17 Best Lipsticks to Sculpt Your Lips for the Perfect Pout

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 26, 2024
best 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

Whether you are a minimalist makeup wearer or love vibrant and bold looks, you can never miss out on the best lipsticks. There are some days when you prefer light makeup, while on special occasions, you may try deep and fierce looks, in any case, you need perfect lipsticks to create your style statement. We have found that these good lipsticks often get a top spot in beauty educators’ and bloggers’ lists, after all, they are essential makeup products that instantly transform your overall look and put the best face forward. 

A thick glide of these lipsticks sculpts your lips precisely and adds an instant pop of color. Not just that, some formulas also show additional benefits like infusing moisture and hydration to restore overall lip health. 

After hours of research, our beauty experts have carefully curated the list of best lipsticks that will help you choose your favorite formula. We have mentioned these products based on our observations and real-time experiences so that you can save time, energy, and effort in hunting for the right pick. 

17 Best Lipsticks

Nothing beats the luxurious and velvety formula of Elizabeth Arden. Titled Cherry Blaze, this luscious pink color feels like a dust of roses on the lips. Enriched with advanced ceramide complex, vitamin E, and maracuja oil. The creamy texture offers a satin finish that looks stunning on all skin types. Moreover, this lipstick treats dry lips and prevents the delicate skin from chapping further. The best part is that it comes with an anti-aging formula that is perfect for daily use. 

Pros
  • Hydrating ingredients
  • Anti-aging formula
  • Best for daily use
  • Soothing fragrance
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Best Overall

    Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick

    Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick
  • Sculpt your lips like a pro with this Maybelline New York lipstick. What you’ll love about this product is that it’s a hydrating and velvety formula that goes on smoothly in just one swipe, while giving you the best lips without any hassle. The color sensational lipstick is super-pigmented to provide intense and long-lasting effects and layers your lips beautifully to give a sensuous look. This lipstick with a matte finish is perfect for all skin types and creates bold to subtle looks with utmost precision. 

    Pros
    • Creamy texture
    • Easy to apply
    • Ultra-hydrating
    • Everyday wear
    • Economical
    Cons
    • The color may not suit all skin tones
  • Most Lightweight

    Revlon Pink Promise Super Lustrous Lipstick

    Revlon Pink Promise Super Lustrous Lipstick
  • A thick coat of this Revlon pink lipstick is what you need to create chic and sophisticated lip looks. This is the prettiest lipstick in the world that instantly turns dull and lifeless cupids into fab lips. It’s power-packed with conditioning ingredients that hydrate and moisturize deeply for fuller and thicker lips. Plus, it contains microfine pigments that deliver intense color for a bold and confident feel. As per a customer’s review- this lipstick gives a chic matte finish without feeling dry or settling into fine lines. We can assure you that it is the best lipstick that covers lines to ensure a smooth and sleek finish. All you have to do is, apply one stroke of this classy lip color and you will be ready for the fashion runway! 

    Pros
    • Sheer finish
    • Lightweight
    • Comfortable
    • Natural formula
    • High impact color
    Cons
    • Too lustrous color for some users
  • Most Vegan Formula

    wet n wild Mega Last Lipstick

    wet n wild Mega Last Lipstick
  • The uniqueness of this wet n wild formula is that it's one of the perfect gloss lipsticks available on the market that adds a rich color with high gloss. It is enriched with murumuru butter, mango butter, sunflower oil, and watermelon seed oil, that nourishes cupids to boost lip health while giving a radiant gloss. You can effortlessly sculpt a precise pout by gliding this lipstick on your lips. It won't bleed or feather throughout the day. Also, this creamy lip color is buildable and ensures easy application. Plus, the product is available in 10+ options, so you can pick any shade to bring on your drama. 

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Goes smoothly
    • Fragrance-free
    • High shine finish
    Cons
    • Requires reapplications
  • Best for All Skin Types

    Milani Color Statement Lipstick

     Milani Color Statement Lipstick
  • Bring on your slay game with Milani Color Statement Lipstick that’s earned the label of being a popular lipstick — thanks to its nourishing properties. It contains vitamins to keep lips healthy and conditioned. Plus, it leaves a stunning hue behind to enhance vibrancy. The lipstick comes with a matte finish to achieve elegant and timeless looks. Be it a casual dinner date or an office meeting, you'll love wearing this tropical nude shade lipstick for various occasions. 

    Pros
    • For all skin types
    • Not animal tested
    • Flattering shades
    • Comfortable
    • Smooth texture
    Cons
    • Could be more long-lasting
  • Most Non-drying Formula

    Revlon Pink Pearl Super Lustrous Lipstick

    Revlon Pink Pearl Super Lustrous Lipstick
  • If you love pink lipstick with a shiny, pearl-like finish, try using this Revlon Pink Pearl lip color. Its every coat promises a creamy and comfortable feel while offering a stunning pink hue. Not only that, this is the best cream lipstick that carries the goodness of vitamin E and avocado oil to infuse moisture and prevent water loss for plump and thick lips. Whether you are planning a girl's night out or preparing for your BFF's birthday bash, a single application of this trending lip color will help you attract eyeballs everywhere. 

    Pros
    • Luster finish
    • Non-drying
    • Attractive color
    • Featherweight
    • Conditioning formula
    Cons
    • Might not suit super-sensitive lips
  • Best Pigment

    L'Oreal Paris Shine Lipstick

    L'Oreal Paris Shine Lipstick
  • The L'Oreal Paris lip concoction is a perfect fusion of the best lipgloss and lipstick. It's crafted with essential oils to add an instant boost of hydration while imparting a high-gloss shine. Once it sets— it tones lips and protects them from all-day hustle and bustle. Further, our analysis of the product shows that the lipstick is easy to apply and feels silky throughout the day. Hence, this shiny lipstick is a must-have in any makeup kit for that lip TLC.

    Pros
    • Creamy, glossy finish
    • Radiant nude shade
    • High color pay-off
    • Comfortable wear
    • Moisture-rich
    Cons
    • Some may find the color light
  • Best Hypoallergenic Formula

    Almay Lip Vibes Lipstick

    Almay Lip Vibes Lipstick
  • Be fearless and show your confidence with stunning lips. The Almay Lip Vibes Lipstick is the mantra to strengthen your feminine spirit and bless you with a gorgeous pout. It gives a rich color to provide vibrant and healthy cupids. Moreover, this super-nourishing and hydrating formula contains vitamins C and E, and shea butter, that infuse essential nutrients to prepare lip skin to withstand environmental stressors. You can get all-day comfort after wearing this matte cream lipstick that feels gentle on the lips.  

    Pros
    • Non-sticky
    • Non-drying
    • Cream matte finish
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Fragrance-free
    Cons
    • Some may find its color faint
  • Most Flattering Shade

    COVERGIRL Continuous Color Lipstick

    COVERGIRL Continuous Color Lipstick
  • Nail the art of perfect lip sculpting with this Covergirl lipstick. The creamy mauve lipstick balm goes on precisely to ensure optimum coverage for perfect lip looks. Plus, it feeds malnourished lips and provides a healthy glow. Unlike regular lipsticks, this iconic lipstick doesn't strip off natural moisture to prevent dryness. Also, the color stays intact for up to 6 hours to offer long-lasting results. Further, we determined through our tests that this product reduces color fading and keeps lips soft and moisturized throughout the roughest days! 

    Pros
    • Non-cakey
    • Flattering color
    • Goes evenly
    • Non-staining
    • Easy to remove
    Cons
    • All may not like this shade
  • Best for Dry Lips

    L'Oreal Paris Passionate Pink Nude Lipstick

    L'Oreal Paris Passionate Pink Nude Lipstick
  • This is another L'Oreal Paris classic lipstick that will leave you stunned. The Passionate Pink Nude Lipstick is specially formulated for dry lips to keep dryness at bay. So now flaky lips won't trouble you anymore! This jojoba oil-infused lipstick beauty product melts on the lips and penetrates deep into the skin for intense hydration. Also, it blurs imperfections and delivers full matte coverage for an even look without feeling dry. Since this lip color offers so many benefits, it's one of the best-selling lipsticks of all time that ensures high performance even on a low budget. 

    Pros
    • Fills lines
    • Great texture
    • Highly pigmented
    • Lightweight
    • Non-irritating
    Cons
    • Needs reapplications
  • Milani Bold Color Statement Matte Lipstick

    Milani Bold Color Statement Matte Lipstick
  • We all need quick lip products for instant DIY transformation, and this Milani lipstick is amongst the best fast-acting formulas. The matte lipstick glam-up looks instantly in one swipe. It has a smooth texture that ensures easy and precise gliding. Also, you can stash this in your purse for on-the-go touchups.  One stroke of this ultra-pigmented lipstick softens and smoothens lips while ensuring full matte coverage. Additionally, the formula dries quickly and lasts for up to 8 hours so you don’t need frequent reapplications. 

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vibrant shade
    • No smear formula
    • Gives moisturizing coverage
    Cons
    • Might look dark on fair skin
  • LAURA GELLER Italian Marble Sheer Lipstick

    LAURA GELLER Italian Marble Sheer Lipstick
  • This Laura Geller marble sheer lipstick brings you love from Italy. The proud artistry carries warm pink with light neutral tints to create a marble-like effect. Also, it fills unwanted fine lines to result in flawless lips. What’s more, is that it includes vitamin E and castor seed oil to pamper your cupids and restore the lost hydration and softness. This is one of the best lipstick shades that doesn't feather or migrate, so you can cherish a long-lasting tint from morning to night. 

    Pros
    • Cream finish
    • Non-drying
    • Doesn't crack lips
    • Handmade
    • Feels weightless
    Cons
    • Not for all skin tones
  • The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick

    The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick
  • Having those oh-so-kissable lips is now possible with this liquid matte lipstick by The Lip Bar. It's designed to enhance your complexion with minimum effort. You’ll be stunned by its dual-action feature. It applies like a gloss and dries soft matte. Thanks to the added lip-loving ingredients, jojoba oil, and vitamin E, your lips won't dry even on the scorchiest day. Also. you can take a coffee sip or eat your favorite food without fearing transfer. The formula won't fade or transfer as it's kissproof. 

    Pros
    • Non-drying
    • No budge formula
    • Offers full coverage
    • Paraben-free
    • High pigmented color
    Cons
    • Can be more hydrating
  • READY TO SHINE Matte Lipstick

    READY TO SHINE Matte Lipstick
  • This Ready To Shine lipstick lives up to its name. The semi-matte formula adds vibrance while conditioning and nourishing lips. After putting it to the test, we found that the lipstick plumps up thin lips and boosts softness. Moreover, this vivid lip color with a satin sheen finish gives a subtle, dewy look and brings out glamour instantly. Additionally, it hydrates lips, replenishes moisture levels, and reduces water loss to keep your cupids smooth, thick, and fuller. 

    Pros
    • Non-GMO
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Velvety finish
    • Creamy and silky
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Too light color for some users
  • Clinique Pop Lip Color + Primer Lipstick

     Clinique Pop Lip Color + Primer Lipstick
  • A multipurpose formula like this Clinique lipstick does wonders. You can use it as a lipstick and primer for fast and full-proof applications. As a primer, it creates a base for the lips to keep and hold the lip color, while as a satin lipstick, it puts in stunning color with a precise finish. If you need a travel-friendly and fast-acting lipstick, this is your best pick. When we tried this product, we found that it only occupies a little space and easily fits even in your pocket so you can carry it anywhere. 

    Pros
    • Infuses moisture
    • Natural looking shade
    • Satin finish
    • No-dry color
    • Provides optimum coverage
    Cons
    • Needs to be more long-lasting
  • Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Lipstick

    Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Lipstick
  • The Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Lipstick is a super hydrating formula enriched with hyaluronic acid and rose balm. This ultimate fusion moisturizes lips and offers an irresistibly smooth and gorgeous shade. Available in 20+ shades, each Lancôme's lipstick makes sure that your lips feel luscious and comfortable from morning to night. Further, all lipsticks come in a high-end luxurious case with a golden-metallic body. Every time you apply this alluring lipstick, you'll experience a sophisticated and lavish feel. 

    Pros
    • All day wear
    • Sulfate-free
    • Semi-matte finish
    • Glides seamlessly
    • Premium designed case
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick

    stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
  • For those who prefer versatile lipsticks, this stila Stay All Day Liquid lip color is meant for them. The universal lip color is ultra-pigmented and is available in a creamy matte finish. You can wear it anywhere, irrespective of the occasion. Whether you are going on a vacation in the countryside or looking for something that goes with your office outfits, this is the best-rated lipstick that goes with all. Many users are surprised by its sheer performance— it’s smooth, versatile, and highly pigmented. Hence, it has achieved the crown of the best-selling lipstick. 

    Pros
    • Vitamin-rich
    • Complete coverage lipstick
    • Includes a soft brush
    • Featherweight
    • Bleed-resistant
    Cons
    • Small bottle size

    Now that you have seen our top recommendations for the best lipsticks. Take advantage of our user guide below which will assist you in finding the best formula and applying it correctly for a flawless finish. 

    How to Pick the Best Lipstick?

    Finding the best lipstick can be a tedious task, especially when there are tons of options around you. But here are a few points you can look for to simplify your search process. 

    Shade 

    Lipsticks are all about finding the right shade. For every skin tone and undertone, there are the best lipstick shades available for all. Those with dark skin tones may try a bright or subtle shade that contrasts with the skin color. Deep skin tones with warm and neutral undertones can check for lipstick shades with terracotta for reds, caramel for brown, and peach for pinks. Cool undertones can go for dark berry shade. 

    Medium skin tone with a warm undertone looks good with coral or caramel nude shade lipstick. If you have fair skin with a cool undertone, a subtle mauve shade will enhance your appearance. 

    Finish 

    Lipsticks are available in different finishes, such as matte, glossy, sheer, etc. Matte shades have less shine compared to gloss lipsticks. Nude mattes are versatile and ideal for everyday use. You can wear them on casual occasions or at workplaces. Glossy shades are great for parties, evening get-togethers, dinner dates, or special events. On the other hand, sheer lipsticks give a subtle color wash and do not look too bold or gaudy. 

    Formula 

    Consistency defines the performance of a lipstick formula. From creamy to gels and sticks, we have formulas with various consistencies. Some creamy or gel lipsticks have a wet look, while other cream formulas can be slightly dry and stay intact. Determine how you want to use lipstick while checking the consistency.  

    Additional features 

    Besides adding color, most lipsticks come with extra advantages like increasing hydration, preventing moisture loss, protecting lips against damage, etc. You can check for these brownie points when choosing a lip color. 

    After choosing the most appropriate lipstick, learn how you can apply it correctly to sculpt your lips precisely. 

    How to Apply the Best Lipstick?

    Follow the given steps to apply lipstick like a pro. 

    1. Exfoliate your lips and remove dead cells to ensure smooth application. You can use a toothbrush and apply a balm to keep the lips soft and supple. 
    2. Put a matching concealer shade that aligns with your natural lip color. This will create a strong base to extend lipstick's longevity. 
    3. Apply a lip liner to reshape and define lip contours. This way, you can avoid mess and ensure easy application. 
    4. Pick your favorite lipstick and begin applying it from the middle to the corners. 
    5. You can use a soft concealer brush to spread the color on the edges. 

    Conclusion 

    The best lipsticks never go unnoticed. They are an essential beauty product in every girl's makeup kit. For those oh-so-beautiful lips, a nice coat of color-intense lipstick is a much-needed requirement. The above-listed products are color-rich lip concoctions that give luscious lips instantly. They are formulated with organic ingredients, including essential oils, vitamins, etc., for long-lasting color stay while improving lip health. Before starting your shopping spree for the best lip colors, check for a few factors like shade, finish, formula, and additional features to drop the right lipstick in your cart.  

    FAQ's

    What are the main ingredients of a lipstick?
    Ans. Most lipsticks are made with wax, oil, and pigments. The best lip colors typically have lower wax concentrations and contain essential oils that don't feel heavy.
    How is chemistry involved in making lipsticks?
    Ans Lipstick producers add oils like jojoba oil, olive oil, etc., that nourish, moisturize, and hydrate lips. They also infuse pigments that provide the color. Natural lipsticks are free from chemical ingredients like sulfates and contain the above-mentioned additives.
    What ingredients in lipsticks darken lips?
    Ans. Traces of some elements, such as magnesium, chromium, artificial dyes, etc., may cause hyperpigmentation and lead to darkened lips.
    What natural colorants are used in lipstick?
    Ans. Natural colorants like beetroot juice, saffron, turmeric extracts, red cabbage powder, etc., give a natural hue to the lipsticks.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    As a beauty enthusiast and expert, Sayantani loves experimenting with different lip colors. She tried and tested different lipsticks and analyzed them on various parameters, including formula, pigmentation, texture, etc. The top contenders like stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick, Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick, and L'Oreal Paris Shine Lipstick offered exceptional results. They provided great color, better coverage, and ease of application.  

    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 and fitness on board 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