Liquid lipstick is a fickle friend. On the one hand, it's messy to apply, usually requires a practiced hand (and even then a few makeup wipes on standby, just in case), and will inevitably end up on your chin after lunch. On the other hand, it makes a statement and usually lasts all day — the ideal accessory. That being said, finding the perfect liquid lipstick has become somewhat of a passion project of ours. We try every formula that crosses our desks, either swatching on the back of our hands or on our lips. (In fact, we keep mirrors and stacks of makeup remover on our desks for this very reason.) Sounds like a tough job, but someone has to do it, right?
Ahead, check out the liquid lipsticks that make up our short list. Whether you wear liquid lipstick everyday [1] or have never bothered before, there is something for everyone.
MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipcolor
This is at the top of the list for good reason. The MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipstick [2] ($22) applicator comes to a point, making it easy to shape and fill in lips, while the formula goes on supersmooth and then dries down matte. Apply in the morning, and if you play your cards right and use a straw, you won't have to worry about it again until you wash your face at night.
Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro Lip Stain
The Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro Lip Stain [3] ($38) is velvety soft and matte but doesn't feel dry like normal matte formulas — like so soft you can actually rub your lips together while keeping the colour perfectly in place.
Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder Liquid Matte Lip Colour
Try the Chanel Rouge Allure Liquid Powder [4] ($30) for a dose of lipstick magic. Its powdery formula melts onto lips for a comfortable, blurred lip effect.
NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment
Speaking of lipsticks with magical ability, NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment [5] ($26) definitely has some secret superpowers. The applicator is stiff and tiny, so it's easy to maneuver and allows you to line and fill in your lips. Plus, the liquid formula sinks onto lips like a stain, so you feel absolutely nothing. However, be warned: this formula is not smudge-proof, so while it won't feather, it does transfer.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Lips Liquid Lipstick
The pillowy soft formula of Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Lips Liquid Lipstick [6] ($34) glides on oh-so smooth while the unique applicator hugs your lips as it dispenses the perfect amount of colour.
Lancôme Matte Shaker High Pigment Liquid Lipstick
Just shake the Lancôme Matte Shaker High Pigment Liquid Lipstick [7] ($22) up to dispense the formula onto the cutie sponge applicator. Dab onto lips for a soft stain, or add a few layers for a more opaque colour.
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
We like to consider the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick [8] ($22) the OG of liquid lipstick. It's creamy, full-coverage, and long-lasting — what's not to love?!
Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick
What qualifies Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick [9] ($24) for a spot on our list is its eight-hour wear that's nondrying — the true dream!
Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Racy Liquid Velvet Lip
Oh hey, cutie! We might be a bit biased, but our Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Racy Liquid Velvet Lip [10]($24) is a bold and nourishing liquid lip option. We credit the special polymer that locks the colour in place.
Kylie Cosmetics Velvet Lip Kit | Ulta Beauty
Arguably the most famous liquid lip, KYLIE COSMETICS Velvet Lip Kit [11] ($27) is considered by many as the be-all and end-all of matte lips. Our take? The lip liner and matte formula allows you to craft the bold, plump lips of your dreams.
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Metallic Lipcolor
Looking for a liquid lip that does something different? The Revlon Ultra HD Matte Metallic Lipcolor [12]($10) comes in a range of metallic nudes for a subtle touch of glam.
Lipstick Queen Medieval Tinted Lip 'Lixir'
Not only does the Lipstick Queen Medieval Tinted Lip 'Lixir' [13] ($20) combine hydration and colour, it also comes in this universally flattering shade of red. Perfect for anyone looking to achieve that iconic lip look.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick
The Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick [14] ($20) is a beauty editor fave for a few different reasons. First, it's long-wearing and smudge-resistant; second it's waterproof. So obviously, it makes for the perfect vacay lip.
ColourPop Swing Away Ultra Blotted Lip
Sometimes we want a lip that's there, but not really there, ya' know? If you have no idea what we're talking about, just try the ColourPop Swing Away Ultra Blotted Lip [15] ($7) that helps you re-create that "I just ate a cherry popsicle" look we all strive for.
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip
Don't mind us as we literally swoon over the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip [16] ($24). We're particularly smitten with this soft matte chocolatey shade.