The best sheer lipsticks are the epitome of easy and effortless beauty. With no need for mirrors or precision, you can swipe them directly onto your lips and lightly press them together for a carefree pop of glossy, transparent-ish color. After putting it to the test, we found that they are perfect for summer, adding a touch of vibrancy to your sun-kissed complexion. 

As we mature, we come to appreciate the power of subtle details in making a strong impression. While bold pink jackets and vibrant orange lipsticks still have their place, we also recognize the impact of minimalist duster coats and a sheer hint of color on the lips. Recently, the beauty industry has embraced this idea with the rise of the "clean girl" aesthetic, making its mark on social media and the runways. If you are anything like us, you will love incorporating this trend into your routine by effortlessly applying sheer lipstick for that perfect touch of understated beauty.

Our contributor, Elaina Badrom, an Entrepreneur and Makeup Artist, states the difference between sheer lipsticks and lip balms. She says,”Lip balms tend to have hydrating oils and emollients to help hydrate the lips, especially if one has ailments such as dry lips. Sheer lipstick can also have oils, but typically they have more color payoff.”

Distinguishing sheer lipsticks and lip glosses, she says, “Sheer lipsticks have the tendency to have more color payoff, whereas lip glosses offer a subtle tint of color. Lip glosses have to also be applied more frequently (to keep the shine) and they also tend to have a more “tacky” or “sticky” feel.”

Many sheer formulas even offer skincare benefits with added vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, treating your delicate lip skin while delivering a glossy finish. Based on our observations, the sheer gloss lipstick texture allows you to explore bolder shades without the commitment or worry of heavy pigmentation. And do not be afraid to get creative – sheer lipsticks can double as a quick blush alternative on the go.

• 1
  Best for special occasions

  Grande Cosmetics GrandeLIPS Plumper

  Buy on Amazon

Add a soft touch of color to your lips with the Grade Lips that instantly make your lips plumper. The sheer glossy texture adds a luminous touch to your lips that instantly amps up even a boring look. Made with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, you can easily replace your lip balm with this glossy lip treatment. Even on days when you don't apply any makeup, this sheer lipstick is all you need. The beauty of this product is that it leaves your lips feeling plump even when the color wears off. 

2

essence | Glimmer GLOW Lipstick

Buy on Amazon

The essence Glimmer GLOW Lipstick is the ultimate lip color experience. With innovative pH color-changing technology, this vegan and cruelty-free lipstick adapts to your unique chemistry, delivering a subtle and sheer pink shade that enhances your natural beauty. Free from parabens, gluten, oil, preservatives, and microplastic particles, this lipstick is not only kind to your lips but also to the environment. Let your lips shimmer and shine with this ethically conscious lipstick, perfect for any occasion and you can experience the magic of color transformation and indulge in a lip product that truly cares for you.

3

Best Non-sticky finish

e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shine, Joyful

Buy on Amazon

It’s time to experience the ultimate lip care with the Hydrating Core Lip Shine. Go ahead and pamper your lips with the hydrating formula of this elf sheer slick lipstick and enjoy a luscious and radiant smile. This conditioning and nourishing lip balm is a sheer color-tinted chapstick that delivers a joyful burst of color to your lips. Enriched with hydrating ingredients, it keeps your lips moisturized, soft, and supple all day long. The lightweight formula glides on effortlessly, providing a comfortable and non-sticky feel. With its compact size, you can easily take it on the go for instant hydration and a touch of sheer gloss.

4

Honest Lip Crayon Lush Sheer - Rose

Buy on Amazon

Discover the beauty of sheer color with the Honest Lip Crayon Lush Sheer in Rose. This luxurious lip crayon glides effortlessly, delivering a delicate and natural-looking flush of rosy tint to your lips. The sheer formula provides lightweight and comfortable wear, perfect for everyday use. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, it keeps your lips hydrated and moisturized, leaving them soft and supple. The convenient crayon design allows for precise application, making it a must-have in your makeup collection. Embrace the effortless beauty of this lip crayon and enhance your natural lip color with a touch of elegance.

5

Best Hydrating Finish

LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Italian Marble Sheer Lipstick - Peach Bellini

Buy on Amazon

Indulge in the luxurious beauty of LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Italian Marble Sheer Lipstick in Peach Bellini. This lightweight lipstick offers a sheer and luminous wash of color that enhances your lips with a delightful peachy hue. The unique Italian Marble formula creates a mesmerizing blend of swirls, ensuring each lipstick is truly one-of-a-kind. Infused with nourishing ingredients, it keeps your lips moisturized and comfortable throughout the day. The sleek and elegant packaging adds a touch of sophistication to your makeup collection. Experience the sheer elegance of this lipstick and embrace a radiant and kissable pout.

6

Mineral Fusion Sheer Moisture Lip Tint, Flicker

Buy on Amazon

Enhance your natural beauty with Mineral Fusion Sheer Moisture Lip Tint in the shade Flicker. This lightweight and hydrating lip tint provides a sheer wash of color that effortlessly enhances your lips' natural tone. Formulated with nourishing botanicals, it moisturizes and conditions your lips, leaving them soft and supple. The easy-to-use twist-up design ensures precise application without the need for sharpening. Our team discovered through using this product that with its compact size, it is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Enjoy a subtle and luminous pout throughout the day with this sheer tint lipstick!

7

Best Budget Buy

Almay Smart Shade Butter Kiss Lipstick, Red-Light/Medium

Buy on Amazon

Experience the perfect blend of color and hydration with Almay Smart Shade Butter Kiss Lipstick in Red-Light/Medium. This innovative lipstick adjusts to your unique lip color, creating a personalized shade that flatters your complexion. The buttery smooth formula glides on effortlessly, providing intense moisture and nourishment to your lips. The lightweight and sheer finish adds a touch of natural-looking color to enhance your lips' beauty. With its sleek packaging, it's the ideal lipstick to carry with you for on-the-go touch-ups. Enjoy irresistibly soft and kissable lips with a hint of red brilliance.

8

Best Long-Lasting Formula

True + Luscious Super Moisture Lipstick – Pink Sugar

Buy on Amazon

The True + Luscious Super Moisture Lipstick in Pink Sugar is the ultimate lip luxury. This moisturizing lipstick is designed to provide intense hydration and long-lasting color payoff. The creamy formula glides effortlessly on the lips, delivering a beautiful sheer pink shade that enhances your natural lip tone. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, it keeps your lips soft, supple, and kissably smooth. The sleek and chic packaging adds a touch of elegance to your makeup collection. Whether it is a casual day out or a special occasion, this sheer glossy lipstick is sure to become your go-to for a luscious and irresistible pout.

9

Best Creamy Formula

Milani Color Fetish Lipstick- Sheer to Medium Coverage Lip Balm

Buy on Amazon

Feel the irresistible allure of your new go-to sheer to medium-coverage lip balm. This versatile lipstick combines the nourishing properties of a lip balm with the beautiful pigmentation of lipstick. It effortlessly glides on your lips, providing a sheer to medium coverage that enhances your natural lip color. Enriched with moisturizing ingredients, it keeps your lips hydrated and supple throughout the day. The lightweight and creamy formula ensures comfortable wear, while the sleek packaging adds a touch of sophistication to your makeup collection. Elevate your lip game with Milani Color Fetish Lipstick and enjoy a perfect balance of color and care.

10

Best Overall

NARS Sheer Lipstick, Gipsy

Buy on Amazon

This iconic lipstick by NARS delivers a sheer, luminous finish that enhances your lips with a touch of color. The lightweight and hydrating formula glides on smoothly, providing comfortable and long-lasting wear. Gipsy offers a beautiful warm-toned hue that complements various skin tones. The sleek black packaging adds a touch of sophistication to your makeup collection. Whether it's a casual day out or a special occasion, NARS Sheer Lipstick in Gipsy is the perfect choice for a subtle yet glamorous look.

11

Best for Daily Wear

Kiko MILANO - Glossy Dream Sheer Lipstick 207

Buy on Amazon

The Kiko MILANO Glossy Dream Sheer Lipstick is your secret weapon for achieving luscious and radiant lips! This semi-sheer lipstick combines the best of both worlds: a hint of color with a glossy finish. Its innovative formula glides on effortlessly, providing comfortable wear and a lightweight feel. The shade 207 offers a beautiful pink hue that suits various skin tones. Whether you're going for a natural everyday look or a touch of glam, this lipstick delivers a dreamy, high-shine finish. Enhance your pout and embrace sheer elegance with this magic lippie.

12

UNDONE BEAUTY Light on Lip Reflecting, Amplifying Lipstick- Gosh Garnet

Buy on Amazon

Get ready to make a bold statement with UNDONE BEAUTY Light on Lip Reflecting, Amplifying Lipstick in the captivating shade of Gosh Garnet. This lipstick is designed to take your lips to the next level, reflecting light for a luminous and amplified effect. The richly pigmented formula glides on effortlessly, delivering an intense color payoff that lasts. With its moisturizing properties, it keeps your lips hydrated and comfortable all day long. Gosh Garnet offers a stunning deep red shade that exudes confidence and sophistication.

13

ARTDECO Hydra Care Lipstick- A Charming Oasis

Buy on Amazon

Experience the oasis of hydration for your lips with ARTDECO Hydra Care Lipstick in the enchanting shade of A Charming Oasis. This lipstick is a true indulgence for your pout, providing intense moisture and nourishment with every application. The creamy and lightweight formula glides effortlessly, leaving your lips feeling soft, smooth, and plump. A Charming Oasis offers a delicate pink hue that enhances your natural beauty. With its long-lasting and comfortable wear, this lipstick is perfect for everyday elegance or special occasions.

14

Best for All Skin Tones

MAC luster lipstick SEE SHEER

Buy on Amazon

Elevate your lip game with MAC Luster Lipstick in the captivating shade of See Sheer. This sheer and lightweight lipstick delivers a subtle yet radiant pop of color that enhances your natural beauty. The lustrous formula glides on effortlessly, providing sheer and buildable coverage that is perfect for any occasion. With its moisturizing properties, it keeps your lips feeling hydrated and comfortable all day long. See Sheer offers a beautiful coral hue that complements various skin tones. Unleash your inner confidence and charm with a sheer and luminous pout.

15

Oulac Mauve Pink Lipstick - Moisturizing LipStick

Buy on Amazon

Indulge your lips in the luxurious Oulac Mauve Pink Lipstick. This moisturizing lipstick is your ultimate go-to for a luscious and hydrated pout. The creamy formula glides on smoothly, enveloping your lips in a burst of beautiful mauve pink color. With its hydrating properties, it keeps your lips feeling soft, supple, and nourished throughout the day. Say goodbye to dry and chapped lips and say hello to a velvety smooth finish. Whether you're going for a natural everyday look or a touch of chic elegance, this lipstick is your perfect companion for a moisturized and stunning lip look.

16

Best Color Payoff

theBalm Girls Lipstick

Buy on Amazon

This stunning lipstick combines sheer elegance with an intense color payoff. The rich and creamy formula glides effortlessly on your lips, providing smooth and comfortable wear. The shade Amanda Kissmylips offers a seductive berry hue that is both alluring and versatile. With its super long-lasting formula, this lipstick stays put throughout the day, ensuring your pout remains flawless. Add a touch of glamour to your every look and let the theBalm Girls Lipstick be your secret weapon for irresistible lips.

Now that you’ve seen our recommendations for the best sheer lipsticks, let’s hop into the following buying guide so you can make an informed shopping decision.

Choosing the best sheer lipsticks can be a daunting task with the wide range of options available in the market. However, with a few considerations in mind, you can easily find the perfect sheer lipstick that suits your preferences and enhances your natural beauty. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best sheer lipsticks:

Shade Range: Look for a brand that offers a diverse range of shades to cater to different skin tones and personal preferences. Sheer lipsticks are known for their subtle, translucent colors that provide a hint of tint while allowing your natural lip color to shine through.

Formula: Consider the formula of sheer lipstick. Look for one that is moisturizing and nourishing, as this will help keep your lips hydrated and prevent them from drying out. Ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E are often found in moisturizing sheer lipsticks.

Finish: Sheer lipsticks typically offer a variety of finishes, such as glossy, dewy, or satin. Choose the finish that aligns with your desired look and complements your overall makeup style.

Longevity: While sheer lipsticks may not have the same staying power as matte or opaque lipsticks, it's still essential to consider their longevity. Look for reviews or product descriptions that mention the staying power of the lipstick to ensure it lasts for a reasonable amount of time.

Comfort: Opt for a sheer lipstick that feels comfortable on your lips. The lightweight formula should not feel heavy or sticky. Ideally, it should glide on smoothly and provide comfortable and effortless wear.

By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best sheer lipsticks that provide a touch of color, hydration, and a natural-looking finish for your lips, enhancing your overall makeup look and boosting your confidence.

In conclusion, the best sheer lipsticks offer a fantastic option for those seeking a subtle and effortless lip look. With their translucent colors and lightweight formulas, they provide a beautiful hint of tint while allowing your natural lip color to shine through. The moisturizing properties of sheer lipsticks ensure your lips remain hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. The wide range of shades and finishes available cater to various preferences and skin tones. Whether you are aiming for a dewy, glossy, or satin finish, sheer lipsticks have got you covered. So, embrace the sheer beauty and versatility of these lipsticks, and let your natural radiance take center stage.

Contributor: Elaina Badro, Entrepreneur and Makeup Artist, Founder - Elaina Badro Makeup Store