Melissa M. Dunn 
These days, many of us feel a bit rusty when it comes to getting dressed. Luckily, a lipstick swipe is one of the easiest ways to instantly feel in shape, whether you’re still in denim mode or planning a cocktail party outfit. When looking for a new shade, there are not only hundreds of shades to choose from, but also various formulas, ingredients, finishes, and packaging to consider.
The best lipsticks include moody browns, vibrant reds and neutrals from Nars, Ilia Gucci and more.
With the help of Jenn Streicher, makeup artist and new owner of New York-based beauty store Scout, we’ve broken it down for you to make choosing your next shade more fun and less daunting. These are the best lipsticks for any occasion or any look, plus some words of wisdom when looking for your next date.
Best lipstick overall
A transparent and buildable formula with a natural finish
Best matte lipstick
A velvety matte that does not dry out
Best moisturizing lipstick
A moisturizing, antioxidant-rich lipstick
Best plumping lipstick
Pout-enhancing ingredients in a bold form
Best Luxury Lipstick
Perfect lip colors for everyday use
Best long lasting lipstick
A creamy formula that gives a touch of long-lasting color
Best liquid lipstick
A high gloss choice with a sheer color wash
Best clean lipstick
A favorite of beauty insiders
Best Drugstore Lipstick
A chic dye at an affordable price
Best sheer lipstick
A hydrating choice that feels as good as it looks
What to consider when buying the best lipstick
Lipstick is a very personal choice, and the ones you choose can vary depending on your preferences for feel, wear, and the most flattering shades for your skin tone. Below, Streicher offers some tips on what to look for in a lipstick.
Color
Streicher says the best way to approach shopping for a new shade is to try as many as you can. “That’s how you can find your perfect color,” she says. Most likely, you’ll linger a little longer in front of the mirror when the most flattering shade is applied.
Consistency
Like color, texture preference depends on the customer and specific needs. The consistency can range from liquid to classic solid stick and can have anything from a glossy sheen to a matte feel. It can also have an effect on how long the product lasts on your lips. “If you’re looking for long-wearing lipsticks, a clean formula might not be the answer,” says Streicher, because all-natural formulas don’t contain preservatives that are sometimes used to stay put. “However, I’m a big fan of clean lipsticks given that you’re basically ingesting the product.”
Formula
Like paint, formulas range from gloss to matte (and everything in between). As a general rule, those with smaller lips should try glossier finishes to plump or enhance the pout, while a fuller pout can play with less reflective lipstick. Creamy formulas flatter the most and are a good place to start.
How to make lipstick last longer?
If you’re applying lip balm to prep your lips, it helps to blot before applying lipstick so your lips are still hydrated but not slippery. Using a neutral colored lip liner beforehand can also help the lipstick last a little longer.
When it comes to making your lipstick last, it’s important to have a certain level of awareness. “Unless you’re using actual paint on your lips, you’ll have to reapply it throughout the day — there’s no getting around it,” says Streicher. If you want an all night option, consider putting a tube in your purse for necessary reapplications.
How to remove lipstick?
No one wants product smeared all over their face before bed, so knowing how to remove lipstick is essential. Streicher recommends using an oil-based cleanser or makeup wipe to remove between color tests or at the end of the night, since an oil will also nourish rather than strip away moisture.
How long does lipstick stay good?
Lipsticks don’t last forever, and it’s important to make a mental note of the approximate purchase date (usually three years is the limit). But Streicher says there’s an easier way to tell when your product is going south. “When it starts to smell bad, it’s time to throw it away,” she says.
