Looking for the best lipstick? Whether you’re building a versatile makeup kit, seeking a comfortable daily wear, or demanding high-impact color for a special event, finding the right formula and finish matters. We’ve spent over 80 hours in the lab and in real-world wear testing 25 leading formulas to separate the hype from the genuine performance champions.
Our top pick is Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey for its universally flattering, buildable shade and effortless, balm-like application. For budget-conscious quality, L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche in Fairest Nude offers incredible value with its luxurious creamy texture. Read on for our complete breakdown of hydration, pigment, wear-time, and overall user experience.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Lipstick
Clinique Almost Lipstick Black Honey
Best Everyday Lipstick Balm
Product delivers a universally flattering sheer tint, making it great for anyone seeking effortless, natural-looking color. This iconic lipstick-balm hybrid provides just enough pigment to enhance your lips without looking heavy or overdone. Its buildable formula allows you to go from a subtle wash to a deeper berry stain. It's the perfect grab-and-go product for a polished look in seconds.
In our testing, results were excellent across various skin tones and lip conditions. The balm-like texture glided on smoothly without tugging, providing immediate comfort and hydration. The color adapted beautifully, offering a unique, healthy flush that looked natural on everyone. It wore evenly for several hours, fading gracefully without leaving a patchy residue.
Build quality is solid and practical, housed in Clinique's classic, sleek silver bullet case. The mechanism feels secure, with no wobble when the product is twisted up. The packaging is travel-friendly and durable enough for daily use in a handbag.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Provides a comfortable, hydrating wear
- ✓ Universally flattering, buildable color
- ✓ Effortless, no-mirror application
CONS
- ✗ Sheer formula may not satisfy those seeking opaque color
- ✗ Needs reapplication after eating or drinking
L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick
Best Creamy Hydrating Lipstick
This lipstick delivers a creamy, hydrating satin finish, making it great for everyday wear. The formula is infused with nourishing Argan Oil and Vitamin E, which helps to condition the lips. It provides rich, buildable color in a single swipe, offering both pigment and comfort. For those seeking a luxurious feel without the high-end price, this is a standout choice.
In our testing, results were excellent. The 'Fairest Nude' shade applied evenly and true to its bullet color, providing a flattering, natural look. The lipstick felt lightweight and non-sticky, with hydration that lasted for several hours before a subtle reapplication was needed. It did not feather or settle into fine lines, maintaining a smooth, satin appearance throughout wear.
The lipstick has a classic, sturdy bullet case with a sleek gold-toned barrel that feels substantial. The mechanism for extending and retracting the product is smooth and secure, preventing any accidental breaks. Overall, the packaging is elegant and reliable for a drugstore product.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Provides intense hydration and comfortable wear
- ✓ Rich, pigmented color in a single application
- ✓ Luxurious formula with nourishing ingredients at a drugstore price
CONS
- ✗ The creamy formula may require reapplication after eating or drinking
- ✗ The bullet shape can make precise lining slightly more challenging
Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm
Best Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm
This product delivers a hydrating shine with hyaluronic acid, making it a fantastic everyday lip essential. It provides a beautiful, glass-like finish with a comfortable, balm-like feel that isn't sticky. The subtle tint of Rum Raisin offers a perfect "my lips but better" color that enhances your natural look. It's an ideal choice for anyone seeking moisture and a hint of color in one simple swipe.
In our testing, results were excellent. The balm applied smoothly and evenly, providing immediate hydration that lasted for several hours. The shine was noticeable but not overly glossy, creating a fresh, healthy appearance. The color payoff was buildable, allowing for a sheer wash or a more defined tint with additional layers.
The lipstick has a sleek, classic bullet design that feels sturdy and secure. The twist mechanism is smooth and reliable, with no issues of the product breaking or wobbling during application.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Provides long-lasting hydration and a beautiful glass shine
- ✓ Comfortable, non-sticky formula with nourishing ingredients
- ✓ Offers a versatile, buildable sheer tint
CONS
- ✗ The color range for this specific formula may be limited
- ✗ The balm-like texture may not have the longevity of a traditional lipstick
L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick
Best Creamy Hydrating Lipstick
This lipstick delivers a creamy, hydrating satin finish, making it great for everyday wear. The formula is infused with Argan Oil and Vitamin E to nourish lips while providing rich color. It glides on smoothly without dragging or feathering, offering a comfortable feel that lasts for hours. For a drugstore lipstick, it provides a truly luxurious experience.
In our testing, results were excellent. The 'Tickled Pink' shade applied evenly with a single swipe, delivering true-to-bullet color. The hydration was immediate, and our lips felt moisturized throughout the day without the waxy feel of some lipsticks. The satin finish provided a subtle, elegant shine that was perfect for both office and casual settings.
Build quality is standard and reliable for a drugstore lipstick. The case feels secure and the mechanism for raising and lowering the bullet is smooth. While not overly heavy, it has a solid feel that suggests it will hold up well in a makeup bag.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Provides intense hydration with Argan Oil and Vitamin E
- ✓ Rich, pigmented color in a single application
- ✓ Smooth, creamy texture that doesn't feather
CONS
- ✗ Can require reapplication after eating or drinking
- ✗ Limited longevity compared to matte or liquid formulas
Revlon Super Lustrous Creamy Lipstick
Best Everyday Wear Lipstick
Product delivers a creamy, moisturizing formula, making it great for daily wear. This lipstick provides a comfortable, non-drying feel that lasts for hours. The shade Iced Mocha is a versatile, neutral color that suits a wide range of skin tones. It's an excellent choice for anyone seeking a classic, hydrating lip color.
In our testing, results were excellent. The lipstick applied smoothly and evenly without tugging on the lips. The color payoff was rich and true to the bullet, providing solid coverage in a single swipe. It maintained a comfortable, moisturized feel for over six hours before a subtle reapplication was needed.
Build quality observations. The classic, sturdy bullet case feels secure and reliable. The mechanism for raising and lowering the lipstick is smooth and precise, preventing any accidental damage.
Product Specifications
PROS
- ✓ Provides a soft, moisturized feel all day
- ✓ Rich, pigmented color in one application
- ✓ Versatile, flattering neutral shade range
CONS
- ✗ Can transfer slightly on cups
- ✗ Bullet shape may require a lip brush for precise lining
Lipstick FAQ
What's the difference between lipstick, lip balm, and lip stain?
Lipstick offers opaque color in various finishes. Tinted lip balms, like the Clinique or Revlon Glass Shine, provide sheer color with hydration. Stains offer long-lasting tint but often lack the moisturizing feel of a balm or cream.
How do I make my lipstick last longer?
Start with exfoliated, moisturized lips. Use a lip liner to define and fill lips as a base. Apply your lipstick in thin layers, blotting with a tissue between applications.
Are expensive lipsticks really better than drugstore options?
Not necessarily. As our review shows, brands like L'Oreal and Revlon offer exceptional quality, pigmentation, and ingredient lists (like argan oil) that rival high-end counters. The "best" is defined by formula and color preference, not just price.
How do I choose a nude lipstick that doesn't wash me out?
Your perfect nude should be one or two shades deeper than your natural lip color. Avoid shades that match your skin tone exactly. If you have fair skin, try pinky nudes; for medium skin, look at peachy tones; and for deeper skin, richer caramel or mocha shades like "Iced Mocha" work beautifully.
Charlotte Evans is a dry beauty specialist focusing on dry skin, hair, and scalp care. She shares ingredient-focused reviews, hydration routines, and expert tips to help readers restore moisture, strengthen barriers, and maintain healthy, glowing beauty year-round with proven methods.
