Best Matte
The first thing we noticed about this Maybelline lipstick is the slim design, which, as it turns out, is very helpful when applying a matte formula because it goes on exactly where you want it. The second thing we want to call out is the powdery texture that’s somehow not drying and diffuses softly into your lips, blurring any fine lines in the process. Not sure which shade to try first? We love “More Blush,” for a pop of pink that’s just bright enough to make us look more awake before early meetings.
Shiniest Finish
If you’re looking for high-voltage shine, this liquid lipstick definitely delivers. Richly pigmented and easy to apply thanks to the reservoir tip applicator, you get full coverage color in a few swipes. And, true to its name, your lips will be coated in a vinyl like finish that makes your pout pop.
Cleanest Formula
One of the main knocks on liquid lipsticks is that they can be drying. This one is surprisingly hydrating while still holding its own in longevity. A closer look at the ingredients and you’ll see coconut alkanes and pine rosin, two natural ingredients that the brand swapped in place of synthetic solvents and film formers that are typically included in many liquid formulas on the market. Combined with avocado oil and hyaluronic acid, it's truly the first liquid lipstick we've tried that doesn't turn our lips into desiccated prunes after a few hours.
Smoothest Application
From a flattering nude to the cheery pink you see above, you can’t go wrong with any of the 20 shades in this collection. Available in both cream and matte finishes, you’ll appreciate the way the formula glides across your lips as you apply it.
Longest Lasting
This lipstick does not play around. Highly pigmented with an impressive staying power that lasts through multiple sips and meals, it’s quickly become a favorite during the pandemic because it doesn’t smear all over the insides of your face mask. Just make sure you let it fully dry for a minute or so before you head out. Available in 40 shades.
Coolest Texture
This fluffy lip mousse feels light-as-a-cloud as you put it on your lips. Super soft and supple to the touch, you can just as easily wear it as a subtle stain as you can build it to a fully saturated statement color. Loaded with argan and avocado oils, vitamin E, and sodium hyaluronate, it hugs your lips in moisture, while smoothing the appearance of fine lines.
Best Crayon
We’re big fans of lip crayons because they’re fun to use and easy to apply without a mirror. This one from Burt’s Bees is a longtime favorite because it has a creamy glide, good pigmentation and is comfortable to wear thanks to jojoba and kendo oil in the formula. The fact that the packaging is 100 percent recyclable is the icing on the cake.
Best Sheer
If you prefer just a hint of color and a lot of shine, this is the lipstick for you. Formulated with over 60 percent oils, it truly does melt into your lips as soon as you apply it. Though it’s not made to last for hours like some of the others on this list, what it lacks in longevity, it makes up for in flattering shine.
Best Stain
A K-beauty classic, this lip tint feels smooth and light as you first put it on your lips, and it stays that way long after you apply it. The matte finish is velvety rather than dry and despite the light-as-air texture, it delivers an impressive punch of color. (Tip: Try dabbing a little onto the center of your lips and blend the color outward to get that popsicle stain effect.)
Best Budget
Are you kidding us with that three-dollar price tag, e.l.f? Get all the bang for your buck with this silky-smooth lipstick. Choose from 10 shades ranging from a warm nude to a deep berry (and multiple shades of pink and red in-between). Either way, you’ll be delighted by the color payoff and the creamy application.
Fan Favorite
Another affordable pick, this fan favorite by Milani comes in over 30 shades to fit any mood or occasion and offers a satisfying amount of color payoff in each tube. Though it’s not the most moisturizing pick on the list, it still wears comfortably on your lips thanks to vitamins A and C in the formula.
Best Pigmentation
If you’re looking to rock a statement lip, this The Lip Bar Matte Liquid Lipstick will deliver in spades. A few swipes with the soft, flocked wand will get you fully opaque color (and likely a few compliments from friends). Choose from 17 curated shades that look good on a range of skin tones.
Best All Around
Guys, this lipstick has over 4,000 glowing reviews on Ulta (and another 13,000+ on Amazon). Let those numbers sink in for a second. Fans praise it for its super-saturated color, creamy application, and matte-but-never-flat finish. Psst, if you’re on the hunt for a classic red, try “Perfect Red,” which lives up to its name.
