If you haven't noticed yet, liquid lipstick is everywhere. At first, you could only find them in high-end brands in department stores and Sephora, but now they're finally making their way to drugstores. In an effort to find out what really stacked up against the high-end alternatives, I tried every drugstore liquid lipstick I could find.
First of all, it's worth mentioning that this is one of the biggest and longest-lasting formula trends in beauty in recent years. Sure, we've seen foundation sticks, sprays, lip glosses, and matte powders. But nothing is making waves in the industry more than liquid lipstick. It's a long-wear matte formula that lasts like a gloss and dries like a matte. The best styles are comfortable, long-lasting, and kiss-proof. The worst of them are liquidy, uneven, and easy to transfer.
Luckily, you can find some great liquid lipsticks at the drugstore. Be careful though; I've found that color payoff, formula, and wearability vary based on the color, not just the brand or product you choose. Some colors wear well, while others don't. Overall, I find lighter shades, like pinks and super nudes, harder to match. What about these seven? They are my absolute favorite.
1. NYX Lip Lingerie in Bedtime Flirting
I don't save the best for last. This latest lip makeup launch from NYX is by far my favorite. These liquid lipsticks have a stiff applicator stick that applies easily and dries matte very quickly. They have a mousse-like formula, so they are very comfortable to wear. I don't feel dry on my lips. Best of all, it lasts all day without flaking. This is a great liquid lipstick and the price makes it the best option.
NYX Bedtime Flirting Lip Bra, $15, Amazon
2. Roma NYX Soft Matte Lip Creme
This formula from the same brand has been around for a while, but it's one of the best mattes around. They are also mousse-like, but dry semi-matte instead of full-matte. They work almost like stains, so when they fade throughout the day, the color remains. Super comfortable to wear and incredibly priced, these are my top picks.
NYX Soft Matte Lip Creme, Roma, $6, Ulta
3. NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick (Sandstorm)
Can you tell I'm a NYX fan? This formula is more liquid-like than the other two, making it perfect for those who want the look of a matte liquid lipstick but have dry, cracked lips. This will keep you hydrated throughout the day, but the chances of transfer are definitely higher when you drink or eat.
NYX Liquid Suede Lipstick (Sandstorm), $10, Amazon
4. Milani Cosmetics Amore Matte Lip Cream Amore
This is the most matte of all the formulas I have tried. It works well and lasts for a long time but eventually falls apart on your lips after a few hours. But it's the most pigmented of all the options and overall a great liquid lipstick. And it tastes great!
Milani Cosmetics Amore Matte Lipstick, Amore, $8, Walgreens
5. Maybelline ColorBlur Cream Matte Lip Pencil Pink Insanity
I don't quite understand the concept of the "blur" option on these lip pencils, so I just apply it like a regular lip pencil. This is a fairly matte lip pencil that feels nice on the lips but tends to fall off. I had to apply several coats whereas other lip products only require one. I do really like this color though.
Maybelline ColorBlur Matte Cream Lip Pencil in Crazy Pink, $7, Amazon
6. L'Oreal Le Matte Lip Gloss She's So Matte
I'm really feeling this warm, spicy nude pink. The formula is super smooth and creamy, and dries to a matte finish with a slight satin finish. The overall feel of the product deserves a little color transfer.
L'Oreal Le Matte Lip Gloss She's So Matte, $9, Amazon
7. Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick (Nude Excitement)
This is the only liquid lipstick I've tested that isn't completely matte and drying. If you are looking for a gloss that is highly pigmented and has a bit of shine to it, then this is the product for you.
Maybelline Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick in Nude Thrill, $6, Amazon
Overall, I'm happy to know that the hottest beauty trends are available at extremely affordable prices, with formulas that feel just as good as pricier brands.