16 Lipsticks, Glosses, Balms, and Tints That Get Our Kiss of Approval

Bonus points, per the experts: Dimethicone does the heavy lifting here, keeping lips looking supple. 

One tester said: “I was blessed enough to receive the full collection of these lipsticks and I promise, they’re unlike any other. They apply like velvet, and the matte formula is nondrying. While all lipsticks wipe off eventually, I appreciate that these naturally fade over time as opposed to cracking and making you look…unhinged. Instead, this blurs, giving you grace to reapply as needed.”

The Best Lip Stain: Pound Cake Cake Batter 

A lip stain is all about pigment. While the formula and feel of Pound Cake’s Cake Batter won big points from our testers, it’s worth emphasizing that the colors are what truly blew them away. Cake Batter comes in six shades of red so that you can find the one that looks best with your skin tone. And if you’re not sure how to do that, fret not: The brand has an online quiz to help you figure out your perfect match. 

Bonus points, per the experts: Dimethicone and avocado oil both prevent moisture loss, giving lips a fuller look.

One tester said: “The color stands out among all others! I have to say, it brings a whole new meaning to a red lip: It’s bright and sexy, designed to complement your complexion and give a little extra glow. I also love how strong and long-lasting it is—you might only have to apply it a few times on a long night out. It feels ultra rich, yet light upon application, so I felt neither sticky nor dry. This now goes to the top of my makeup bag—highly recommend!”

The Best Lip Stain: MAC Cosmetics Locked Kiss Ink Liquid Lipstick 

Testers said that MAC’s Locked Kiss Ink lipstick creates a bold, glam look in seconds—and it stays that way for hours. It’s a great, foolproof option for anyone who’s trepidatious about highly pigmented lip looks or long-lasting matte finishes. 

Bonus points, per the experts: Dimethicone, petrolatum, coconut oil, and shea butter all provide moisture and lock in hydration. 

One tester said: “This has become a holy grail of mine. A curved, doe-foot applicator makes it easy to line your lips, and it has a rich color payoff that looks exactly as it does in the bottle. While the formula applies as a liquid, it quickly transforms to a matte finish that’s transfer-proof and isn’t drying. I snack a lot during the day, and I found that on average, with snacking, it lasts about five to six hours. When it does wear off, it leaves a nice, subtle tint that enhances your natural lip color.”

The Best Lip Crayon: Nudestix Intense Matte Lip and Cheek Pencils

Nudestix is known for its multitasking makeup, and the brand’s new pencil is no exception. Line your lips for a neutral, matte finish, and then doodle a little on your cheeks for a bright, rosy glow. The formula is also waterproof—excellent for all-day wear. 

Bonus points, per the experts: Here, you’ll find dimethicone, which seals in moisture and contributes to that smooth, blendable texture. 

One tester said: “I’ve heard so much about Nudestix, so I was really excited to try these out. I loved the texture; it was super creamy and hydrating, but also stayed put. So often with other lipsticks and lip pencils, the color slides around or comes off easily. This one lasted way longer than I thought it was going to—I even remember taking a shower later in the day and realizing it was still on! That said, it was a tad hard to take off, but I’d rather that than a pencil that smudges easily. Overall, it’s a great product.”