It all started with a Google Doc, which outlined the products she uses to keep her skin clear. Rio now writes about beauty products full-time. She’s not a professional, she’s just crazy.
Photo: Rio Viera-Newton
When I fall in love with a lipstick, I’m always tempted to buy duplicates so that I’ll have one on me at all times. In an ideal world, I’d have my favorite lipstick in my bathroom, one in my work tote, and one in my tiny night-out baguette purse — that way, I can easily throw on my perfect shade for a quick pick-me-up when needed. But the truth is a lot of my go-to lipsticks are a little too expensive to casually stock up on — Charlotte Tilbury’s “Very Victoria,” for example (which, I might add, is the perfect pink-brown shade for every day), costs about $30. The price is justifiable as a onetime indulgence but feels pretty excessive when you’re checking out with three.
However, if there’s one thing I know from my years writing about beauty, it’s that products don’t have to be expensive in order to be excellent. And so my hunt for the best wallet-friendly lipsticks began. After many weeks sleuthing around drugstore makeup aisles, asking followers on Instagram, and testing a ridiculous amount of lip products, I was able to find five incredible lipsticks — from a shiny, smudgy balm to a bright-red matte — all of which are under $10. That way, if you fall head over heels, you can buy another for your purse without breaking the bank.
ColourPop Blotted Lip
$8
$8
As soon as I tried these matte blotted lipsticks from ColourPop, I found myself reaching for them on the daily. If you’re a fan of the smudgy, effortless lipstick look (think Glossier Gen G or Ohii Lip Smudge), chances are you’ll love these creamy, sheer lipsticks just as much as I do. The formula is super-buttery and comfortable, so you won’t get that powdery, dehydrated feeling that some matte lipsticks leave behind, but it still manages to give off the perfectly lived-in, smudgy effect. These are lightly buildable, so one swipe is ultrasheer, while four give you a more intense (but definitely still casual and low-maintenance ) look. My favorite shade is “Shook,” a bright magenta that is absolutely perfect for summer.
$8
at ColourPop
Elf Sheer Slick Lipstick
$5
$5
These lipsticks were recommended to me by someone on Instagram, and I’ve been obsessed since the moment I tried one. Interestingly, Elf’s Sheer Slick lipsticks are not quite as … sheer as I expected them to be — they do give off quite a bit of pigment in one single swipe. However, they’re extremely glossy and balmy (I suspect this has to do with the meadowfoam-seed oil and vitamin E in the formula) and are still pretty low fuss; you won’t need to touch up the edges after you apply it, and you could probably throw it on without looking in the mirror. This is a great lipstick to have in your purse at all times, as it’s shiny and undemanding enough to throw on before a lunch meeting but pigmented enough to wear to a dinner or drinks with friends. My favorite shades are “Jam or Jelly,” a pink berry shade, and “Wild Peach,” a brown-pink shade.
$5
at E.L.F. Cosmetics
ColourPop Lippie Stix in ‘Trust Me’
$7
$7
Another heavy hitter from ColourPop, which I’m starting to think may be my very favorite affordable-makeup brand. Anyway, this velvety bright-red lipstick, “Trust Me,” is the perfect blue-red shade for nights out or when you want to dress up your jeans and T-shirt before dinner. It’s not necessarily transferproof — I wouldn’t compare it to my Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in “Uncensored,” which truly doesn’t budge — but I’m particularly fond of this lipstick because, despite it’s true matte finish, it isn’t the slightest bit drying on the lips. And the applicator is more of a pencil than a standard bullet lipstick, which makes it incredibly easy to apply — and as everyone knows, half the battle with red lipstick is putting it on properly.
$7
at Ulta Beauty$7
at ColourPop
Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Tinted Lip Balm
now 29% off
$5
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: Really? You’re including the lip balms we all used in high school on your favorite lipstick roundup? But I’m telling you: I bought one of these on a whim a few months ago and couldn’t believe how well this lip balm–meets–lip tint held up against my other pricey lip-stain products. Since it’s a Burt’s Bees chapstick, first and foremost it’s genuinely hydrating on the lips — you could apply this on your driest, most cracked lips and it’ll help moisturize them. But the tint itself is lovelier than I recalled: It gives off a shiny, soft pigment — a sort of your-lips-but-better effect — that is subtle enough for every day but pigmented enough to bring your makeup look together as a finishing touch. I love all of this balm’s shades, but my favorites are “Rose” (a pink shade), “Sweet Violet” (a berryish shade), and “Red Dahlia” (a dark-red shade.)
$5
at Amazon$5
at Walgreens
Flower Beauty in ‘Spiced Petal’
$9
$9
As I said before, my favorite Charlotte Tilbury lipstick is the brown-pink “Very Victoria,” but a close runner-up is the brand’s “Pillow Talk,” a slightly more pink-rosy shade that is one of the brand’s most beloved products. I’d read online somewhere that Flower Beauty’s “Spiced Petal” was a great dupe, and while I wouldn’t say it’s identical, if you like a dusty-rose, spicy-pink shade, this is a great affordable alternative. This lipstick is not as matte as Charlotte Tilbury’s — I’d say it’s more of a soft, cream finish — but it’s an excellent purse staple, as you can tap it onto your lips for a soft, dusty-rose tint and build it up for the perfect neutral evening lip.
$9
at Ulta Beauty$8
at Flower BeautyActually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts.
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Updated on
Feb 22, 2024
Written by Sayantani Deb , Makeup & Beauty Writer
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process
Peep into a woman’s makeup vanity and boom, you will find that it is populated with favorite lipsticks of every shade for all occasions. However, finding the perfect one is no less than a daunting task, especially when you are tight on your budget. So, we have got you covered with the best drugstore lipsticks.
Such lipsticks are easy on the pocket but trust us, they offer enchanting results just as the high-end brands. Our contributor Maya Adivi, a certified makeup artist, says, “I think there are a lot of drugstore lipsticks that are just as good as high-end ones! From Maybelline to Essence, there are a lot of drugstore lipsticks with beautiful colors, formulas, and longevity. That said, I do find that the packaging is a lot more elegant when shopping high-end, but that doesn’t make drugstore lipsticks less charismatic.”
Drawing from our experiences, drugstore lipsticks are available in a variety of types, shades, formulations, and finishes to suit your needs and personal preferences. You will find drugstore liquid lipsticks for some affordable yet commendable glam, long-wear lipsticks to rock your pout throughout the day, and matte lipsticks to suit all of your everyday sassy looks.
Let us also tell you that drugstore lipsticks are a great addition to the lip products that you have been using for months as some of them are loaded with the goodness of vitamins and oils. Having said that, considering factors like color payoff, texture, finish, formula, pigmentation, and wear, we have created a comprehensive list of the finest lipsticks for you.
Come along with us to check out all of the budget-friendly options and explore the world of astounding drugstore lipsticks! We bet you won’t leave empty-handed!
This lipstick is bound to make you fall in love with its creamy and sheer finish. Living up to its name, Revlon’s Super lustrous lipstick adds the perfect bling to your lips while keeping them moisturized with avocado oil and vitamin E. It comes in many shades that are suitable for various skin tones. And the best part is, its formula is also highly pigmented and long-lasting, making it the best fit for everyday use!
Pros
Cons
If you are looking for a lipstick that stays on your lips all day long without smudging or smearing, then your search ends with L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche lipsticks. This range comes in a variety of gorgeous creamy and super-pigmented shades that can be worn for an everyday look or for creating bold statement looks. It’s infused with the goodness of argan oil and vitamin E to keep your lips hydrated and plump.
Pros
Cons
Cult’s favorite for all the right reasons, this crayon lipstick by Maybelline comes with a precise tip, so you can outline and fill your lips with the same product. It has a rich and creamy formula that glides like butter. You will love its long-lasting formula that doesn’t smudge or fade even for long hours. The Super Stay Ink crayon lipstick comes in numerous shade options, all so astounding that it is hard to choose just one.
Pros
Cons
This one’s for my matte lover girlies! Made to create the flawless dream pout, NYX’s Lip Lingerie XXL is the best drugstore liquid lipstick, which stays on your lips for up to 16 hours and doesn’t crack or fade. It has multiple color options to choose from that complement all skin tones and occasions. It has a creamy formula for easy application and a smooth finish. The cherry on top is that the lipstick is also vegan and cruelty-free. It comes in small bottles that will surely fit your pocket and budget.
Pros
Cons
Who doesn’t love lipstick that’s made with ingredients that your lips will love? Made with natural and hydrating ingredients like beeswax, moringa oil, raspberry seed oil, and vitamin E, Burt’s Bees’ Natural moisturizing lipstick gives the perfect satin finish. It lasts up to 8 hours and comes in beautiful shades, varying from everyday nudes to classic reds and everything in between. Another reason to buy it — the lipstick does not contain parabens, phthalates, or petrolatum.
Pros
Cons
Infused with SPF 25, L'Paige lipsticks are also hypo-allergenic so people with sensitive skin don’t have to worry. They come in a frosted finish and different shades that go well with various skin tones. What’s more? It is formulated with aloe vera and beeswax for keeping your lips moisturized and full. We loved how smoothly this lipstick goes on the lips! It is truly lightweight as well, making it perfect for everyday use!
Pros
Cons
Another astounding range of matte lipstick on our list, this one surely needs a place in your makeup box. It applies smoothly and dries to give a soft matte finish that won’t crack or transfer and will surely stay on your lips for 8-12 hours. It gets its moisturizing silky formula from jojoba oil and vitamin E which will give your lips the care and nourishment they deserve. Also, as one of the best drugstore matte lipsticks, Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick is vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free too, in case you are not convinced already.
Pros
Cons
Made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that your lips will love, this lipstick from Gabriel Cosmetics is a hidden gem. It comes in a diverse range of shades with a velvety finish that is guaranteed to look good on whoever applies it. It has a long-lasting and enriching formula made with a petrochemical-free base of Candelilla wax and honest ingredients like jojoba seed and aloe vera. You surely won’t have to worry about chapped lips or faded lipstick after using this product.
Pros
Cons
A hydrating creamy-finish lipstick, that comes in the coolest packaging? Yes, please! Unhesitatingly a great pick as it is super pigmented and lasts on your lips all day long. It comes in 35 impressive shades which is enough to pick an everyday favorite or the perfect date night lip combo. It is made with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and avocado oil so your lips feel and look moisturized even with a single swipe.
Pros
Cons
This might be your go-to lipstick crayon from now, as it acts as both a lip liner and a lipstick. Also a great choice if you don’t want to go for liquid lipsticks but still want something in a matte and cream finish. It provides smooth and full coverage for up to 12 hours and doesn’t smudge or smear. It's lightweight and moisturizing and perfect if you love to play around with various shades to achieve a bold and different color.
Pros
Cons
This set of liquid matte lipstick from Aromi comes in unique bold shades perfect for every mood. It has a long-lasting formula that stays put and doesn’t crack even after long hours of wearing. What’s the best part? It also comes in a few beautiful metallic shades that are perfect for party looks. Topping it all off, this enchanting lipstick is cruelty-free so that your lips and environment both are loved.
Pros
Cons
The classic, never disappointing, Charlotte Tilbury’s matte revolution lipstick is truly a revolution in drugstore lipsticks. The application creates the illusion of fuller lips thanks to its 3D glowing pigments. It comes in a matte finish and has a unique square tip that works like a lip brush. Made with soothing and moisturizing ingredients without parabens, it glides easily on your lips and stays on for up to 10 hours. If you miss buying this, you are at a great loss!
Pros
Cons
While on our quest to find the best drugstore long-lasting lipstick, we bumped into this one from Bossy Cosmetics. This perfect shade is a combination of everything that is bright, bold, and beautiful. Enriched with vitamin E and vegetal glycerol, it replenishes your lips and protects it against free radicals. Secondly, it has an extra matte finish that’s comfortable and ideal for everyday wear. We agree with the Amazon reviewer who said that it doesn’t smear and its rich pigmentation is highly appreciated.
Pros
Cons
That was our comprehensive list of the best drugstore lipsticks. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.
Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best drugstore lipstick:
Ingredients: First things first — Make sure you pay heed to the list of ingredients before snagging up a good drugstore lipstick. Based on our observation, lipsticks that are enriched with lip-nourishing and hydrating ingredients like fruit extracts, vitamin E, glycerol, avocado oil, shea butter, mango butter, coconut oil, or moringa oil tend to be more moisturizing, just like Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick.
Sharing her take on the ingredients of drugstore lipsticks, our contributor Maya Adivi says, “There aren’t any specific ingredients to avoid in lipsticks. Drugstore brands are usually quite reputable, which means you can trust them to only contain safe ingredients. I do recommend watching out for any ingredients you know you’re allergic to.”
Formula: Now let’s talk about formula! Check the formula of the best long-lasting drugstore lipstick that you are getting your hands on. It is recommended to pick those that are non-toxic, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens, sulfates, glutens, and other harsh ingredients, like the NYX Professional Makeup’s Lip Lingerie XXL.
Texture: The next important aspect to consider is the texture of the long-lasting drugstore lipstick that you shortlisted for yourself. Ensure that the lipstick possesses an easy-to-glide texture for mess-free application. In addition, it should be light on your lips, pigmented, and comfortable. Based on our findings, it is also wise to pick those that also have a creamy, smooth, and non-clumpy texture just like L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche.
Shade Range And Skin Types: Next, snatch a glimpse of all the shades that lipstick has to offer. You may choose a nude drugstore lipstick for minimalistic, subtle, or neutral makeup looks. It looks best on those who have fair skin tones in addition to pink lipsticks. Whereas you may rely on bold shades like brown, red, dark pink, etc to rock your party avatar. These shades particularly look great on those with darker skin tones or medium skin tones. You can check out URBAN DECAY Vice Hydrating Lipstick which is available in 35 impressive shades to compliment all your makeup looks throughout the year.
Finish Type: Lastly, analyze the finish type of your lipstick. Check whether it has a matte, semi-matte, sheer, or glossy finish. You may choose any from glossy, semi-matte, or matte drugstore lipsticks. Let us tell you that the finish type will impact your final look. For an opaque finish, you may consider URBAN DECAY Vice Hydrating Lipstick whereas matte lipstick lovers may fall in love with L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche.
Contributor: Maya Adivi, Certified Makeup artist, Click here for blog
Conclusion
That was all about the best drugstore lipsticks that you should think of investing in right away. We bet the prices of your favorite shades won’t ever haunt you, allowing you to pick one, two, or three in one go. After all, there is no limitation on the number of lipsticks that a woman can own. So, get your shopping spree started, lend your lips a pop of color, and steal the limelight effortlessly. Talking about our recommendations, you will love each one of them for their fantastic texture, coverage, and formulation. Starting from Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick with 3D glowing pigments and soothing and moisturizing formula to Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick’s natural lip-nourishing ingredients and full coverage — you shall never be disappointed.
How do you choose the best lipstick for your skin tone?
You may swatch it on your wrist or determine on the basis of your undertone. If you possess a cool undertone, then cooler shades will suit you the best. On the other hand, warm shades look more flattering on those with warm undertones.
What's the best way to apply lipstick to make it last?
You may apply a lip liner to make your lipstick last longer.
How do you choose the best lipstick to go with your makeup look?
Makeup look and complexion go hand in hand. For those with a pale complexion pick pink-toned lipsticks. Mauve tones are best for medium skin whereas berry tones are suitable for those that have darker complexion.
Are drugstore lipsticks of good quality, or do they lack in performance?
No, drugstore lipsticks never lack in performance, instead, they deliver high-end results.
Are drugstore lipsticks long-lasting, or do they require frequent reapplication?
It depends on the formulation. But usually, they are long-lasting and do not require frequent reapplication.
Can I find cruelty-free and vegan options among drugstore lipsticks?
Yes, of course, there are a few of the best cruelty-free and vegan options to consider among drugstore lipsticks.
Our certified makeup and beauty expert, Sayantani, owns a huge collection of lipsticks and drugstore brands are often her go-to. To help you add the best of the best lipsticks, she went ahead and tried and tested a few, and then enlisted her top picks. Personally, she is quite impressed with Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick which is highly pigmented, long-lasting, and enriched with lip-nourishing ingredients. If you wish to get the best bang for your buck just like her, consider splurging on her top recommendations without any second thoughts.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
Sayantani Deb
Makeup & Beauty Writer
Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More