stick having a softer, more subtle shimmer.
Value for Money
It's hard to beat the value this product provides. It's a high-quality, multi-use item for a very low price. The performance and feel of the e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick easily rival products that are two or three times its cost. This is surprisingly good for the price. The fact that it can be used for multiple purposes means you are getting more than your money's worth. It truly is a bang for your buck and you’ll find it goes the extra mile in your makeup routine.
Quick Takeaways
- The texture is creamy and lightweight, making it easy to blend.
- It is highly versatile and can be used on cheeks, lips, and eyelids.
- The "Sparkling Rose" shade adds a beautiful, subtle shimmer.
- The portable stick format is great for travel and on the go.
- It offers exceptional value for money and performs like a high-end product.
- The formula is comfortable to wear and doesn't feel sticky.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick is a fantastic, all-in-one product that simplifies your makeup routine without sacrificing style. Its key strengths are its versatility, creamy formula, and unbeatable price point. If you’re a fan of a minimalist makeup look, a beginner just starting out, or a traveler looking to save space, this is absolutely the product for you. If you need something with a more intense color payoff or extended wear time, you might want to consider a different product. For me, it has become a new favorite for quick and easy looks, and if you’ve used this too, I’d love to know what you think of it.
