15 Best Drugstore Liquid Lipsticks for Luscious Lips on a Budget

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 22, 2024
 drugstore liquid lipsticks.
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Liquid lipsticks are a girl's true best friend which is why you must never give up on the chance to get your hands on budget options. As per our expertise, you can experience the goodness of these lipsticks without ravaging your bank account by investing in some of the best drugstore liquid lipsticks. 

If you look at the current beauty scene, drugstore liquid lipsticks are having a moment and will most probably stay popular for a long time to come. Why? It's simple! Apart from being affordable, they are easily available. They offer good quality formulas that are long-lasting, transfer-proof, smudge-proof, waterproof, and sometimes even kiss-proof. You can go beyond your computer screens and to your local drugstore to swatch these lipsticks out. With incredible coverage and staying power, some of these drugstore liquid lipsticks can stand toe to toe with the expensive high-end lipsticks.

So, through our trial and error, we discovered the top drugstore liquid lipsticks based on their pigmentation, color payoff, staying power, texture, finish, ingredients, and customer reviews.

15 Best Drugstore Liquid Lipsticks

Give new meaning to budget-friendly with this set of 6 drugstore matte lipsticks from BestLand to meet all your needs. From pink and orange to brown and mauve, this set will keep you covered with all the basic must-have colors. It is a great gifting option for friends and family obsessed with makeup. Since they have a true matte finish, these lipsticks can dry out lips. However, this can be solved by using a nourishing lip balm. As indicated by our tests, each of these lipsticks stays put for a long time without budging.

Pros
  • Nice smell
  • Non-sticky formula
  • Intense pigmentation
  • Long-lasting color
  • Good variety of colors
  • Good for gifting
  • Budget-friendly
Cons
  • Colors may not match the photo advertised
  • Best Glossy

    MAYBELLINE New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink

    MAYBELLINE New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink
  • The MAYBELLINE New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink Lipstick has topped the popularity charts not just for its staying power but also its deliciously glossy color range. It is available in 10 different colors for you to choose from. True to its claims, this lipstick can stand in the face of food, water, and anything else to last up to 16 hours, making it the best long-lasting drugstore liquid lipstick. Our team discovered through using this product that it doesn’t smudge or transfer. It is a wonderful nod to the 90s trend of glossy lips that seems to have made a comeback. We suggest that you should not miss out on shades Wicked and Witty.

    Pros
    • Beautifully vivid colors
    • Intense pigmentation
    • Good color payoff
    • Little goes a long way
    • Offers comfortable wear
    • Vegan formula
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • May feel a little sticky
  • Best Texture

    evpct CmaaDu Liquid Matte Lipstick Set

    evpct CmaaDu Liquid Matte Lipstick Set
  • Six lipsticks are better than one, and this fact has been proved once again by this evpct liquid lipstick set. Each lipstick has a vivid and vibrant color that you won't be able to take your eyes off. The lipsticks offer good pigmentation, making this the best drugstore lipstick set. The applicator has a soft angled brush that helps with an easy and even application. The soft texture goes on smoothly and dries down to give a beautiful matte finish. After putting it to the test, we discovered that these lipsticks have a candy-like scent to them, making them even more delicious.

    Pros
    • Smooth consistency
    • Waterproof
    • Easy to remove
    • Gorgeous colors
    • Precise application
    • Works for different skin tones
    • Provides decent coverage
    Cons
    • May not last long
    • May feel a little drying
  • Best Staying Power

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Lip Lingerie XXL

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Lip Lingerie XXL
  • With as many as 31 irresistible shades, the NYX Lip Lingerie is the best drugstore liquid lipstick you can get your hands on. No matter which color you choose, it comes with the promise of an incredibly long staying power of up to 16 hours. Based on our firsthand experience, this lipstick fulfills its promise. However, you may need to touch up after eating or drinking something. It has an incredibly wearable formula that feels comfortable on the lips without cracking or crumbling.

    Pros
    • Lightweight formula
    • Easy to use
    • Glides on smoothly
    • Feels soft to touch
    • Dries quickly
    • Intense pigmentation
    • Transfer proof
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Color may not match the pictures
  • Most Budget-friendly

    LORAC Pro Liquid Lipstick

    LORAC Pro Liquid Lipstick
  • Discover the allure of LORAC Pro Liquid Lipstick, the epitome of drugstore liquid lipsticks for irresistibly luscious lips. Designed to elevate your lip game without breaking the bank, this velvety formula glides on seamlessly, delivering rich, long-lasting color. Embrace a spectrum of shades that cater to every mood and occasion. Whether you prefer bold reds or subtle nudes, this lipstick effortlessly enhances your pout. Experience the union of affordability and luxury, giving you the power to flaunt glamorous lips without compromise.

    Pros
    • Velvety smooth texture
    • Wide range of shades
    • Easy application
    • Affordable price
    • Versatile for various occasions
    Cons
    • May not be long lasting
  • Best Color Pay-off

    wet n wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick

    wet n wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick
  • For bold, bright, and beautiful lip colors, this wet n wild liquid lipstick is a must-have in your makeup routine. It is the best drugstore liquid lip color that offers the perfect glossy finish. The shades flatter all skin tones and you can choose from subtle daily wear shades to bold and dramatic ones that are perfect for Saturday night at the club. This award-winning lipstick is so lightweight and comfortable that it feels like a second skin (or a very snug catsuit!). When we trialed this product, we found that it offers a very intense saturation so much so that even after the lipstick fades, it leaves a stain on the lips.

    Pros
    • Good quality
    • Easy to apply
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Highly pigmented
    • Smooth texture
    • Offers long wear
    • Good coverage
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • Will not survive meals
  • Best in Budget

    KIMIEYE Matte Liquid Lipstick Set

    KIMIEYE Matte Liquid Lipstick Set
  • When it comes to lipsticks, the more, the merrier. And nothing else can support your love and obsession for liquid lipsticks more than this set of 12 liquid lipsticks from KIMIEYE. It is super budget-friendly and comes with some of the most beautiful shades ranging from nude and brown to pink, red, and coral. There's something for every skin shade. Each drugstore liquid lipstick in this set may feel a little sticky initially but dries down to a beautiful powdery matte finish. The nude shades will become your favorite shade in no time while the brown shades feel irresistible as well. After conducting experiments with it, we can say that the colors leave a stain, which means you will still have some noticeable color on your lips even if the lipstick has faded.

    Pros
    • Easy to use
    • Intense pigmentation
    • Doesn’t crumble or crack
    • Vivid shades
    • Comfortable to wear
    • Lightweight texture
    • Good value for money
    • Suitable for darker skin tones
    Cons
    • Taste may feel a little off to some
  • Most Longlasting

    theBalm Meet Matt(e) Hughes

    theBalm Meet Matt(e) Hughes
  • Indulge in theBalm's Meet Matt(e) Hughes Vol 4 Mini Liquid Lipsticks—a treasure trove in the world of drugstore liquid lipsticks. This 6-piece set combines affordability with luxury, delivering a kaleidoscope of hues to adorn your lips. Experience the velvety texture that glides on flawlessly, ensuring luscious, long-lasting color. From everyday neutrals to bold statements, these liquid lipsticks cater to diverse styles and occasions. A perfect balance of quality and value, they redefine drugstore beauty, letting you embrace vibrant lips without compromise.

    Pros
    • Variety of shades
    • Velvety texture
    • Long-lasting color
    • Affordable price
    • Travel-friendly mini sizes
    • Diverse style options
    Cons
    • None
  • Best Pigmentation

    KVD Beauty Everlasting Longwear Liquid Lipstick

    KVD Beauty Everlasting Longwear Liquid Lipstick
  • The KVD liquid lipsticks are known for their superior pigmentation and smooth texture. No matter which shade you choose, from neutrals to a pop of color, you will experience the best drugstore matte lipstick. It is known that a matte finish can usually feel dry, but not this one. It has a creamy formula infused with vitamin E and sunflower seed wax that feels incredibly nourishing and moisturizing to the lips. Through our practical knowledge, we suggest using this lipstick with a lip liner to prevent bleeding.

    Pros
    • Highly pigmented
    • Offers long hours of wear
    • Non-drying formula
    • Feels comfortable on lips
    • Doesn’t transfer
    • Smudge-proof
    • Beautiful bold shades
    • Vegan
    Cons
    • May require reapplication after meals
  • Best Transfer-proof

    MAKI YIKA Matte Liquid Lipstick

    MAKI YIKA Matte Liquid Lipstick
  • Bold lipsticks have a separate fan base. And MAKI YIKA is one brand known for its highly saturated, deep, and bold shades that flatter almost all skin tones. From forest green and sapphire blue to dark red and magenta pink, these shades not only fulfill your gothic dreams but also come in handy when cosplaying. This liquid lipstick offers a soft matte finish that is also smudge-proof and waterproof. Our investigation demonstrated that it lasts for considerably long hours and doesn't feel sticky or heavy on the lips. It is the top drugstore liquid lipstick clearly for a reason!

    Pros
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Dries fast
    • Highly pigmented colors
    • Transfer-proof
    • Stays on for long hours
    • Doesn’t crack or crumble
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • May require reapplication after meals
  • Best Long-lasting

    stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick

    stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
  • The stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick is a cult favorite and the best drugstore liquid lipstick.  It feels super comfortable and weightless on the lips, thanks to its lightweight formula. Available in 22 gorgeous shades for you to choose from, this lipstick offers a sheer finish that looks and feels more natural. It gives the perfect wash of color to your lips and makes them picture-ready in no time. Our findings show that it may require a touch-up or two during the day, but mostly stands true to its name and lasts all day. It comes with a precise applicator that removes the need for a lip liner.

    Pros
    • Easy to apply
    • Vibrant colors
    • Long-lasting
    • Dries quickly
    • Highly pigmented
    • Offers full coverage
    • Feels hydrating
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    Ruby Kisses Forever Matte Liquid Lipstick

    Ruby Kisses Forever Matte Liquid Lipstick
  • Say goodbye to frequent re-applications with this set of 5 liquid lipsticks from Ruby Kisses. It has a water-based formula that goes on smoothly and dries down to give a soft matte finish, which is super comfortable on the lips. It may require more than one coat to get the desired shade, but once this lipstick is on, it stays on without budging, making it the best drugstore no smudge lipstick. We have found from using this product that it offers good coverage to dark and pigmented lips. We also suggest exfoliating your lips and using a lip primer to prevent any creasing of the lipstick.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Richly pigmented
    • Vibrant colors
    • Dries quickly
    • Super lightweight
    • Non-drying formula
    • Good value for money
    Cons
    • May settle into lines
  • EVELIER Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick

    EVELIER Lipstick & Liquid Lipstick
  • Get the best of both worlds with the EVELIER 2-in-1 lipstick. It includes a matte tube lipstick on one end, while the other end holds the liquid lipstick in the same shade. You can either use them on their own or together to have a more hydrating finish. You can decide how deep you want the lip color to look. This is a good drugstore liquid lipstick that feels velvety smooth on application and has a nice scent. Our research indicates that it has a lightweight texture that offers long-lasting coverage.

    Pros
    • Great coverage
    • Highly saturated colors
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Non-sticky
    • Makes lips look soft and plump
    • Easy to carry around
    • Super pigmented
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • KUAILEGO Lipstick & Lip Glaze

    KUAILEGO Lipstick & Lip Glaze
  • Here is another 2-in-1 lipstick, but within budget. You can find a fine matte bullet lipstick on one end while the other end holds a glossy liquid lipstick in the same shade. Both have a smooth and velvety texture that feels comfortable on the lips. They are mostly smudge-proof and feel hydrating throughout the wear. It is the best cheap matte liquid lipstick which offers good value for money. After trying out this product, we found that reapplication is needed with this one, particularly after eating.

    Pros
    • Beautiful packaging
    • Goes on smoothly
    • Satin finish
    • Good quality
    • Vibrant shades
    • Intense colors
    • Beautiful sheer finish
    • Soft floral scent
    • Ideal for dry lips
    Cons
    • Not true to advertised colors
  • Too Faced Melted Matte Long Wear Liquid Lipstick

    Too Faced Melted Matte Long Wear Liquid Lipstick
  • Too Faced has been the go-to of many beauty enthusiasts for their eyeshadow palettes. However, their lip products including the liquid lipsticks are not far behind. These are after all some of the best drugstore matte long-lasting liquid lipsticks. They are a little more expensive than other drugstore options, but their staying power and intense color payoff make the extra bucks worth it. Drawing from our experience, infused with key ingredients like avocado oil, hyaluronic filling spheres, and vitamin E, this melted matte lipstick moisturizes dry lips, prevents flaking, and stays put.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Beautiful shade range
    • Smooth application
    • Moisturizing formula
    • Comfortable to wear
    • Value for money
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Pricey

    How to Choose the Best Drugstore Liquid Lipstick?

    Choosing the best drugstore liquid lipstick can become as easy as browsing them online, thanks to our comprehensive buying guide. Here are certain aspects that you must consider carefully as you go shopping for your favorite liquid lipstick:

    Skin Tone and Undertone 

    From black and brown to pink and coral, lipsticks come in different shades. However, these shades look different for different skin tones. While light browns and pinks may look perfect on fair skin, these shades can easily wash out darker complexions. So, you must consider your skin tone first.

    You must also determine your skin undertone as it also plays a huge role in deciding whether a lipstick shade will suit you or not. Take a look at the veins on your wrist. If you see green veins, you have a warm undertone, and a cool undertone if you see blue or purple-colored veins. You have a neutral undertone if you cannot make out the exact color.

    Ingredients

    Read the label carefully and make sure the lipstick is not formulated with ingredients that may cause irritation or allergy. Look for skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, aloe vera, glycerin, and argan oil. These ingredients will keep your lips moisturized and nourished.

    Shades

    Opt for shades that suit your skin tone and undertone. Also, take into account your preferences and personal aesthetics.

    Texture and Formula

    Look for a smooth texture that is neither too runny nor too creamy or thick. For instance, if you have dry lips you can pick something like the NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick for its soft creamy texture. Oily skin types may try out something like the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. Liquid lipstick formulas must be lightweight, non-drying, and long-lasting. You must also look for smudge-proof and water-resistant formulas to enhance the lipstick’s longevity. 

    Finish

    Liquid lipsticks typically come in matte, satin, glossy, and metallic finishes. Determine which finish you would like to add to your makeup routine based on your preference.

    Pigmentation

    You must look for a liquid lipstick with intense pigmentation and an incredible color payoff. Buy from reputable drugstore brands as this will ensure that you receive lipstick with high-quality ingredients.

    Other Features

    You may also look for additional features like transfer-proof, comfortable to wear, kiss-proof, convenient applicator, a wide range of shades, etc. to get the best experience out of your liquid lipstick.

    Customer Reviews

    Read customer reviews and feedback to gain insights into the real-life performance of the lipstick of your choice. Go through online beauty blogs for reviews and swatches of the specific liquid lipstick you like.

    Swatch Test

    Whether you choose to buy from online stores or offline stores, make it a point to visit the physical store once and try out the swatches of the drugstore liquid lipsticks you are interested in.

    How to Use a Drugstore Liquid Lipstick?

    Using a drugstore liquid lipstick is easier than it looks and everyone can apply lipstick with ease. However, with some tweaks and tips, you can enhance the experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a drugstore liquid lipstick for optimal results:

    • Start with clean and exfoliated lips. Use a lip scrub to gently remove dry flaky, dead skin from your lips to give you a smooth canvas.
    • Apply a lip balm after exfoliation. It must be at least 10 to 15 minutes before you are about to do your lips. This will give enough time for the balm to get absorbed and help nourish the lips.
    • As you begin, remove the excess lip balm by blotting it with a tissue. Apply a lip primer to make your lips smooth. It will prevent any lines and creasing from appearing.
    • Use a lip liner that either matches your natural lip color or the lipstick shade to outline your lips. Start from the center and move towards the corners. You can fill in the lips as well if you so desire.
    • Take the drugstore liquid lipstick you wish to use and shake it a little to mix its contents. With the applicator, follow your natural lip line to apply the lip color evenly.
    • Let the lipstick dry. You may lightly blot your lips using a tissue to remove the excess color. It will also help set the color.
    • Don't press your lips together and let the lipstick dry on its own, which typically takes a minute or two.
    • Use a Q-tip dipped in micellar water to remove any mistakes that might have happened.
    • If you want a glossy look, you can top your lipstick with a clear lip gloss or a gloss in a complementary shade.

    And that's it. You are done!

    Liquid lipsticks are a lifesaver when you want a lip color that lasts long without budging and gives an intensely vivid finish. And while you can find many high-end formulations, nothing beats the allure of the best drugstore liquid lipsticks. They are easily available and don't burn a hole in your pocket. That’s also why their popularity is on the rise. With vibrant shades that cater to all skin tones, these liquid lipsticks offer smooth textures and an intense color payoff which is almost as good as expensive name brands. You can easily find your ideal lipstick match with the help of our handpicked recommendations and comprehensive guide.

    FAQ's

    Can we use liquid lipstick daily?
    Yes, you can use liquid lipsticks daily. However, you must make sure that you are taking adequate care of your lips.
    What are the benefits of drugstore lipsticks?
    The major benefit of drugstore lipsticks is that they offer multiple features at an affordable rate.
    How long do liquid lipsticks last?
    A liquid lipstick can last anywhere between 4 and 16 hours depending on its formulation.
    How do you get liquid lipstick off?
    You can use an oil cleanser, cotton pad soaked in micellar water, or even vaseline to get liquid lipstick off your lips. Choose the remover according to your skin type.
    Can you put lip balm over liquid lipstick?
    Putting lip balm over liquid lipstick doesn’t serve any purpose. It won’t moisturize lips but it will break down your liquid lipstick. It is advisable to apply a lip balm before applying the liquid lipstick to get its moisturizing benefits.
    How long does liquid lipstick take to dry?
    It may take a minute for the liquid lipstick to dry.
    Does liquid lipstick darken lips?
    Yes, daily use of certain formulations of liquid lipsticks can darken lips.
    Is liquid lipstick better than regular lipstick?
    This is a matter of personal preference. Both liquid lipsticks and regular lipsticks have their respective features and benefits. The better one out of them is the one that suits your individual needs.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Sayantani, the author, is a certified makeup expert who loves a pop of color on her lips. She is obsessed with the convenience and finish provided by liquid lipsticks. She wanted to share her love and praise for pocket-friendly liquid lipsticks with her readers which is why she curated this selection of the best drugstore liquid lipsticks. She tested each product individually and found her new favorite in MAYBELLINE New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More