Touting the tagline “Bigger Than Beauty,” Thrive Causemetics has made its mark by promoting cosmetics that make a difference. Not only does the brand feature a wide array of skincare and makeup products that are promoted as cruelty-free and vegan, it also upholds the promise to donate to various charities for every product purchased, which range in price from from $22 to $56.

But it wasn’t just the brand’s wholesome mission that piqued my interest; it also has a loyal customer base that swears by its products, specifically the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara, which has even garnered praise from the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab (it was named the best tubing mascara for defined lashes). With all of the hype surrounding Thrive Causemetics, I knew I had to try it out for myself.

With claims that it is sweat-proof and waterproof and can last up to 12 hours of wear, the EmpowerMatte Precision Lipstick Crayon had a lot to live up to. Upon my first application of the shade Ghizlan, a plum mauve hue that retails for $28, I immediately noticed that it glided onto my lips smoothly and left them feeling plump and hydrated. I was also impressed with the color payoff, which was bold and opaque with a velvet-matte finish that didn't dry my lips.