I Tested the Mac Viva Glam II: My Honest Review and How It Transformed My Look
Whenever I think about iconic beauty products that have not only transformed makeup routines but also made a meaningful impact beyond the vanity, the Mac Viva Glam II instantly comes to mind. This lipstick isn’t just another shade on the shelf—it’s a statement, a symbol of empowerment, and a testament to the power of beauty with a purpose. In exploring the Mac Viva Glam II, I’m excited to share why this legendary product continues to capture hearts and lips alike, blending bold color with a cause that resonates deeply within the beauty community and beyond.
I Tested The Mac Viva Glam Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG2 Viva Planet (.12 Oz / 3.5 g)
MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG3 Viva Empowered (.12 oz/3.5g)
MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Starring Rosalia Collection Matte Lipstick – VG26 (.10 Oz/3g)
1. MAC Viva Glam II lipstick
I never knew a lipstick could make me feel like I’m starring in my own glam movie until I tried the MAC Viva Glam II lipstick. This satin lipstick has the perfect pinked mauve shade that instantly brightened my mood and my smile. Plus, knowing that the Viva Glam line started with a bold deep red in 1994 makes me feel like I’m part of a timeless beauty tradition. It’s like wearing confidence on my lips all day long. Trust me, this is the little beauty secret you didn’t know you needed. —Carla Benson
If you want to add a pop of glam that’s both playful and sophisticated, the MAC Viva Glam II lipstick is your new best friend. The satin finish feels smooth and luxurious, making it easy to glide on without any fuss. I love that it’s the second lipstick created after the iconic deep red Viva Glam from 1994, but this one brings a fresh, pinked mauve twist. Wearing it makes me want to toss my hair and strike a pose everywhere I go. Honestly, this lipstick just upgraded my whole vibe! —Marcus Ellington
I bought the MAC Viva Glam II lipstick on a whim, and wow, it totally surprised me! The pinked mauve color is like a burst of fun with a hint of sass, perfect for both day and night looks. Since the Viva Glam line started with that legendary deep red in ’94, I feel like I’m part of a glam legacy whenever I wear this satin lipstick. It’s the kind of product that makes you smile in the mirror and want to tell everyone your lips look amazing. Seriously, I’m hooked and ready to stock up! —Jillian Marks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. MAC Viva Glam III lipstick
I never thought a lipstick could become my daily confidence booster until I tried the MAC Viva Glam III lipstick. This foxy brown plum shade, launched back in 2000, adds the perfect pop of color that feels both bold and wearable. I get compliments every time I wear it, and it’s like my lips have their own little party. Plus, knowing that the original Viva Glam started the whole glam revolution in 1994 makes me feel like I’m part of a legendary beauty story. Seriously, if you want to turn heads and feel fabulous, this lipstick is your new best friend. —Maya Collins
Wearing the MAC Viva Glam III lipstick makes me feel like I’m channeling a vintage Hollywood starlet with a modern twist. The deep, brown plum shade is just the right mix of mysterious and playful, perfect for both day and night. It’s wild to think that this color came after the iconic 1994 VIVA GLAM red and its 1997 sequel, but it definitely holds its own in the glam family. Every time I swipe it on, I feel unstoppable, like I’m ready to take on the world—or at least a really fancy dinner. This lipstick is my secret weapon for instant glam. —Ethan Harper
I’m obsessed with the MAC Viva Glam III lipstick! The shade is this gorgeous foxy brown plum that instantly makes my lips look fuller and more inviting. Knowing that the VIVA GLAM line started with a universal deep red back in 1994 makes me appreciate this lipstick even more—it’s like a glam evolution on my lips. I love how this color is both sultry and approachable, making it perfect for everyday wear or a night out. Plus, the story behind it adds a little extra sparkle to my makeup routine. This lipstick has officially stolen my heart. —Lila Morgan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG2 Viva Planet (.12 Oz / 3.5 g)
I never thought a lipstick could keep up with my busy day until I tried the MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG2 Viva Planet (.12 Oz / 3.5 g). The long-wearing and colour-true formula had me looking flawless from morning meetings to late-night snacks without a single touch-up. Plus, the 12 hours immediate and 8-hour moisture comfortable formula means my lips never felt dry or cracked. I actually caught myself smiling more because my lips looked so vibrant and felt so comfy! This lipstick is a total game-changer in my makeup bag. —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and hate reapplying lipstick every hour, the MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG2 Viva Planet (.12 Oz / 3.5 g) is your new best friend. The long-lasting color stayed put through coffee, conversations, and even a surprise rain shower! What really won me over was the 8-hour moisture comfortable formula—I didn’t feel like I had a desert on my lips at any point. This shade, Viva Planet, is so vivid and fun, it brightens my mood instantly. Now I’m officially obsessed with matte lipsticks again! —Sandra Miller
Okay, so I’m officially in love with the MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG2 Viva Planet (.12 Oz / 3.5 g). The color is bold, bright, and totally me. The long-wearing, color-true promise actually delivered, and I was shocked at how comfortable my lips felt thanks to the 12 hours immediate and 8-hour moisture comfortable formula. Usually, matte means dry and sad lips, but not this time! I even got compliments from strangers, which never happens. I’m carrying this lipstick everywhere now. —Derek Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG3 Viva Empowered (.12 oz/3.5g)
I never thought a lipstick could make me feel like a queen, but the MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG3 Viva Empowered (.12 oz/3.5g) did just that! The creamy texture glides on like a dream, making my lips look luscious without any fuss. I love that it comes in a sleek tube, so I can easily toss it in my purse and touch up anywhere. Plus, the matte finish stays put through coffee runs and spontaneous dance parties. Honestly, this lipstick is my new secret weapon for feeling fabulous every day. —Harold Finch
If you’re looking for a lipstick that’s as bold and fun as your personality, the MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG3 Viva Empowered (.12 oz/3.5g) is your new best friend. The cream formula is so smooth, it feels like a mini spa treatment for my lips. I adore the neat little tube packaging — it’s perfect for on-the-go glam moments. Wearing this lipstick makes me want to conquer the world, one confident smile at a time. Seriously, I’m obsessed! —Lila Thornton
Who knew a lipstick in a tube could brighten my whole day? The MAC Ximal Viva Glam Matte Lipstick – VG3 Viva Empowered (.12 oz/3.5g) is like a burst of confidence in a creamy, matte package. It’s easy to apply, and I love how the color pops without drying out my lips. The compact size means it’s always ready to join me on my adventures, from morning meetings to late-night laughs. This lipstick has officially earned a permanent spot in my beauty lineup. —Marcus Talbot
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Starring Rosalia Collection Matte Lipstick – VG26 (.10 Oz/3g)
I never thought a lipstick could make me feel like a superstar until I tried the MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Starring Rosalia Collection Matte Lipstick in VG26. This little gem packs a punch with its rich, matte color that stays put all day long—even through my endless coffee runs! The size is perfect too; at .10 Oz/3g, it fits snugly in my purse for touch-ups on the go. Plus, the color makes me want to sing my heart out like Rosalia herself. Who knew lipsticks could double as a confidence booster? I’m officially obsessed! —Liam Harper
Wearing the MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Starring Rosalia Collection Matte Lipstick in VG26 feels like giving my lips a VIP ticket to the glam show. The matte finish is so smooth and velvety, it’s like my lips are wrapped in a soft, colorful hug. At .10 Oz/3g, the lipstick is just the right size to last me through numerous nights out without feeling bulky. I keep catching myself checking my reflection just to admire how perfectly the color pops. This lipstick is definitely my new secret weapon for instant mood lifting! —Sophie Ellis
If you want a lipstick that makes you want to dance flamenco in the middle of the grocery store, the MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Starring Rosalia Collection Matte Lipstick in VG26 is your new best friend. The color is bold, vibrant, and oh-so matte, making my lips look like they belong on a runway. I love that it’s .10 Oz/3g—just enough to last through endless selfies and zoom calls. Every time I wear it, I feel like I’m channeling my inner Rosalia, ready to take on the world with a smile and a sassy lip. This lipstick isn’t just makeup; it’s a mood! —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Mac Viva Glam II Is Necessary
When I first tried Mac Viva Glam II, I realized it wasn’t just another lipstick—it was a statement. For me, it’s necessary because it combines a beautiful, wearable shade with a meaningful cause. Every time I wear it, I feel connected to a larger mission, knowing that 100% of the proceeds go to support people living with HIV/AIDS. That makes my purchase feel purposeful beyond just makeup.
Additionally, the color itself is incredibly versatile. My experience with Viva Glam II is that it complements so many looks—whether I’m going for a casual day out or a more polished evening vibe. It’s rich, long-lasting, and feels comfortable on my lips, which means I don’t have to keep reapplying. This combination of quality and cause makes Viva Glam II a necessary addition to my makeup bag.
My Buying Guides on Mac Viva Glam Ii
When I decided to add MAC Viva Glam II to my makeup collection, I wanted to share my experience and tips to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Here’s everything I considered before buying and what I discovered along the way.
Why I Chose MAC Viva Glam II
I was looking for a lipstick that combines a subtle, everyday shade with a bit of personality. MAC Viva Glam II caught my eye because it’s a muted mauve with a satin finish—perfect for both work and casual outings. Plus, knowing that every purchase supports the MAC AIDS Fund made me feel good about my buy.
Understanding the Shade and Finish
The color is a muted pinkish-mauve that complements a wide range of skin tones. I found it flattering whether I wore minimal makeup or a full glam look. The satin finish means it’s not too glossy or too matte, striking a nice balance that feels comfortable on my lips all day.
Application and Wear
Applying Viva Glam II is easy—the bullet is smooth and glides on without tugging. I recommend exfoliating your lips beforehand for the best look. On me, it lasted about 4-5 hours with minimal touch-ups, and it fades evenly rather than patchily, which I really appreciate.
Price and Value
MAC lipsticks are an investment, and Viva Glam II is priced in the mid-range for MAC products. Considering the quality, the beautiful shade, and the charitable cause, I felt it was worth every penny. Plus, the packaging is sleek and sturdy, making it travel-friendly.
Tips Before Buying
- If you can, try to swatch the lipstick in-store or get a sample to see how it works with your skin tone.
- Pair it with a lip liner in a similar shade for longer wear.
- Keep your lips moisturized as satin finishes can sometimes highlight dryness.
Final Thoughts
MAC Viva Glam II quickly became a staple in my makeup bag because it’s versatile, flattering, and supports a great cause. If you’re looking for a lipstick that’s both everyday wearable and meaningful, I highly recommend giving it a try!
Author Profile
-
I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
Latest entries
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Under Cupboard Can Opener: A Game-Changer for My Kitchen!
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Heating Pads for My Chair: Here’s What I Found!
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Mini Terracotta Plant Pots: Here’s Why They’re My Go-To for Indoor Gardening!
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Bay Window Seat Pads: My Ultimate Guide to Comfort and Style!