Finding Alternatives to Your Favorite Discontinued MAC Lipstick Shades -

If you’re a beauty enthusiast, there’s nothing quite as heartbreaking as discovering your go-to MAC lipstick has been discontinued. MAC Cosmetics has a knack for creating iconic shades that become staples in our makeup bags, only to retire them and leave us scrambling for alternatives. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Below, I’m diving into some of the most beloved discontinued MAC lipstick shades and recommending alternatives from brands you can snag at Sephora.

MAC Mocha
What It Was: A warm, medium-dark peachy brown nude in the Satin finish, Mocha was a cult favorite, especially for warm olive and medium-to-deeper skin tones. Its creamy texture and versatile hue made it a daily essential for many.
Why We Miss It: Discontinued in recent years (with fans lamenting its loss), Mocha’s unique balance of warmth and neutrality is hard to replicate.
Sephora Alternatives:
Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Plush Matte Lipstick in “Spanked” ($20)
A dusty rose with warm undertones, this matte lippie offers a similar peachy-brown vibe. It’s slightly less satin-like but delivers rich pigmentation that suits a wide range of skin tones. Available at Sephora.
Sephora Collection #LIPSTORIES Lipstick in “Date Prep” ($9)
This budget-friendly option leans into a warm, peachy nude territory. The formula is creamy with a soft sheen, mimicking Mocha’s satin finish. A steal for everyday wear!

MAC Fleshpot
What It Was: A pale nude with a hint of peach in the Satin finish, Fleshpot was the ultimate Y2K throwback shade—think concealer lips with a chic twist. It was recently re-released in MAC’s 2024 Lipstick Bringbacks collection but remains limited edition.
Why We Miss It: Its unique “barely there” look was a staple for minimalist makeup lovers and a TikTok darling among vintage MAC fans.
Sephora Alternatives:
Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick in “1995” ($39)
This soft beige nude has a velvety matte finish that echoes Fleshpot’s understated elegance. It’s slightly warmer but perfect for that pared-down lip look. Available at Sephora USA.
Too Faced Lady Bold Cream Lipstick in “Barely Nude” ($28)
A creamy, pale nude with a touch of peach, this option brings a similar vibe to Fleshpot with a hydrating formula. It’s a great pick for a satin-like feel.

MAC Half N Half
What It Was: A muted, rosy beige in the Amplified finish, Half N Half was a fan favorite for its creamy, full-coverage payoff. It was perfect for toning down brighter lipsticks or wearing solo.
Why We Miss It: Discontinued around 2023, its versatility and rich texture made it a makeup artist go-to that’s sorely missed.
Sephora Alternatives:
NARS Audacious Lipstick in “Anita” ($34)
A dusty rose with a creamy, semi-matte finish, Anita captures Half N Half’s rosy-beige essence. It’s luxurious and long-wearing—ideal for a polished look. Available at Sephora USA.
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in “Nude Beige” ($45)
This silky, satin-finish nude leans slightly rosier but offers the same creamy coverage and subtle sophistication. A splurge-worthy swap!

MAC Please Me
What It Was: A muted rose with a Matte finish, Please Me was a universally flattering pink that worked across skin tones. Its discontinuation left fans in a frenzy.
Why We Miss It: The perfect “my lips but better” shade with a velvety texture—it was a no-brainer for everyday wear.
Sephora Alternatives:
Make Up For Ever Artist Rouge Matte Lipstick in “M102” ($23)
A soft, muted pink with a matte finish, this shade mirrors Please Me’s effortless charm. It’s lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. Available at Sephora USA.
Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Drama Matte Lipstick in “274 Peut-Être” ($35)
This rosy nude matte offers a similar vibe with a touch more warmth. The formula is creamy yet long-lasting, making it a solid stand-in.

MAC Twig (Original Formula)
What It Was: A soft, muted brownish-pink in the Satin finish, Twig was a ’90s icon that fans swear changed slightly with reformulations before being phased out in some markets.
Why We Miss It: Its perfect balance of brown and pink made it a timeless neutral that paired with everything.
Sephora Alternatives:
Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in “1993” ($19)
A medium brown with pink undertones in a cream finish, this shade channels Twig’s retro-cool vibe. It’s hydrating and versatile—available at Sephora USA.
Tarte Color Splash Lipstick in “Salt Lyfe” ($21)
A muted mauve-brown with a creamy finish, this option nails Twig’s understated elegance. It’s a hydrating pick for daily wear.

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