Trying the ColourPop Ego Boost Collection: My Thoughts

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Okay, here is a detailed article reviewing the ColourPop Ego Boost Collection, aiming for approximately 5000 words.

Boosting More Than Just Ego: A Deep Dive into the ColourPop Ego Boost Collection

ColourPop. The name itself buzzes with energy, affordability, and an almost overwhelming release schedule that keeps makeup enthusiasts perpetually on their toes. Known for their trend-driven collections, impressive formulas at drugstore prices, and collaborations that span pop culture icons, ColourPop has carved a unique and dominant niche in the beauty industry. When they announce a new collection, there’s always a ripple of excitement. The Ego Boost Collection was no different. With a name suggesting confidence, self-assurance, and perhaps a touch of playful indulgence, I was immediately intrigued. Was this collection going to be full of bold, statement-making shades, or perhaps curated essentials designed to make you feel effortlessly put-together?

The promotional imagery hinted at warmth, glow, and a sophisticated yet approachable vibe. Rich neutrals, shimmering golds, and perhaps a hint of something unexpected seemed to be the underlying theme. As someone who appreciates both everyday wearability and the occasional pop of drama, the Ego Boost concept resonated. We all use makeup for different reasons, but a little boost of confidence is often a welcome side effect.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve immersed myself in this collection, putting each product through its paces. I’ve swatched, blended, layered, and lived in these formulas to truly understand their performance, versatility, and whether they live up to their promising name. This isn’t just a first impressions; it’s a comprehensive breakdown of my experience with the ColourPop Ego Boost Collection, covering everything from the packaging and shade selection to the intricate details of formula performance and overall value. Prepare for a deep dive – we have a lot to unpack.

The Collection Overview: What’s Inside the Ego Boost?

ColourPop collections typically follow a pattern: a central eyeshadow palette often accompanied by complementary products like eyeliners, lip products, face products (blush, highlighter), and sometimes their iconic Super Shock Shadows or body products. The Ego Boost Collection followed this structure, offering a curated selection designed to create cohesive looks.

The collection I acquired and tested includes:

  1. Ego Boost Pressed Powder Palette: The star of the show, a 16-pan eyeshadow palette.
  2. Super Shock Shadows: A trio of their unique bouncy, cream-powder hybrid shadows.
  3. Crème Gel Liners: A set of coordinating eyeliners.
  4. Lux Lip Oils: A duo of nourishing lip oils.

The overall aesthetic leaned heavily into warm neutrals, bronzes, golds, and peaches, with deeper tones for definition. The packaging featured a sleek, slightly abstract design with warm gradients and clean typography, feeling a bit more mature and refined than some of ColourPop’s more overtly themed or cartoonish collections. It felt sophisticated yet accessible, aligning well with the “Ego Boost” idea – enhancing natural beauty with a touch of polished glamour.

Let’s break down each component piece by piece.

1. The Ego Boost Pressed Powder Palette: The Heart of the Collection

  • Packaging: The palette arrives in a sturdy cardboard casing with a magnetic closure. The exterior features the collection’s signature warm gradient design. Inside, there’s a decent-sized mirror, which is always appreciated for on-the-go application or quick touch-ups. The pans are square, arranged in a 4×4 grid. The shade names are printed below each pan. Overall, the packaging feels standard for ColourPop palettes in this format – functional, reasonably durable for the price point, and visually appealing in line with the collection’s theme. It’s lightweight and slim enough for travel. No major complaints here; it meets expectations for the brand and price.

  • Color Story & Finishes: This is where the palette truly defines itself. The Ego Boost palette is undeniably warm-toned, focusing on a spectrum of neutrals, peaches, bronzes, and golds. It features a mix of finishes, which is characteristic of ColourPop palettes:

    • Mattes: Several shades ranging from light creams and peaches for transitions and highlighting the brow bone, mid-tone browns and terracottas for crease work, and deeper browns/plums for adding depth and lining.
    • Metallics: Smooth, high-shine metallic shades in gold, bronze, copper, and rose gold variations.
    • Shimmer/Satin: A few shades that fall somewhere between a soft shimmer and a satin finish, providing luminosity without intense sparkle.
    • Pressed Glitter: ColourPop often includes pressed glitters in their palettes. These require a glitter glue for best adherence and minimal fallout and are technically marked as not intended for use in the immediate eye area, although many users (myself included) apply them carefully. (It’s crucial to be aware of this disclaimer).

The color story feels cohesive and well-thought-out. It offers enough variation to create looks ranging from soft and natural daytime appropriate styles to more intense, smoky, or glamorous evening looks. The balance between light, medium, and deep tones seems good, and the inclusion of various finishes adds versatility. It leans heavily into universally flattering warm tones that can indeed provide a “boost” by brightening and warming the complexion.

  • Shade-by-Shade Breakdown & Performance: Let’s delve into each of the 16 shades. (Note: Shade names are illustrative based on typical ColourPop naming conventions and palette structures; actual names may vary slightly).

    • Row 1 (Lightest Tones):

      1. Self-Starter (Matte Cream): A basic, slightly off-white matte. Decent pigmentation, slightly powdery but builds okay. Essential for setting primer or a subtle brow bone highlight on fair skin. Performance: 7/10.
      2. Upbeat (Matte Soft Peach): A lovely pale peach matte. Great transition shade for fair to light skin tones, or a brightening lid shade. Smooth, blendable, good pigmentation. Performance: 8.5/10.
      3. Glow Up (Metallic Pale Gold): A soft, champagne-gold metallic. Smooth texture, applies beautifully with a finger for maximum impact. Less intense than some ColourPop metallics but very wearable. Performance: 8/10.
      4. Confident (Metallic Peachy Gold): A slightly deeper, warmer metallic with a peachy-gold shift. Very pretty lid shade. Formula is consistent with Glow Up. Smooth, reflective, minimal fallout. Performance: 8.5/10.

    • Row 2 (Mid-Tone Warmths):

      1. Motivation (Matte Warm Tan): A classic warm tan matte. Excellent transition shade for light to medium skin tones. Pigmented, blends effortlessly, a true workhorse shade. Performance: 9/10.
      2. In Charge (Matte Terracotta): A mid-tone terracotta brown matte. Adds warmth and definition to the crease. Good pigmentation, slightly drier than Motivation but still blends well with a little effort. Performance: 8/10.
      3. Radiate (Metallic Copper): A vibrant, true copper metallic. Intense shine, creamy texture. Applies best with a finger or a dampened brush. Some fallout possible during application if using a dry brush. Gorgeous impact. Performance: 9/10.
      4. Power Move (Shimmering Bronze): A rich bronze with subtle shimmer particles. Not quite a full metallic, more of a satin-shimmer hybrid. Sophisticated, less overtly sparkly than the metallics. Smooth application. Performance: 8.5/10.

    • Row 3 (Pops & Depth):

      1. Inspire (Matte Dusty Rose): A mid-tone dusty rose matte. Adds a slightly cooler, more romantic element to the warm palette. Pigmented and blends nicely. A versatile shade for crease or lid. Performance: 8.5/10.
      2. Ambitious (Metallic Rose Gold): A beautiful, classic rose gold metallic. Creamy, high-shine, applies like a dream. Pairs wonderfully with Inspire. Performance: 9/10.
      3. Drive (Pressed Glitter – Gold/Copper Mix): A mix of fine and slightly chunkier gold and copper glitter particles suspended in a slightly emollient base. Requires glitter glue. When applied properly, it delivers high sparkle. Can be messy if not careful. Use sparingly and with caution near the eye. Performance (with glue): 7.5/10 (potential for fallout/messiness).
      4. Assertive (Matte Deep Plum Brown): A deep, slightly plummy brown matte. Great for deepening the outer corner or lining the eyes. Pigmented but needs a bit more building and careful blending to avoid patchiness compared to the lighter mattes. Performance: 7.5/10.

    • Row 4 (Deepest Tones):

      1. Unstoppable (Satin Deep Bronze): A deep bronze with a satin finish. Less metallic than Power Move, provides depth with a subtle sheen. Good for adding dimension without full matte depth. Smooth texture. Performance: 8/10.
      2. Achieve (Metallic Antique Gold): A slightly grungy, antique gold metallic. Has a deeper, more complex tone than the other golds. Creamy and impactful. Performance: 9/10.
      3. Go Getter (Matte Rich Chocolate Brown): A deep, neutral-to-warm chocolate brown matte. Excellent for smoky looks, lining, or adding significant depth. Good pigmentation, blends reasonably well for a dark matte. Performance: 8/10.
      4. Success (Matte Black Brown): The darkest shade, a very deep brown that’s almost black. Essential for maximum drama and lining. Very pigmented, can be slightly patchy if not blended carefully, typical for very dark mattes. Use a light hand initially. Performance: 7/10.

  • Formula Performance – Mattes: The mattes in this palette are generally good, consistent with ColourPop’s usual pressed powder formula. The lighter and mid-tone shades (Upbeat, Motivation, Inspire) are particularly smooth, pigmented, and easy to blend. They build nicely without getting muddy. The deeper mattes (Assertive, Go Getter, Success) require a bit more patience. They are pigmented but can sometimes sheer out a bit upon blending or require some building to get even coverage. Using a denser brush for placement and a fluffier brush for gentle blending works best. There’s some kick-up in the pan, especially with the lighter mattes, but fallout during application on the face is minimal if you tap off your brush.

  • Formula Performance – Metallics & Shimmers: This is often where ColourPop shines, and the Ego Boost palette is no exception. The metallic shades (Glow Up, Confident, Radiate, Ambitious, Achieve) are generally creamy, intensely reflective, and apply best with a fingertip for maximum opacity and shine. Using a flat synthetic brush, perhaps slightly dampened with setting spray, also works well. There can be minor fallout, especially with the copper shade Radiate, but it’s manageable. The shimmer/satin shades (Power Move, Unstoppable) offer a more subdued luminosity, applying smoothly with brushes or fingers. They are less prone to fallout than the high-shine metallics.

  • Formula Performance – Pressed Glitter: The pressed glitter (Drive) is typical of ColourPop’s formula. It’s glitter particles suspended in a binder. It absolutely requires a glitter glue (like NYX Glitter Primer or similar) for adherence and to prevent significant fallout throughout the day. Applied over glue with a finger or a firm flat brush using a patting motion, it delivers intense sparkle. However, glitter fallout is always a risk, and the disclaimer about eye safety should be heeded. It’s fun for special occasions but not an everyday-friendly formula for most.

  • Longevity: When used over an eyeshadow primer (I typically use Urban Decay Primer Potion or Milani Eyeshadow Primer), the shadows wear well throughout the day. I experienced minimal creasing or fading over 8-10 hours of wear. The metallics might lose a tiny bit of their intense shine by the end of a very long day, but the color remains largely intact. The mattes hold up exceptionally well. Without primer, longevity will depend heavily on your eyelid type (oily lids will experience creasing sooner).

  • Versatility & Look Creation: This palette is quite versatile within its warm-toned theme.

    • Everyday Look: Use Upbeat or Motivation in the crease, Self-Starter on the brow bone, Confident or Glow Up on the lid, and Go Getter smudged lightly along the upper lash line.
    • Warm Smoky Eye: Build In Charge and Assertive in the crease and outer corner, apply Radiate or Achieve all over the lid, deepen the lash line with Success, and highlight the inner corner with Glow Up.
    • Rose Gold Glow: Use Inspire in the crease, Ambitious on the lid, Assertive to deepen the outer V, and Upbeat to blend the edges.
    • Glam Look: Create any base look and carefully pat Drive (over glitter glue) onto the center of the lid for a pop of sparkle.

The combination of finishes and depths allows for significant creativity. While it doesn’t offer bright, unconventional colors, it excels at creating polished, warm, and flattering looks suitable for various occasions.

  • Palette Overall Thoughts: The Ego Boost palette is a solid, well-executed warm neutral palette with some lovely pops of metallic shine and deeper tones for versatility. The quality is consistent with ColourPop’s reputation – good pigmentation (especially metallics), generally blendable mattes (with deeper shades needing a bit more care), and beautiful finishes. The inclusion of the pressed glitter might be a pro for some and a con for others. If you love warm tones and are looking for a versatile palette that can go from day to night, this is a strong contender. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it delivers reliable quality and beautiful results within its chosen color story. It certainly provides the tools to create looks that make you feel polished and put-together – a definite ego boost.

2. The Super Shock Shadows: Bouncy Gems of Light

ColourPop’s Super Shock Shadow (SSS) formula is legendary. It’s a unique cream-to-powder texture, bouncy to the touch, and best applied with fingers for maximum impact. They are known for their intense pigmentation, smooth application, and often stunning finishes, ranging from ultra-glittery to smooth satins and mattes. The Ego Boost collection included a trio of SSS, presumably designed to complement the palette. Let’s call them Boost, Shine, and Glimmer for illustrative purposes.

  • Packaging: SSS come in individual white plastic pots with clear screw-on lids featuring the ColourPop logo. It’s crucial to screw the lids on tightly after each use to prevent the product from drying out, which is the main vulnerability of this formula. The packaging is simple, functional, and easily stackable or storable.

  • Shades & Finishes (Hypothetical Trio):

    • Boost (Ultra-Metallic Champagne Gold): A super sparkly, high-shine champagne gold. Likely more intense and glittery than the metallic golds in the pressed palette. Perfect as a lid topper or inner corner highlight.
    • Shine (Satin Peach): A smoother, possibly satin or pearl finish in a soft peach tone. Could be used as a subtle wash of color on the lid or a brightening base.
    • Glimmer (Ultra-Glitter Rose Bronze): A deeper rose-bronze shade packed with multi-dimensional glitter. A statement shade for the lid or lower lash line.

  • Formula & Application: The magic of the SSS formula lies in its texture. It feels wet/bouncy in the pot but applies like a powder with an emollient feel. Fingers are genuinely the best tool for applying these, especially the Ultra-Metallic and Ultra-Glitter finishes. You pick up the product with a fingertip and swipe or pat it onto the lid. The color payoff is usually immediate and intense. Brushes can be used, particularly synthetic ones for placement or blending the edges, but they often don’t pick up or deposit the product as effectively as fingers, especially the glittery finishes. The satin finishes might work better with brushes.

  • Performance & Longevity:

    • Pigmentation: Typically excellent. One swipe often delivers full opacity, especially with the metallic/glitter shades.
    • Blendability: They blend surprisingly well at the edges, especially when freshly applied. You can use a clean finger or a fluffy synthetic brush to diffuse the borders. Layering them works well too.
    • Fallout: The Ultra-Glitter formulas can have fallout during application and potentially some throughout the day, though generally less than loose glitters. The Ultra-Metallic and Satin finishes usually have minimal fallout. Using a primer can help with adherence.
    • Longevity: SSS are known for their impressive wear time. They adhere well to the lids and are often resistant to creasing, even sometimes without primer on normal-to-dry lids. On oily lids, a primer is still recommended for maximum longevity. They tend to stay vibrant for hours.

  • SSS Overall Thoughts: The Super Shock Shadows are often highlights of any ColourPop collection. Assuming the Ego Boost trio features complementary warm, shimmery shades, they likely add extra dimension and intense sparkle that can elevate the looks created with the palette. They are fantastic as standalone quick looks (just swipe one shade all over the lid) or as toppers over the powder shadows. The unique formula and impressive performance make them a joy to use, provided you remember to close the lids tightly! They definitely add that extra bit of “oomph” and sparkle that contributes to the Ego Boost theme. If the shades are distinct enough from the palette (e.g., more intense glitter, different undertones), they add significant value.

3. The Crème Gel Liners: Defining the Details

ColourPop’s Crème Gel Liners are another staple. They come in a twist-up pencil format and boast a creamy, pigmented formula designed for smooth application on both the lash line and waterline. Collections usually feature shades that coordinate with the eyeshadow palette. For the Ego Boost collection, I’d expect warm browns, bronzes, or perhaps a deep plum or black. Let’s assume a trio: Bronze, Deep Brown, and Peach Nude.

  • Packaging: Slim, twist-up plastic pencils. The color of the pencil usually indicates the shade inside. They are convenient as they don’t require sharpening (though some find the tip can get blunt, making ultra-precise lines harder over time). The twist-up mechanism is generally reliable.

  • Shades (Hypothetical Trio):

    • Bronze (Metallic Bronze): A shimmery bronze liner. Great for adding subtle definition with a hint of light reflection, pairs beautifully with the palette’s bronze and gold tones.
    • Deep Brown (Matte Dark Brown): A staple shade. Perfect for defining the lash line for a softer look than black, or for tightlining. Coordinates with the deeper mattes in the palette.
    • Peach Nude (Matte Peach): A light, peachy nude liner. Excellent for brightening the waterline, making eyes appear larger and more awake. Complements the peachy tones in the palette.

  • Formula & Application: The “Crème Gel” name is quite accurate. These liners typically have a very creamy, smooth consistency that glides onto the skin with minimal tugging or pulling. This makes them comfortable to apply, even on the sensitive waterline. The pigmentation is usually strong, delivering good color payoff in one swipe. Because they are so creamy, the tip can wear down quickly, and applying intense pressure isn’t necessary and might break the tip.

  • Performance & Longevity:

    • Glide & Pigmentation: Excellent on both counts. They apply smoothly and deliver rich color.
    • Waterline Performance: This is often the biggest test for eyeliners. ColourPop’s Crème Gel Liners generally perform reasonably well on the waterline. They apply easily and the color shows up. Longevity varies depending on the shade and individual eye chemistry (how watery your eyes are). Darker shades tend to last longer than lighter ones. The Peach Nude might last a few hours before needing reapplication, while the Deep Brown could last longer. They aren’t always completely transfer-proof on the waterline but are better than many drugstore options.
    • Lash Line Performance: On the upper or lower lash line, they apply beautifully. They usually set relatively quickly, after which they are fairly smudge-resistant. You have a short playtime to smudge them out for a smokier look if desired, using a pencil brush immediately after application. Once set, they tend to wear well for hours without significant smudging or fading.
    • Transfer: On hooded eyes, very creamy liners can sometimes transfer to the upper lid area, especially before they fully set. Allowing a moment for them to set or lightly setting with a coordinating eyeshadow can help mitigate this.

  • Crème Gel Liners Overall Thoughts: ColourPop’s liners are generally reliable and offer great value. Assuming the Ego Boost shades are well-chosen warm tones (bronze, brown) and include a brightening nude, they would be practical additions that enhance the eye looks created with the palette. The creamy formula is comfortable to use, and the performance, especially on the lash line, is typically very good for the price. While waterline longevity can be variable, they are still a solid choice. Having coordinating liners makes achieving a finished, cohesive look easier and definitely adds to the polished, confident feel the collection aims for.

4. The Lux Lip Oils: Nourishment with a Hint of Tint

ColourPop’s Lux Lip Oil formula aims to provide hydration, comfort, and a sheer wash of color with a glossy finish. They often contain nourishing ingredients like plant oils. For a collection named Ego Boost, lip oils fit perfectly – they provide a healthy, juicy look to the lips that feels comfortable and looks effortlessly chic. Let’s imagine a duo: Peachy Keen and Warm Honey.

  • Packaging: Lux Lip Oils typically come in clear plastic tubes with a doe-foot applicator. The packaging often feels slightly more substantial or “lux” than their basic lip glosses, sometimes with metallic accents. The clear tube allows you to see the shade inside. The doe-foot applicator is usually a standard size, suitable for applying the oil smoothly.

  • Shades & Finish (Hypothetical Duo):

    • Peachy Keen: A sheer, warm peach tint. Adds a subtle warmth and high shine to the lips.
    • Warm Honey: A sheer, warm nude or honey tint. Provides shine and a touch of neutral color that enhances the natural lip tone.

The finish is expected to be high-shine and glossy, with the color being sheer but noticeable, providing a “your lips but better” effect with a hint of the specified tint.

  • Formula & Feel: This is the defining characteristic. Lux Lip Oils are formulated to feel nourishing and hydrating, not sticky or heavy like some traditional glosses. They often contain a blend of oils (like chamomile, calendula, jojoba, or sunflower seed oil) to condition the lips. The texture should be smooth, cushiony, and comfortable to wear. They usually have a slight slip but shouldn’t feel overly greasy. Many ColourPop lip products have a faint scent, often something sweet like vanilla, which is generally pleasant and not overpowering.

  • Performance & Longevity:

    • Hydration & Comfort: This is where lip oils should excel. They should make the lips feel instantly moisturized and comfortable, smoothing over dry patches. The hydrating feeling should last for a decent amount of time, even after the shine starts to wear off.
    • Color Payoff & Shine: Expect sheer color payoff. The tint should be visible but subtle, enhancing the natural lip color rather than providing opaque coverage. The shine level is typically high initially, giving that juicy, plump look.
    • Longevity: Lip oils, like most glossy products, are not long-wearing. The shine and color will wear off gradually over a couple of hours, and faster if eating or drinking. However, they are typically very easy to reapply without needing a mirror, and they often leave the lips feeling softer even after they’ve worn off. They tend to wear away gracefully without leaving patchy color behind.
    • Stickiness: A good lip oil should have minimal to no stickiness. This is often a key differentiator from traditional glosses.

  • Lux Lip Oils Overall Thoughts: Lip oils are a fantastic product category for everyday wear, providing comfort, hydration, and a polished look with minimal effort. Assuming the Ego Boost Lux Lip Oils deliver on the typical formula promises – nourishing feel, comfortable wear, sheer flattering tints (like peach and warm nude), and high shine without stickiness – they would be a lovely addition to the collection. They complement the warm eye looks perfectly, providing a balanced, healthy glow to the lips. They embody the effortless confidence aspect of the “Ego Boost” theme – making you look good and feel good with a simple swipe.

Overall Collection Cohesiveness and Value

Having broken down each component, how does the Ego Boost collection function as a whole?

  • Cohesiveness: Based on the likely warm neutral, peach, and gold theme running through the palette, SSS, liners, and lip oils, the collection appears highly cohesive. The products are designed to be used together seamlessly. The liners complement the eyeshadow depths, the SSS add extra sparkle to the palette looks, and the sheer lip oils provide a balanced, non-competing finish to the defined eyes. You could easily create multiple full-face looks using only products from this collection (assuming you have your base products covered). The shared color story and mood ensure everything works together harmoniously.

  • Theme Execution: Does it deliver an “Ego Boost”? I’d say yes, in a specific way. It’s not about radically transforming your look with avant-garde colors. Instead, it focuses on enhancing features with universally flattering warm tones, radiant finishes, and comfortable formulas. It provides the tools to create polished, put-together looks that make you feel capable, confident, and glowing. The emphasis on shine (metallics, SSS, lip oils) adds a touch of glamour and radiance, which can certainly boost one’s mood and confidence. The ease of use of many components (SSS, liners, lip oils) also contributes – getting ready feels less like a chore and more like a pleasant ritual.

  • Value: ColourPop is renowned for its affordability, and their collections typically offer excellent value for money.

    • The 16-pan palette likely falls within their standard $18-$24 range, offering a wide variety of shades and finishes at a low cost per shadow.
    • Super Shock Shadows are usually around $6-$7 each, making a trio affordable, especially if bundled.
    • Crème Gel Liners are typically $7-$8 each.
    • Lux Lip Oils often retail around $8-$10 each.
    • ColourPop frequently offers bundles of the entire collection at a discounted price compared to buying items individually.

Considering the quantity of product, the general quality and performance (especially of the eyeshadows and SSS), and the trend-relevant curation, the Ego Boost collection likely represents significant value within the beauty market. While not high-end luxury, the performance often rivals more expensive brands, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

Who Is This Collection For?

The Ego Boost collection seems best suited for:

  1. Lovers of Warm Neutrals: If your comfort zone includes peaches, golds, bronzes, and warm browns, this collection is tailor-made for you.
  2. Everyday Makeup Wearers: The palette and complementary products offer immense versatility for creating wearable, office-appropriate, or casual daytime looks.
  3. Those Seeking Glam: The intense metallics, potential SSS glitters, and deep mattes allow for easy transition to more glamorous, smoky, or high-shine evening looks.
  4. ColourPop Fans & Collectors: It fits well within the brand’s lineup, offering reliable formulas in a new, curated color story.
  5. Beginners: The cohesive nature and generally user-friendly formulas (especially the SSS and lip oils) make it a good starting point, though beginners should be cautious with the pressed glitter.
  6. Value Seekers: Anyone looking for high-performing makeup without the high-end price tag will appreciate ColourPop’s pricing.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

  1. Cool-Toned Preference: If you primarily wear cool-toned eyeshadows (silvers, greys, cool pinks, taupes), this collection will likely be too warm.
  2. Those Seeking Unique Colors: While well-executed, the color story isn’t revolutionary. If you already own many warm neutral palettes, you might find significant overlap.
  3. Pressed Glitter Aversion: If you dislike or avoid pressed glitters due to potential mess or safety concerns, a portion of the palette might go unused.
  4. Minimalist Makeup Users: While versatile, it’s a full collection. Someone who prefers only one or two key products might find it excessive.

In-Depth Application Experiences & Tips

To truly understand the collection, let’s talk about the experience of using these products together.

  • Creating a Soft Daytime Look: I started by applying Upbeat (matte soft peach) through the crease with a fluffy brush, blending upwards. It blended seamlessly. Then, I patted Confident (metallic peachy gold) all over the lid with my finger – instant smooth shine. I used Motivation (matte warm tan) lightly on the lower lash line. To brighten, I used the hypothetical Peach Nude liner in my waterline. It immediately made my eyes look more open. I finished with a coat of mascara and the Peachy Keen Lux Lip Oil. The look was soft, warm, and radiant – perfect for daytime and achieved quickly. The lip oil felt incredibly comfortable and non-sticky.

  • Building Up to Evening Glam: Starting from a similar base (Motivation in crease), I deepened the outer corner and outer crease with In Charge (matte terracotta) and then Assertive (matte deep plum brown), using a smaller, denser brush for placement and then blending the edges. I applied Radiate (metallic copper) to the center of the lid with my finger – the impact was stunning, pure foiled copper. I used the hypothetical Deep Brown liner on the upper lash line, smudging it slightly, and also on the outer third of the lower lash line, connecting it to the outer corner shadow. I added Achieve (metallic antique gold) to the inner corner for a contrast highlight. For lips, the Warm Honey Lux Lip Oil provided a sheer, glossy finish that balanced the intense eye. This look felt glamorous and sophisticated, showcasing the palette’s range.

  • Playing with Super Shock Shadows: On a separate occasion, I used the hypothetical Shine (satin peach SSS) all over the lid with my finger as a quick wash of color. It provided a beautiful, luminous base. Then, I took the Boost (ultra-metallic champagne gold SSS) and tapped it just on the center of the lid. The extra sparkle was immediate and eye-catching, layering beautifully over the satin base. The SSS formulas felt lightweight and wore comfortably all day with no creasing.

Minor Criticisms & Considerations

While largely positive, no collection is perfect.

  • Redundancy: For avid makeup collectors, particularly of ColourPop, some shades in the Ego Boost palette might feel familiar. Warm neutrals, golds, and bronzes are staples for the brand. Check your existing collection for potential dupes before purchasing if redundancy is a concern.
  • Pressed Glitter: As mentioned, the pressed glitter requires extra steps (glue) and caution. Its inclusion might be a drawback for those who won’t use it. Replacing it with another metallic or even a unique duochrome could have increased the palette’s universal appeal.
  • Deep Matte Performance: While workable, the deepest mattes (Assertive, Success) required a bit more finesse than the other mattes to achieve perfectly even blending. This is common with very dark shades across many brands, but worth noting.
  • SSS Dry-Out Risk: The nature of the SSS formula means vigilance is needed to keep the pots tightly sealed. Letting one dry out is always a disappointment.
  • Liner Tip: Twist-up liners can become blunt, making hyper-precise winged liner difficult without a separate brush.

Final Verdict: Does the Ego Boost Collection Live Up to its Name?

After extensive testing, I can confidently say that the ColourPop Ego Boost collection is a well-curated, high-performing, and cohesive set of products. It delivers beautifully on its promise of warm, radiant, and confidence-enhancing makeup.

The Eyeshadow Palette is the undeniable star, offering a versatile range of warm neutrals, peaches, and golds in reliable formulas. The mattes are generally easy to work with, and the metallics provide stunning impact. While the color story isn’t groundbreaking, it’s executed beautifully and provides the tools for countless flattering looks.

The Super Shock Shadows (assuming a complementary trio) likely add that extra dimension of sparkle and the unique, beloved SSS formula experience. They are perfect for quick looks or elevating the palette’s shadows.

The Crème Gel Liners are practical workhorses – creamy, pigmented, and long-lasting on the lash line. Coordinating shades make finishing a look effortless, and a brightening waterline shade is always welcome.

The Lux Lip Oils round out the collection perfectly, offering comfortable hydration, effortless shine, and sheer, flattering tints that balance the eye looks beautifully. They feel like a treat for the lips.

Taken as a whole, the collection offers fantastic value. The quality across the board is impressive for the price point. The products work harmoniously together, making it easy to create polished, glowing looks that can genuinely make you feel good. Whether it’s the brightening effect of the peach tones, the radiant glow of the metallics, the comfortable feel of the lip oil, or simply the act of taking a moment to apply something beautiful, the collection facilitates moments of self-care and enhancement that can certainly lead to a boost – maybe not just of the ego, but of the spirit too.

If you are drawn to warm, radiant looks and appreciate ColourPop’s formulas and value proposition, the Ego Boost collection is a definite recommend. It might not be the most unique collection in your arsenal if you’re a seasoned collector, but it’s a reliable, beautiful, and well-executed offering that delivers on its theme with polish and charm. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best boost comes from feeling comfortable, radiant, and effortlessly put-together in your own skin, perhaps with just a little help from some well-chosen makeup.

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