The Best Liquid Lipsticks That Belong in Every Makeup Bag
:upscale()/2023/11/20/021/n/1922153/2592479a655bec2becfc78.90950559_.webp)
Liquid lipstick is a fickle friend. On the one hand, it can be a bit messy and usually requires a practiced hand to get the application just right (and even then, you'll likely need a few makeup wipes on standby, just in case). On the other hand, it makes a statement and typically lasts all day, even through eating, which makes it an ideal accessory. That said, locating the perfect liquid lipstick can be something of a challenge, especially because there are so many different options on the market.
Finding the perfect product to swipe on our lips has become somewhat of a passion project. We try every formula that crosses our desks, and trust us when we say there are a lot to choose from. From drugstore heroes to luxury buys, matte, satin, and high-shine finishes, and even the occasional peel-off varieties, we've put them all to the test.
Ahead, check out the best liquid lipsticks that make up our short list. Whether you wear liquid lipstick every day, only use it on special occasions, or are looking for a product that's perfect for newbies, we've got something for everyone. Just have your credit card handy, because we guarantee you'll find your perfect match.
— Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez
:upscale()/2023/11/20/063/n/1922153/d810757e3df16abb_2510218.png)
Best Pigmented Liquid Lipstick
Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick ($10)
If you're looking for a product that won't break the bank but has major staying power, look no further than the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. It comes in a wide range of shades that'll last you all night long.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/11/20/064/n/44344577/shopj5EHiD.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/113/n/1922153/c28994a9222ccd2e_Screen_Shot_2019-12-19_at_8.43.34_PM.png)
Best Matte Liquid Lipstick
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip ($28)
Don't mind us as we literally swoon over the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip. We're particularly smitten with this soft matte chocolatey shade.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/113/n/1922153/c28994a9222ccd2e_Screen_Shot_2019-12-19_at_8.43.34_PM.png)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/8b7396a67c5fd6ba_netimg6Y2V4w.jpg)
Best Drugstore Liquid Lipstick
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Metallic Lipcolor ($7)
Looking for a liquid lip that does something different? The Revlon Ultra HD Matte Metallic Lipcolor comes in a range of metallic nudes for a subtle touch of glam.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/11/22/811/n/44344577/shopp3W4N8.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/f8d7189353606e84_netimgwVC69B.jpg)
Best Natural-Looking Liquid Lipstick
ColourPop Swing Away Ultra Blotted Lip ($9)
Sometimes we want a lip that's there, but not really there, ya' know? If you have no idea what we're talking about, just try the ColourPop Swing Away Ultra Blotted Lip. It helps you re-create that "I just ate a cherry popsicle" look we all strive for.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/f8d7189353606e84_netimgwVC69B.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/a96146f0fce8782b_netimgyI9XFJ.jpg)
Best Red Liquid Lipstick
MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipstick ($25)
This is at the top of the list for good reason. The applicator comes to a point, making it easy to shape and fill in lips, while the formula goes on super smooth and then dries down matte. Apply in the morning, and if you play your cards right and use a straw, you won't have to worry about it again until you wash your face at night.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/a96146f0fce8782b_netimgyI9XFJ.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/7909eb6107a82169_netimgIDcYMz.jpg)
Most Comfortable Liquid Lipstick
Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro Lip Stain ($27, originally $45)
The Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro Lip Stain is velvety soft and matte but doesn't feel dry like normal matte formulas — like so soft you can actually rub your lips together while keeping the color perfectly in place.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/7909eb6107a82169_netimgIDcYMz.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/c74f42c480fe215f_netimggQVo7r.jpg)
Best Blurring Liquid Lipstick
Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder ($24)
Try the Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder for a dose of lipstick magic. Its powdery formula melts onto lips for a comfortable, blurred lip effect.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/c74f42c480fe215f_netimggQVo7r.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/cedc0e00c2d9fb6a_netimgs228Fp.jpg)
Best Lightweight Liquid Lipstick
NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment ($30)
Speaking of lipsticks with magical ability, the NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment definitely has some secret superpowers. The applicator is stiff and tiny, so it's easy to maneuver and allows you to line and fill in your lips. Plus, the liquid formula sinks onto lips like a stain, so you feel absolutely nothing. However, be warned: this formula is not smudge-proof, so while it won't feather, it does transfer.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/cedc0e00c2d9fb6a_netimgs228Fp.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/a05dd019003e5375_netimgwdN9OF.jpg)
Best Creamy Liquid Lipstick
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick ($24)
We like to consider the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick the OG of liquid lipstick. It's creamy, full-coverage, and long-lasting — what's not to love?
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/11/20/020/n/44344577/shopEdNmHd.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/499669696bb5a49d_netimgyOdHKP.jpg)
Best Long-Lasting Liquid Lipstick
Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick ($16, originally $27)
What qualifies Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick for a spot on our list is its eight-hour wear that's nondrying — the true dream.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/11/20/020/n/44344577/shopA4apdc.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/1b3bee81268f193e_netimgyOuI2c.jpg)
Best Waterproof Liquid Lipstick
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick ($10, originally $20)
The Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick is a beauty editor fave for a few different reasons. First, it's long-wearing and smudge-resistant; second it's waterproof. So obviously, it makes for the perfect vacay lip.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/1b3bee81268f193e_netimgyOuI2c.jpg)
:upscale()/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/027a79fd3143637c_netimgC1pLwx.jpg)
Best Shiny Liquid Lipstick
Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip Color ($33)
Silky and lustrous, the Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip Color defies the expectation that all liquid lips have to dry down matte. This formula leaves behind a subtle shine that's more reflective than glossy.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2019/12/19/112/n/1922153/027a79fd3143637c_netimgC1pLwx.jpg)