Lipstick is undoubtedly one of the most beloved beauty products of all time. Not only does lipstick enhance a woman’s attractiveness, but it also helps moisturize and protect the health of your lips. With many products on the market, it can be difficult to find which ones will give you a perfect finish or will last through your busy day.
Below you will find our 10 best lipsticks and a buying guide reviewed by a makeup artist that will cover some additional tips and tricks to consider when looking at your choices. Our number one choice is the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick for its color and classic look. Keep reading to find that perfect lipstick to complete your look!
Quick List - Top Lipsticks
Revlon
Vibrant and Creamy with Long-lasting Moisture
Natalya is a professional makeup artist based in Los Angeles and has been trying new products to find what is best for each individual's skin tone and type. She is self-taught but wanted to further her education, and she went to a makeup school in Los Angeles to learn the ins and outs of makeup. She has tried many makeup brands and products and can proudly say she has found some of the best and longest-wearing products. As a freelance makeup artist, she wants her clients not to worry about their makeup not lasting as long as they need it to.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
To find the right lipstick, it's all about your preference! The type of finish, suitable ingredients, and your skin tone are all key factors you should think about.
A major part of picking out lipstick is the right finish. Every occasion is different, yet you may want a comfortable one for everyday wear that doesn't dry your lips. Whether you have a formal event or are lounging around the house, there are plenty of options! Below we cover the basics of each finish: satin and sheer, matte, creamy, and glossy.
If you have dry lips, your best friends will be satin and sheer lipsticks. Usually, there are moisturizing ingredients like mineral oil, argan oil, beeswax, and many others to help give your lips a glossy look and seal the hydration in.
However, you should expect to re-apply these types of products because the color may not last as long because of the high oil content more so than pigment. But if you are in need of something for everyday wear and comfortable to keep your lips smooth, try out these finishes first.
Matte lipstick is suitable for those who love vibrant and bold looks and need it to endure a long day or night out. It is the complete opposite of shine, so if you are looking for a glossy look, these may not be for you. The color is highly pigmented so the application must be careful enough that it will produce a smooth, even finish.
If you want to keep your lips nourished with a high color payoff, look for matte lipsticks infused with vitamin E or omega-6 as these ingredients will give your lips a healthy dose of hydration. If not, you could simply apply a lip balm at least 15 minutes prior to your lipstick application to keep your foundation supple.
Cream lipstick is a great option to give you a flawless, smooth set of lips. Cream lipstick has more wax compared to others to protect your lips and give color long-lasting wear with less room to budge. These lipsticks are perfect for a professional or nice event when you don't have to worry about it moving around.
If you want that juicy, luscious feel, then we recommend lipstick with a gloss finish. For those with lips on the smaller and thinner end of the spectrum, you should consider using gloss lipsticks as they are made to enhance the curve of your lips and give them volume.
Many tend to combine both gloss and matte lipstick for a more vivid color and a plump effect. No matter the size of your lips, these can always be an option just to give them a healthy shine.
A gloss adds youthfulness and attractiveness to the lip. Lip gloss became popular during the 90s for most teens and twenties. Now, they're being created way better than they have years before without the sticky, thick consistency. A gloss adds confidence and a subtle eye-catching look.
Lip gloss can be applied to young teens who are at the appropriate stage to start wearing makeup. A simple clear gloss can be worn for any age to add a simple pop. The term "my lip gloss is poppin" describes the plumpness the product adds and the reflected light shining from every direction on the lips.
The ingredients matter since lips are sensitive and can absorb your lipstick easily. Therefore, you'll want to find ingredients that can not only nourish but also protect the health of your lips. As mentioned before, lipsticks typically consist of oils, plant-based butters, or other emollients that can provide your lips what they need.
Specific waxes and butters you can keep a lookout for are beeswax, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, cocoa butter, shea butter, avocado oil, and coconut oil. There are also antioxidants such as rosemary extract, neem oil, and Vitamin E that offer an incredible amount of nourishment to your lips, especially if they are dehydrated and dull.
If you have known allergies, you'll want to read the label and make sure there are not any hidden ingredients that could cause you to break out. Also, if you are sensitive to smell or certain fragrances, you'll probably want to go for a lipstick that is free of any scent to be on the safe side.
However, if these are no concern for you then there are plenty of options out there that are infused or flavored if that is an attractive, cosmetic addition you'd like.
Some lip products can suck moisture and take away the natural state of your lips. Knowing which ingredients are good for the lips can protect the lips from the sun, wind, and other aging effects. Some lip products use essential oils for a luscious, healthy look.
Having dry lips can easily ruin your day and having to apply a lip product that is not beneficial to the lips can cause them to become even drier and chapped. Essential oils that are added to lip products are famous for their soothing, calming effects on the lips.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick|Love That Red 725, 2 pack | ![]() | Vibrant and Creamy with Long-lasting Moisture | |
2 | L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour|Fairest Nude | ![]() | Moisturizing Lipstick with Varying Shades | |
3 | Maybelline SuperStay Matter Ink|65 Seductress | ![]() | A Liquid Matte Lipstick That Lasts All Day | |
4 | NYX Butter Gloss|Creme Brulee | ![]() | Glossy Lips with Sumptous Colors | |
5 | Neutrogena MoistureSmooth Color Stick|Soft Raspberry | ![]() | A Tinted Lip with Nourishing Fruit Extracts | |
6 | Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lipcolor|Bare Maximum 350 | ![]() | Liquid Lip Color and Gloss Combo | |
7 | Lime Crime Velvetines Liquid Matte Lipstick|Teddy Bear | ![]() | Richly Pigmented and French-Vanilla Infused | |
8 | NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick|Perfect Red | ![]() | Plush and Matte with Rich Color | |
9 | Wet n Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Lipstick|Missy and Fierce | ![]() | Glides On With Intense Color | |
10 | Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick|Blush Basin | ![]() | Luscious Feel and Color for Everyday Wear |
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick has gained a large number of followers since its release. The lipstick formula has avocado oil and vitamin E, which provide your lips with supple moisture. It uses microfine pigment to deliver bold color while maintaining its lightweight feel when applied to the lips.
There are mixed reviews on the color payout of this product; some believe that the color is not the same as what is advertised, however, life-long customers who are satisfied with the color say this lipstick cannot be beaten and always gives a classic look to your face.
With high moisturizing effects and natural colors, this L'Oreal lipstick can give your lips a bright and lively look. It utilizes omega 3, vitamin E, and argan oil to smooth your lips in a matte, creamy finish. When you apply, its soft and melting texture will make you feel luxurious without the stickiness.
Some reviewers warn that it will come off with any contact, so be prepared to reapply throughout the day or apply an extra protective coat. However, there are many who are satisfied with how smooth it applies and the color payout at its affordable price.
If you're looking for a lipstick that doesn't budge once you put it on, this is it. It can last for up to 16 hours straight, so you can eat, sleep and enjoy your full day without the worry of smearing. Because of its strong staying power, it is advised to use an oil-based remover to take it off.
Some users warn that for those who have dry lips, this lipstick may crack if applied and dried. On the other hand, there are those who say that the color is highly-pigmented and love that there are a ton of shades ranging from natural to bold and bright.
Containing ingredients like mineral oil, NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss provides lasting moisture to your lips, making them smooth without the tacky feeling. It delivers sheer to medium coverage for those lighter days and comes in varying scents.
Some reviewers say the consistency can feel thick and gooey if not applied in a thin layer. However, others love how hydrated their lips feel, that it gives a nice shine and intense color, and gives off a sweet scent, depending on which one you choose.
The formula includes fruit extract and shea butter, which provide your lips with ample moisture. Even after you remove the product, your lips will still feel hydrated and smooth! It comes in a twist-up case which makes it convenient for on-the-go.
Although the twist-up case is nice, some warn it is easy to break off the tip if you are not careful enough. Many enjoy this product as it is smooth to glide on and is the perfect go-between a natural, yet still professional look. Some say it lives up to the hype in that it leaves your lips feeling soft and hydrated even after removal.
This lip gloss-and-color duo has gained love from the beauty community due to its intense shades that can last up to 16 hours. The topcoat is enriched with vitamin E and chamomile to prevent the color from bleeding. To apply, start with the first layer of lip color and allow it to dry. Then, add the gloss to seal it in with shine.
There are some who were not satisfied with the top layer coat claiming that it makes their lips flaky and patchy, so if you already have drier lips this may not be the best formula for you. Those who love this product can attest to its long-wear power without having to reapply throughout the day.
If you love a bold, matte finish, Lime Crime's line of Velvetine liquid lipsticks is a great starting point. Their French-vanilla-infused formula glides on and then dries to a velvet-like matte finish that lasts for hours without transfer. Make sure to apply lip balm at least 15 minutes prior to use and remove it with an oil-based cleanser.
Some customers say that the application process can be tricky and for those who are traveling, it is not a quick product to use. If not applied carefully, it can become flaky and uneven. For those who have mastered it, however, they love how long the color lasts and how lightweight it feels.
If you're in need of a matte lipstick that doesn't dry your lips out and keeps them feeling silky smooth, look no further. NYX offers a wide variety of shades that will glide on and stay in place, even after hours of wear. Along with their lipsticks, they have other lip products to give you what they call "the perfect pout."
Some customers claim the formula is hard to evenly apply and that it can become splotchy in certain areas if you aren't careful. However, there are many who love it because it does stay true to its matte form and lasts throughout the day, even if it is not overly hydrating.
Wet n Wild's Megalast Catsuit Liquid Lipstick is perfect for those who like a lightweight formula that glides on but dries into a matte finish. It claims to have a strong staying power that will last all day while moisturizing your lips and without worry for reapplication. With eight beautiful shades of red and pink, you'll surely be able to find the perfect one to coordinate your outfit with.
Some buyers say that the formula is a bit drying and can make your lips crack if not applied with a balm underneath. On the flip side, reviewers say the colors live up to their high pigment expectation and do not budge in a day or night out.
This award-winning, moisturizing lipstick comes in 18 amazing shades. It is packed full of hydrating ingredients like raspberry seed oil, moringa oil, and vitamin E. Your lips are guaranteed to feel soft for up to eight hours and be enhanced with color all day.
It is said by some customers that the color is not as bold as they'd like it to be and that it feels more like a chapstick. However, for those same reasons, there are others who seem to love that the colors are more neutral and natural in the application. If you want a product that is lightweight and buildable, this is for you.
I have learned over the past years what lip products last me the longest when on set, stage, or wedding days. Ofra is a long-lasting liquid lipstick that has been my go-to lip for about two years now because I find that it is not super drying and truly long-lasting.
I first heard about this product when I went to makeup school. I now have every color of this lip product and swear by it! I have had no problems at all so far with this lip for any of my clients or myself. However, I would not recommend this as much to someone who has chapped lips because it does not hide the texture. I always moisturize the lip before applying this lip to secure a softer and lighter look. I love to use this over the entire lip and sometimes love to add a gloss over top.
Chances are that you may know which shades suit you best, but in case you're a novice, here's a good place to start. With makeup, it's always fun to experiment with color until you find something you like!
An important step in choosing the right lipstick shade is to determine your skin tone, undertone, and what will complement both. There are four types of skin tones that change according to the season: fair, medium, dark, and deep. The undertone refers to the base of your skin color: warm, cool, and neutral.
When determining your undertone, look at the color of your veins on the inside of your wrist. If your veins are blue or purple and you burn easily under the sun, you likely have a cool undertone and a fair skin tone. Green veins and an easy tan indicate that you may have a warm undertone on the medium to dark skin tone spectrum.
If neither fit you, you probably fall under the neutral undertone category. A good rule of thumb is to remember that your undertone should match the shade of lipstick you choose. Warm undertones will match to warmer shades, cooler undertones will look flattering in cooler shades, and neutral undertones can go either way.
For cooler undertones, look for a lipstick with a blue or purple undertone such as a deep bluish-red lip color instead of one that leans more orange. For a nude lip, go with a rosy pink or taupe to keep it subtle but confident to match your skin tone. As for those with a warmer undertone, go for a bold orange, brick red, dark brown, or a richer nude shade.
With a neutral undertone, you can truly go either way and try varying shades of the spectrum to see what you prefer. Pink, mauve, and berry tones all fit within the fair, medium, and deep skin tones, so play around to see what you find flatters you the most!
However, with all of this in mind, don't forget to have fun and play around with any shade you want. There may be a certain color that you always use or tend to lean toward, but don't allow these rules to limit you from trying something new that you may end up loving.
Finding what colors work best for your skin tone should be done in the best natural lighting. it is easier for someone with a fair skin tone to look washed out. A more colorful lip can overpower the cool skin tone. Soft pink is best for a natural look, and a burnt orange or coral would be the best option for a bold lip for someone on the fairer side.
If still unsure of what skin tone you are, you can research celebrities with warm and cool tones. JLo would be a great example of someone with a warm skin tone. Warm tones have a hint of red and gold in the skin and tend to look better with gold jewelry. Neutral skin undertones have a mix of cool and warm tones; they can get darker in the sun or burn. Cool tones have hints of pink and blue on the skin and look best in silver jewelry.
If your lips are on the thinner side, chances are that deep shades like dark reds, purples, and browns may accentuate that aspect of your lips. Lighter colors like peach, light pink, or coral, on the other hand, could make your lips look more natural and plump.
If you already have larger lips, then you have a great canvas for bolder and darker colors that will make your lips the focal point of your makeup look. In contrast, lighter or paler shades could reduce their impact.
Of course, these all vary with your skin tone, and you should try to find something that truly compliments your overall finishing look.
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Natalya also took the time to answer a commonly-asked question about lipsticks.
Natalya explains, "Using a brush for application can help with making the lip last longer throughout the day. It packs the product on the lip. Using a lip liner not only to line the lips, but applying the liner on the entire lip will help to prevent smudging and last all day. Another tip would be to make sure to use straws when drinking drinks."
The makeup world doesn't stop with lipstick. Here are some other great products to complete your look!
No. 1: Revlon|Super Lustrous Lipstick|Love That Red 725, 2 pack
No. 2: L'Oreal Paris|Colour Riche Lipcolour|Fairest Nude
No. 3: Maybelline|SuperStay Matter Ink|65 Seductress
No. 4: NYX|Butter Gloss|Creme Brulee
No. 5: Neutrogena|MoistureSmooth Color Stick|Soft Raspberry
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices