Best Matte Lipstick

About Face Paint-It Matte Lip Color [13] ($8, originally $16)

The About Face Paint-It Matte Lip Color has a formula so light and flexible, you won't even feel it on your lips. It's an editor-favorite as well; read our in-depth About Face Paint-It Matte Lip Color review [14].

• Pros: Weightless feel, impressive color payoff, long-wearing, non-drying formula, peppermint oil for a moisturizing effect, mask-friendly (no smudging or fading)
• Cons: May require a steady hand during application due to its high pigment
• Type: Liquid lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Available in a wide range of bold, vivid hues
• Who it's best for: Anyone who wants high-impact color without the heavy or drying feel of traditional liquid lipsticks
• Extras: Infused with peppermint oil

Editor Quote: "The formula is so light and flexible, you can't even feel it on your mouth. And that pigment? Wow, the color payoff is impressive for such a weightless consistency. I also appreciate the touch of peppermint oil that keeps my lips moisturized. I wore this with my face mask over it for about 30 minutes, and the lipstick didn't smudge or fade. Clearly it's a winner." — Macy Cate Williams, former shopping content director

Best Tinted Lipstick

Maybelline Super Stay Teddy Matte Lip Tint [15] ($13)

Maybelline's Teddy Matte Lip Tint is one of the smoothest lipsticks on the market. One editor loves its buildable quality and staying power that lasts up to 12 hours. She even wore it while eating and drinking, and it didn't budge — it's that good. Read her Maybelline Super Stay Teddy Matte Lip Tint review [16] for more.

• Pros: Smooth, non-sticky texture, buildable color, extremely long-lasting (up to 12 hours), holds up through eating and drinking
• Cons: Limited shade range compared to some competitors
• Type: Lip tint
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Comes in various everyday tones
• Who it's best for: Anyone who wants low-maintenance, long-lasting color with a weightless feel
• Extras: Buildable pigment and easy application

Editor Quote: "The lip tint has an incredibly smooth texture that provides a seamless glide on the lips without feeling sticky and I didn't have to reapply because the color is so long-lasting. I also love that the hue I tried, Coquettish, delivered a gorgeous shade of red that's not too much for everyday wear, directly catering to my newfound obsession." — Naomi Parris, assistant shopping editor

Best Drugstore Lipstick

The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick [17] ($13)

The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bawse Lady is one editor's go-to red shade. The formula is smooth and soft, delivering a bold and pigmented matte finish without drying out the lips. It has staying power for up to eight hours. Read our The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick review [18].

• Pros: Smooth, soft application; bold pigment, long-lasting wear (up to eight hours), non-drying formula
• Cons: Deep red shade may require precise application to avoid feathering
• Type: Liquid lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Comes in a variety of bold shades
• Who it's best for: Anyone looking for a statement lip that lasts without compromising comfort
• Extras: Winner of the PS Beauty Award in 2021 [19]

Editor Quote: "Of all the reds I've tried — and there have been a lot — this has to be the one that gets the most use. It's made with a formula that applies so smoothly and doesn't leave my lips feeling parched, and the deep-red color really does something to me when it comes to bringing out my inner boss b*tch." — Danielle Jackson, former assistant beauty editor

Best Nude Lipstick

Ctzn Cosmetics Nudiversal Lip Duo [20] ($15)

Our editors agree — the Ctzn Cosmetics Nudiversal Lip Duo is our new favorite budge-proof lipstick formula. Each super-flattering color will last you from your first sip of coffee in the morning all the way to the end of dinner (and then some). One side of this dual-ended lipstick is a creamy matte lipstick, while the other side is a hydrating lip gloss, so you'll have a go-to nude for any occasion. Read our in-depth Ctzn Cosmetics Nudiversal Lip Duo review [21] for more.

• Pros: Long-lasting, budge-proof formula, dual-ended design with matte lipstick and gloss, moisturizing and lightweight
• Cons: Dual-ended packaging may not fit easily in small clutches or pockets
• Type: Lipstick and gloss duo
• Finish: Matte (lipstick side) and glossy (gloss side)
• Shades: Inclusive nude range designed to complement various skin tones
• Who it's best for: Those who want a versatile lip product for all-day wear and on-the-go touch-ups
• Extras: Cruelty-free

Editor Quote: "I only needed one swipe of the matte lipstick side of the lip duo for an opaque, bold color. The lipstick is velvety soft, moisturizing, and lightweight. Even though it has a matte finish, it did not feel drying at all. I noticed that the lipstick moved with my lips rather than giving that cracked look you traditionally get from matte liquid lipsticks." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant shopping editor

Best Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick [22] ($16)

The Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick has both moisture and staying power. It's a full-coverage, pigmented formula with a matte finish that will actually stain your lips for a flush of color the next day. It comes in so many different shades, including blues, greens, and more. The shade 78 Chili Pepper is also Jenna Lyons's go-to lipstick. Read our full Sephora Collection Cream Lip review [23].

• Pros: Moisturizing yet long-lasting, full-coverage pigment, user friendly applicator, wide shade range including bold, unconventional colors
• Cons: Can leave a stain even after removal, which might not appeal to everyone
• Type: Liquid lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Extensive variety — shade 78 Chili Pepper is a standout
• Who it's best for: Those who want a bold, long-lasting lip color with precise application and a soft, whipped texture
• Extras: Offers unexpected colors like blues and greens

Editor Quote: "It has a small doe-foot applicator that makes it easy to line your lips perfectly, especially the cupid's bow. The whipped, creamy texture of the lip cream spreads evenly and offers full coverage with a single swipe, but a second coat really punches up the color. It goes on smoothly but quickly dries to a matte finish." — Jessica Harrington, beauty section lead

Best Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick

Stila Stay All Day Long Wear Liquid Lipstick [24] ($24)

The Stila Stay All Day Long Wear Liquid Lipstick is not just an editor-favorite but also congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's go-to, specifically in the shade Beso. The long-lasting liquid lipstick has a matte finish but won't dry out the lips. Read our in-depth Stila Stay All Day Long Wear Liquid Lipstick review [25].

• Pros: Smooth, even application, rich pigment; long-lasting wear, non-drying matte finish
• Cons: Not fully transfer-proof, though still holds up well through eating and drinking
• Type: Liquid lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Various shades, including bold reds and pinks
• Who it's best for: Anyone looking for a reliable, high-impact liquid lipstick with staying power
• Extras: Editor- and AOC-approved.

Editor Quote: "The color applies so smoothly and evenly that I didn't need to swipe it over my lips more than once, and knowing how drying matte lipsticks can be, I love that this one didn't make my lips feel chapped or heavy. While it's not 100 percent transfer-proof, I was very impressed with its staying power and the way it was able to hold up even after eating and drinking throughout the day." — DJ

Best Sheer Lipstick

Clinique Almost Lipstick [26] ($25)

Clinique's Almost Lipstick in Black Honey has gone viral time and time again, and it's worth the hype. Although the shade looks different across skin tones, it's still very flattering. It offers sheer but buildable coverage that's in between a lipstick and a gloss. You can read more about the history of the iconic shade and see swatches on different skin tones in this Clinique Almost Lipstick review [27].

• Pros: Universally flattering shade, sheer yet buildable color, comfortable, balmy texture
• Cons: Not ideal for those seeking bold or highly pigmented color
• Type: Hybrid lipstick
• Finish: Sheer, balmy (between a gloss and lipstick)
• Shades: 2
• Who it's best for: Anyone who wants an effortless, everyday lip color that enhances their natural tone
• Extras: Viral favorite with a long history

Editor Quote: "Just one swipe was only a tad darker than my natural lip color. I found the application to be ultra smooth, and I loved that the color was buildable. Yes, it went on practically sheer, but I could add more if I wanted to. My only gripe with this product is that it didn't work well when I had chapped lips. As the brand suggests, it won't work in place of a lip balm but instead should be combined with one if you experience dry lips like I do." — Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer

Best Hydrating Lipstick

Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick [28] ($26)

The Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick has the pigment of a liquid lipstick, the feel of a lip balm, and the finish of a lip gloss. It has a buildable color payoff with a buttery soft, moisturizing texture, perfect for those who have dry lips. The lipstick has comfortable wear that is lightweight and flexible on the lips. Read our in-depth review of the Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick [29].

• Pros: Buttery soft and moisturizing, buildable, feels like a balm but delivers the payoff of a lipstick, lightweight and flexible on the lips
• Cons: Not ultra long-wearing compared to matte formulas so may require reapplication throughout the day
• Type: Traditional lipstick
• Finish: Soft satin (balm-meets-gloss look)
• Shades: Comes in wearable, elevated shades — editor favorites include Tiger (brick red), 1990 (deep brown), and L'Avenue (berry-brown)
• Who it's best for: Anyone with dry lips or someone who prefers a hydrating, low-maintenance lipstick with a natural finish
• Extras: Clean formula and luxe.

Editor Quote: "Merit's Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick is perfect for a night out and everyday use. This one product can replace your lip balm, lip gloss, and lipstick in your handbag. It has a lovely and elegant feel on the lips that feels hydrating and lightweight. The lipstick has a color payoff that lasts for quite some time, and it keeps my lips feeling conditioned." — AR

Best Satin Lipstick

Kulfi Heirloom Satin Lipstick [30] ($30)

The Heirloom Satin Lipstick from Kulfi is a must have for your makeup bag. It's a comfortable, hydrating lipstick with a satin finish that comes in seven flattering shades for all skin tones. The formula contains vitamin E and a candelilla wax blend, which gives it that moisturizing, smooth consistency. Read our full Kulfi lipstick review [31] for more information.

• Pros: Hydrating and smooth formula, enriched with vitamin E and candelilla wax, comfortable wear, flattering on a wide range of skin tones
• Cons: Limited shade range
• Type: Traditional lipstick
• Finish: Satin
• Shades: Seven
• Who it's best for: Those looking for a moisturizing, everyday lipstick with a soft, creamy finish
• Extras: Infused with nourishing ingredients

Editor Quote: "The shade First Sari is the perfect berry shade for me, but it's more approachable and wearable for everyday looks. If you want something that's flirty and cute but also is a more neutral vibe, First Sari is a versatile option." — AR

Best Buildable Lipstick

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick [32] ($35)

The Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick is famous for its cult-favorite Pillow Talk shade, but it also comes in a ton of universally flattering shades. It has a matte finish with a long-wearing, buildable formula. It's hydrating and pigmented, and it's the finishing touch to a glam look. Read our Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick review [33].

• Pros: Iconic shade range, hydrating matte finish, buildable, long-wearing formula, flattering on a wide variety of skin tones
• Cons: Higher price point, some may prefer more pigment in one swipe
• Type: Traditional lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Multiple universally flattering shades — Pillow Talk is best for lighter skin tones, while Pillow Talk Medium suits deeper complexions
• Who it's best for: Those looking for a luxe, everyday matte lipstick with a soft, natural finish
• Extras: Cult-favorite product

Editor Quote: "The Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick hasn't left my bag since I first got my hands on it six years ago. It's the perfect neutral for my naturally bright, pink lips and it matches with every makeup look." — JH

Best Suede Lipstick

Westman Atelier Lip Suede Hydrating Matte Lipstick [34] ($50)

Available in 15 shades ranging from deep brown to light peach, this hydrating matte lipstick from Westman Atelier is one of the most comfortable formulas we've tried. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid and meadowfoam extract to hydrate, while kaolin clay mattifies without feathering. Plus, it comes in sleek packaging with a magnetic top. Our editor loves the shade Pique, a taupe-y purple. Read our Westman Atelier Lip Suede Hydrating Matte Lipstick review [35] for more.

• Pros: Hydrating matte formula with skin care benefits, contains hyaluronic acid and meadowfoam extract, comfortable wear, sleek, magnetic packaging, doesn't feather
• Cons: Premium price point
• Type: Traditional lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Various shades from deep brown to light peach
• Who it's best for: Luxury beauty lovers who want a matte lip that feels nourishing and looks polished
• Extras: Infused with skin care ingredients and luxe

Editor Quote: "As soon as I swiped on the lipstick, I was immediately impressed with the way it felt on my lips. I have used quite a few matte formulas that tug and skip when you apply. Not only did this one glide on like a satin or high-shine lipstick, but it also felt more comfortable the longer I wore it." — Ariel Baker, former associate beauty editor

Best Blur Lipstick

Prada Monochrome Soft Matte Blur Lipstick [36] ($50)

Prada's popular matte lipstick is available in 14 shades, ranging from soft nude to deep red. It's formulated with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil and bifidus extract that soothe and help strengthen the lip barrier, allowing you to achieve the matte look without drying out your lips. Our editor is obsessed with the shade, R128.

• Pros: Nourishing formula with skin care benefits, convenient packaging
• Cons: More of a splurge
• Type: Blur lipstick
• Finish: Matte
• Shades: Various shades from nude pink to pigmented red
• Who it's best for: Beauty lovers who don't mind splurging on a lipstick, and are looking for an everyday lipstick

Editor Quote: "This is by far one of my favorite lipsticks to wear on my casual escapades. When using it for the first time, I was instantly satisfied with the rich pigment and texture. I'm usually a gloss kind of girl, so I don't use matte lippies all that often, but this pick from Prada has me officially converted. It's a great, hydrating option if you're looking for a way to elevate your everyday makeup routine, or add a subtle pop with no makeup." — Naomi Parris, assistant shopping editor

What to Look Forward to

We're looking at a number of new options for our next update. These include: the Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLUST™: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick [37] as a luxury option and the Fenty Beauty Slip Shine Sheer Shiny Lipstick [38] as an affordable, glossy option.

— Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez, Jessica Harrington, Natasha Marsh, and Balim Tezel