:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x0:1001x2)/lipsticks-people-tested-social-tout-9963feba79874abba7fd735c347bc35d.png?w=1500&resize=1500,1000&ssl=1 "We Tested Taylor Swift's Go-To Long-Lasting Lipstick and 14 Others")
In the ever-elusive hunt for makeup that stays all day, PEOPLE tested the best long-lasting lipsticks that money can buy. Our team swiped on each stay-put formula, evaluating comfort and pigment before powering through our busy days. Hours later, we checked back in to see if they smudged, budged, or feathered.
Experts Say
When considering lipsticks, “you want the color to stay true while also being comfortable to wear,” celebrity makeup artist John Stapleton tells PEOPLE. “While long-wearing products may stand the test of time, there are practical steps to prevent them from feeling dry and looking crusty.”
Our list includes a wealth of popular long-lasting lipsticks — including those that grace the lips of celebrities like Taylor Swift and the clients of celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg.
Read on for the best long-lasting lipsticks for all-day wear that PEOPLE Tested.
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Applies with a buttery-smooth finish
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Design keeps edges clean without lip liner
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Doesn’t dry, cake, or bleed
The votes are in, and Mac Matte Lipstick came out on top. Our team raved that the lipstick went on as smooth as butter and never dried, bled, or caked during hours of wear. The tube’s traditional bullet tip felt made for clean edges, so there’s no need for a lip liner. We also love that it’s available in a rainbow of shades to flatter any skin tone.
Though the lipstick is celebrated for its comfortable feel, we had to apply multiple coats if we wanted a more saturated pop of color, but that might not be a bad thing. Overall, the color is more natural so this easily can be an everyday lipstick. The finish was so smooth that we almost forgot we had it on. While the lipstick didn’t smudge on the run, it did transfer a bit towards the end of the trial. Overall, this Mac classic was crowned the winner for its moisturizing might and fade-free wear.
Type: Bullet | Shade Range: 30 | Size: 0.1 ounces
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This colorful lipstick adds the perfect pop of color to your pout with a highly pigmented formula that applies with ease. The arrow-tipped applicator allows you to glide this liquid lipstick across the contours of your lips, creating full coverage without straying from the lines. We loved that we didn’t need much product for a full impact.
Though a liquid formula, this makeup has a matte finish, so you won’t see any unwanted shine. This lipstick features a range of deep pinks and reds with a few nudes scattered in. The only hiccup is it contains several flammable ingredients (not unheard of in makeup products), so maybe wait until it’s dry to blow out any candles. We appreciated the minimal transfer despite wearing it all day and considering the low price, we think this is a winner for affordable makeup.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 30 | Size: 0.17 ounces
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Doesn’t feel tacky
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Impressive number of nude shades
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Pigment is rich yet buildable
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Dries to a soft, matte finish
Albeit an investment lipstick, the Dior Rouge Forever is one of the best long-lasting lipsticks we tried — and we think it’s well worth the splurge. This formula features rich pigments that look gorgeous in just one coat but still have a level of buildability to them so you can customize your wear. In addition to providing your pout with some color, the formula also features red peony extract to support hydration levels, as well as jojoba oil for long-lasting comfort.
We also love that the lipstick goes on like a gloss — it’s super easy to glide across the pout — but it dries with a soft, matte finish. And the pigments are completely transfer-proof, so you don’t have to worry about reapplying every 30 minutes (even after eating and drinking).
Type: Tube | Shade Range: 36 | Size: 0.11 ounces
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Even the packaging is luxurious
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Rich, bold formula that doesn’t cause dryness
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Highly pigmented shades
We’re obsessed with all things Pat McGrath, and this lipstick is no exception. Upon first glance, even the lipstick case screams luxury and sophistication, and the smooth lipstick waiting inside delivers. It has a velvety finish and feels so smooth.
With a range of shades highlighting rose pinks, dark nudes, and wine reds, this lipstick is only lacking in lighter nudes. Each shade is highly pigmented and you can see it after sweeping a single coat across your lips. Our team appreciated the minimal transfer, and how smooth and nourishing it felt during application and wear. Though a little pricier than other lipsticks on this list, we think this lipstick is worth the splurge with its beautiful color and incredible texture.
Type: Bullet | Shade Range: 37 | Size: 0.14 ounces
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No lip service here — this product is as matte as they make it. KVD Beauty Everlasting Longwear Liquid Lipstick came out sticky and thick and instantly dried to a completely matte finish. The vegan formula delivers vivid color with just one coat, and the powerful pigment stays put even while eating and drinking. This lipstick doesn’t budge. Due to the matte nature of this lipstick, it’s not super hydrating, and we did experience some dryness. That said, the creamy formula was unmatched when it came to mattifying benefits.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 30 | Size: 0.22 ounces
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It’s lipstick! It’s gloss! It’s…both. This liquid serves up a matte lipstick and a top-coat gloss in one applicator for a shiny sturdy lip that will last all day. This creamy formula provides the ultimate softness and rich color to outline your smile.
The lipstick dried matte very quickly upon application but grew softer and more hydrating after applying the gloss. It provides that nice, glossy look, but with minimal smudging — though some did occur during our transfer test. The pigmented formula allowed for an easy once-over, and we didn’t need more than one coat to apply the full effect. When you consider the low price, dual applicator, and quality of the makeup itself, this buy is a no-brainer.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 30 | Size: 0.22 ounces
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Rihanna does it again! Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color was ranked a makeup bag must for the unbelievable tint it brings with just one coat. We did have some trouble applying the liquid lipstick since the formula is packaged in a triangular tube with a small wand applicator.
A little went a long way, with one swipe doing the trick for vivid pigment — but the color transferred when we drank or ate. We also wish that Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color came in more colors; pale pink and sheer shades are notably absent from its lineup.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 6 | Size: 0.13 ounces
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Doesn’t dry out the lips
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Creates a smooth, soft-focus finish
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Bold color range for super-pigmented lips
If you’re looking for a new perfect nude lip for your skin tone, look no further because it’s in this collection. Of course, if you’re looking for bold colors, this creamy formula offers an array of those too, along with its signature suede finish, which creates a soft-focus look that’s almost ethereal.
It’s a long-lasting bullet, but not drying at all, and we loved how it can apply with just one swipe. After six hours of wearing this lipstick, we had to touch it up slightly, but we were amazed at how long it lasted without smudging (even after eating).
Type: Bullet | Shade Range: 20 | Size: Not listed
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Creamy, comfortable, lightweight texture
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Buildable formula that starts as a tint
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Doesn’t have a tacky surface
The Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick is our top pick for the best lightweight lipstick. This formula comes in 15 different shades and is designed with lotus, gardenia, white water lily, and vitamin E to soften and hydrate the lips. We love this lipstick because it has a rich and creamy texture that goes on comfortably like a gloss but dries more matte and doesn’t have that tacky consistency.
It’s also one of the best buildable formulas, as just one coat gives the look of a tint, while a couple of additional applications make lips look more pigmented. In addition to its nourishing formula, the lipstick feels super lightweight on the lips and is comfortable enough for all-day wear, and while it does transfer a little, it’s not enough to need a complete reapplication.
Type: Cream | Shade Range: 15 | Size: 0.13 ounces
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Consider the MAC Powder Kiss Velvet Blur Slim Stick for a lipstick that gives your pout some color and provides plenty of nourishment. This lipstick is formulated to provide deep hydration upon application and over time, helping to support lip health. While it has a matte finish, we love that the lipstick goes on creamy, as you can really feel its moisturizing benefits (plus, it’s way easier to apply an even coat with a creamy texture). And, although some of the pigment transfers over time, the hydration is long-lasting and deep-conditions the pout long after the color wears off.
Type: Tube | Shade Range: 23 | Size: 0.07 ounces
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The Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick is our top pick for the best smudge-proof lipstick and was honestly a close runner-up for the best drugstore formula, too. This liquid lipstick comes in 20 different shades and is easy to get a precise application thanks to its smooth liquid formula and cushioned wand. Although the formula goes on sheer and isn’t as pigmented as we would have liked, it’s possible to build coverage for a more customized look. On top of that, it dries fast on the lips and doesn’t budge throughout the day, so you don’t have to worry about smudging or bleeding into lip lines.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 20 | Size: Not listed
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Rich, full-bodied pigment
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Pencil style is easy to apply
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Highly versatile formula
NARS Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil is our top pick for this category because, despite being a pencil formula, it has more of a creamy finish that is easy to glide across the pout and goes on smoothly. The lipstick formula comes in 10 different colors, with lots of gorgeous pinks and several nudes to choose from. It’s also highly pigmented but doesn’t feel super overwhelming, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally creating too bold of a look. Additionally, the formula is versatile enough to wear in several ways, including on its own with a matte finish and layered with a slick of gloss on top for a nice touch of shine.
Type: Pencil | Shade Range: 10 | Size: 0.09 ounces
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While this may not have the most shades of any lipstick on our list, it has the best variety. This lipstick offers light, tan, and dark nudes, pinks, reds, and everything in between. This is a traditional liquid lipstick that dries down to a matte finish and stays put throughout the day.
The applicator is easy to use; the color payoff is amazing and it only needs one coat. While liquid lipsticks can be intimidating to some, we loved how easy the applicator made it to use. During our transfer test, this formula barely budged, which could be a con depending on how effective your makeup-removing products are. We definitely had a hard time getting it off after testing, but this just adds to its level of effectiveness as a long-lasting lipstick.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 15 | Size: 0.11 ounces
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For a budget-friendly lipstick, consider our top pick for the best drugstore formula, Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lipcolor. Despite its price tag, the formula feels super luxe. It goes on smoothly and has a more controlled application than other liquid lipstick formulas. It also has a full body pigment with a rich finish that is buildable enough to get custom coverage.
In addition to its formula, we were also impressed by the color range, especially for a drugstore buy. This liquid lipstick comes in 24 different shades, including several different nude options. Plus, it’s highly versatile and comes with the option to wear on its own or with the included clear gloss for added shine.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 24 | Size: Not listed
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Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Longwear Liquid Lipstick is our top pick for the best glossy long-wear lipstick. This formula is designed with a high-shine finish that feels more like a blend of lipstick and lip gloss, not lipstick with a gloss on top. It features an impressive color range with 19 different shades, too, including lots of pinks, nudes, reds, and some berries. Since it has a high gloss finish, the formula can feel a bit tacky on the pout, but it still feels lightweight and comfortable enough for long wear.
Type: Liquid | Shade Range: 19 | Size: 0.2 ounces
You’ll Also Need
While you’re deciding which long-lasting lipstick to add to your cart, you might also want to check out these other top-rated products to give your lips the full treatment. Our PEOPLE editors and independent testers gave them their hard-earned seal of approval after putting them through their paces.
Ilia Lip Wrap Reviving Balm
Sephora
We tested 29 lip balms and Ilia Lip Wrap Reviving Balm came out on top. It features hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and sea succulent that provide long-lasting moisture. It also has an easy-to-use squeeze tube with a slanted ceramic applicator tip. This balm has a glossy finish that doesn’t feel sticky.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Lip Liner
Urban Decay
After testing the top-rated lip liners, we determined that Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Lip Liner is one of the best. It’s easy to get a precise line that’s smudge-proof and doesn’t bleed or feather, even after wearing it for hours.
Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Glossy Lip Balm
Sephora
We love the lightweight and buildable Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Glossy Lip Balm. During testing, we appreciated that it gave us a glossy finish without requiring frequent reapplication. Plus, it gave our lips a bit of added nourishment thanks to the inclusion of lotus, gardenia, and water lily.
French Girl Rose Lip Polish Lip Scrub
Amazon
Our top pick for the best lip scrub — French Girl Rose Lip Polish — thoroughly impressed us during testing. The organic product is made with sugar to exfoliate and coconut oil, shea butter, and mango butter to moisturize the lips. This vegan and cruelty-free product is safe to use every day. We also love that mint and rose essential oils add a bit of plumpness to your pout.
What to Know About Long-Lasting Lipsticks
Coverage
When it comes to pigment preference, how strong do you want the color to be? “The more pigment in a product, generally, the stronger the wear,” says Stapleton. “Pigments can create a stain which attributes to the staying power. Glosses can come in many forms, some with sheer pigmentation, some with full-on color. This will make a difference in wearability.” If layering lip color sounds like a fuss or a bust, a lip stain or tint might be your best bet — just keep a steady hand when swiping on.
Application
How many steps are (or aren’t) in your lip routine? A beauty enthusiast who knows how to balance balms and lip liners need not fear more fussy liquid lipsticks, while traditional bullet-shaped tubes are the best buy for those in a rush. If a product’s applicator bugs you, you’re probably not going to use it.
And for some application tips: “Priming is key,” says Stapleton. “A primer is made up of film formers that glide over the surface of your lips and set up. They create a smoother, less-porous base so that your lipsticks can glide on and not be absorbed.” He suggests applying “a lip pencil to help with precision and [to] last, for your lipstick. This would give you the longest wear.”
Wear
Whether rose pink or vampy plum is your go-to hue, discerning which all-day stain best suits you from sunup to sundown could come down to trial and error.
People / Jessica Juliao
Behind the Scenes
To find the best long-lasting lipsticks, our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of formulas, narrowing down 27 selections to try.
- Texture and Feel: To analyze each lipstick, we applied the product to clean lips and let it dry, then reported on the immediate texture and feel.
- Transfer: We then let each lipstick dry for 10 minutes and conducted several lab tests on the formulas, including a tissue test, drinking cup test, eating test, and smear test. For the tissue test, we folded a white tissue in half and pressed it against our lips to get an idea of transfer. We then reapplied the formula, let it dry, and conducted a drinking test where we took a sip of water and made note of the potential transfer on the cup. After that, we touched up again and took a bite out of an apple to see how eating interfered with the application and staying power. In our final test, we used our fingers to gently press our lips and smear the formula to further our examination of its staying power.
- Overall Value: After all of our experiments were finished, we compiled our notes and compared each experience to determine which formulas were worthy of our seal of approval. As a result, we curated this list of the best long-lasting lipsticks.
People / Jessica Juliao
Frequently Asked Questions
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What do you wear under lipstick?
A light, moisturizing lip balm or lip primer makes the best base layer. Apply lip balm at the beginning of your skincare routine to let it absorb for a few minutes, then remove any excess before applying lipstick. It also helps to regularly treat your lips to help them receive lipstick better. “Think about using a lip conditioner at night to soften your lips for your morning routine,” says Stapleton. “Using a lip scrub weekly to slough off dead skin cells is also a great idea. Then use a primer before applying color.”
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Do lipsticks ever expire?
Yes, they do. “Depending on your formulas, a year is a good mark to pick up a new lipstick,” Stapleton recommends. “There is an indicator when to discontinue use on all secondary packaging. Look for the open jar with a number in it to tell you how many months your product will stay fresh upon opening.” Generally, lipsticks should be replaced every one to two years.
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How do you find your natural lip color?
Stapleton says you first have to ask what natural means to you. “Most folks turn to nudes to get a no-makeup look,” he says But lips tend to have a rosier quality. Start searching in the nude or flesh-toned selections. Swatch a few on your hands, then start moving into the nudes that offer a little more color.” Stapleton continues, “You’ll notice nudes that have more pink, orange, or even purple undertones. [You] gotta just try a few on.” Use your fingertip as a reference for swatch testing because it is closer to the color of your lip. There are also sites — such as MAC — where you can try on lipstick virtually.
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How do you get your lipstick to last all day long?
Start with exfoliated and hydrated lips. You may choose to follow with a primer, but this is optional and would benefit those with very dry lips the most. Next, use a liner with a similar color to line and completely fill in the lips. Then apply your lipstick, blot, and repeat until you get the color payout you want. Lastly, set the look by applying a thin layer of translucent powder.
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Are matte or liquid lipsticks better?
Matte is a type of finish while liquid is a way of describing the consistency and application method of the lipstick. There are matte liquid lipsticks, solid satin lipsticks, matte solid lipsticks, and more.
Solid lipstick is easy to apply, keeps your lips hydrated, and is easy to remove. On the other hand, liquid lipstick lasts longer, does not require a liner, and is highly pigmented. “Liquid lipsticks definitely pack a longer wearing punch,” says Stapleton. “When used with a primer, they will last all day and the primer will help alleviate dryness, tightness, and feathering.”
People / Jessica Juliao
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Madison Yauger is a senior commerce writer at PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. For this story, she spoke to MAC Cosmetics senior national makeup artist John Stapleton and celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg. She also used insights from our beauty lab in New York, where our team compared the texture, feel, and pigment of each long-lasting lipstick. Using this data paired with research from the industry, she created our favorites list of the best long-lasting lipsticks of 2024. Jessie Quinn, a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE, updated this article with seven additional long-lasting lipsticks based on insights from our PEOPLE Tested lab.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.