There are hundreds of lipsticks on the market, and searching for the very best formulas can be time consuming and stressful. Luckily, POPSUGAR editors have tried out many of them, both new and old, and have selected the definitive greatest lipsticks of all time. From matte finishes that won't crack or dry out your skin to ones with a glass-like shine, we didn't leave anything out.
Each product on this list applies evenly, feels comfortable on your lips, and delivers on colour. You can count on these 15 tubes to be excellent additions to your makeup toolkit. Check out the best lipsticks of all time ahead.
Nars Audacious Lipstick
You're bound to fall in love with the moisturising formula of Nars Audacious Lipstick [1] ($34) the first time you glide it across your lips. It's soft without being overly slippery (and smearing all over your chin) and applies opaquely in a single swipe.
NYX Matte Lipstick
For those who want a comfortable matte formula, the NYX Matte Lipstick [2] ($6) will become an instant favourite in your collection.
Hourglass Confession Ultraslim High-Intensity Lipstick Refill
The Hourglass Confession Ultraslim High-Intensity Lipstick Refill [3] ($22) is one of the most luxurious-feeling lipsticks we've ever tried. The thin applicator makes it effortless to get a precise application, and the refillable gold applicator is stunning.
Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Sweet Tinted Lip Balm SPF15
For those who prefer a sheer wash of colour, you'll love the Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Sweet Tinted Lip Balm SPF15 [4] ($20). It seals in moisture with the help of candelilla wax and has a velvety matte finish.
Revlon Colorburst Balm Stain
Makeup beginners will love the easy-to-apply Revlon Colorburst Balm Stain [5] ($7, originally $8). The crayon-like packageing makes it easy to swipe on in a flash, and the buildable formula is forgiving if you colour outside the lines.
Sephora Collection #Lipstories Lipstick
Not only does every shade of Sephora Collection #Lipstories Lipstick [6] ($8) come in its own unique, cute tube, but the pigmentation and price are unbeatable. Plus, the lippies come in matte, satin, and metallic finishes, making it hard to choose just one.
Essence Velvet Matte Lipstick
The Essence Velvet Matte Lipstick [7] ($4) gives you everything you want in a lipstick with its long-wearing, highly pigmented formula. It's hard to believe it costs less than your morning breakfast run.
Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
You won't believe just how long the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick [8] ($8) stays on, making it perfect for dates, dinners, and special occasions where you want to impress.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick
For a luxury lipstick that delivers on colour, try the buildable Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick [9] ($26). The square tip makes it easier to apply around your cupid's bow, creating a precise shape.
Wet 'n' Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick
The Wet n Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick [10] ($5) slicks across your lips for budge-proof, vivid colour that won't ever flake or crack. The heavy-duty formula won't even come off on your wine glass.
MAC Lipstick
MAC Lipstick [11] ($19) has many fans because of the wide variety of shades, smooth application, and selection of finishes ranging from matte to frost.
E.l.f. Velvet Matte Lipstick
Comfortable, nondrying matte shades are hard to come by, but the E.l.f. Velvet Matte Lipstick [12] ($4) totally delivers. A moisturising blend of argan oil and vitamin E within the formula makes it so creamy, you'll forget you have anything on your lips.
Milani Colour Statement Lipstick
An affordable, creamy, pigmented lipstick that comes in 32 colours is hard to come by, which is why you'll love the Milani Colour Statement Lipstick [13] ($6). It also smells like a tropical drink, reminding you of the beach each time you put it on.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick [14] ($7) has a high-shine finish and is formulated with avocado oil and vitamin E to make it hydrating. For the price of a fancy latte, you really can't go wrong trying out this popular pick.
Marc Jacobs Beauty Le Marc Lip Crème Lipstick
The silky-smooth formula of the Marc Jacobs Beauty Le Marc Lip Crème Lipstick [15] ($32) makes applying and wearing lipstick easy and comfortable. The magnetic closure of the tube will get you hooked on it instantly.