If you’re no stranger to the world of cosmetics, you probably already know by now that finding the best matte lipstick is as difficult as finding one’s soulmate, if not more. In fact, I found my soulmate before I found a matte lipstick I like. But you must’ve been brought here by fate, because here is where you’ll find a variety of matte lipsticks, one of which will no doubt end your search.
Before you take a look at your potential happily-ever-after lipsticks, however, let’s talk about what makes a good matte lipstick, if only to make your search faster and a little bit easier.
- How to Choose the Best Matte Lipstick
- Top 10 Best Matte Lipsticks 2024
- 1. Best Overall Pick: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
- 2. Best Budget Pick: NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream
- 3. Best Premium Pick: MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick
- 4. Best Drugstore: Maybelline New York SuperStay Matte Ink
- 5. Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick
- 6. L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick
- 7. Best Matte Balm: Revlon Color Burst Matte Balm
- 8. Milani Color Statement Matte Lipstick
- 9. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick
- 10. Best Vegan: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
- Guide to Buying the Best Matte Lipstick
- Final Thoughts
How to Choose the Best Matte Lipstick
Picking out a matte lipstick can be difficult if you don’t know what you want. There are different types afterall, like bullet lipstick, liquid lipstick, matte balm, and lip crayon. And even if you did, there’s a chance you’ll pick the wrong one. To minimize this chance, we’ve outlined the most important features you need to consider when purchasing a matte lipstick.
If you want to learn about the different types of matte lipstick first, feel free to skip ahead to that section.
Formulation and Application
Matte lipsticks use different ingredients and materials to try and perfect certain aspects. Some of them will offer all of the coveted features at a high price point, while others are cheaper but will only focus on one or two.
Easy to Apply: If you don’t have much experience with matte lipsticks in general, you should probably get one that has a creamy texture that glides flawlessly on the lips. And if it’s a liquid lipstick, you’ll want one with an efficient applicator to help prevent mistakes.
Non-Drying: Matte lipsticks are notorious for drying out lips. If you have dry, cracked lips all the time, you’ll want something moisturizing or hydrating like Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm.
Comfortable: Originally, you couldn’t put comfortable and matte lipstick in the same sentence. But cosmetic companies have upped their game in the last few years, so now you have options like Stila All Day Liquid Lipstick and Milani Color Statement Lipstick that don’t only feel comfortable, but also feel weightless on the lips.
Staying Power
This is arguably the most important factor in deciding which matte lipstick to get. Practically every makeup wearer wants something that’ll last all day, last through any kind of weather or emotion or even food. And of course, they want that to last beautifully instead of feathering, flaking or cracking.
Fast Drying Time: Some lipsticks dry fast and some don’t, especially liquid lipsticks. If you want to be out the door within five minutes of applying your lipstick, you’re going to want to pick out a fast-drying lipstick.
Minimal Transfer: This is important if you’re looking for a lipstick that will last through snacks, meals, or drinks throughout the day. When matte lipstick transfers it can stain the area around your mouth, which obviously isn’t a pretty look. The best in this department would be the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick.
Long-Wearing: If you’re not a fan of carrying a compact on you or going to the bathroom several times a day for a touch-up, you’ll want something that stays put for hours. And for extra-long shifts at work, you’ll want something that lasts up to 16 hours.
Shades and Pigmentation
Most of the best matte lipsticks offer a wide selection of shades, so you’ll definitely find one that matches your complexion. But you should be careful when picking out a shade. Sometimes, the color of the packaging or the color you see in the tube is misleading. The lipstick may dry out to a darker shade, or to a totally different shade.
You won’t have to worry about pigmentation as long as you pick one from the options below. All of them are highly pigmented, except for one option that isn’t as pigmented but has more to offer in the comfort department. It’s a good trade-off for those who prefer comfort over pigmentation.
Ready to pick out a matte lipstick? Take a look at the options below and find one that matches your preferences the most.
Top 10 Best Matte Lipsticks 2024
1. Best Overall Pick: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 12 hours
- Shades: 17
A liquid lipstick with a cult following which Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez helped grow, Stila All Day has most of the qualities you’d want in an ideal matte lipstick. Staying power much stronger than your ex and a selection of shades that look phenomenal on almost every skin tone are just a couple of the things that make Stila All Day the best matte lipstick in the market right now.
Formulation and Application
All Stila products are cruelty-free, and this lipstick is no exception. It’s not vegan, however, so if that’s what you’re looking for, you can skip ahead to the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint.
This lipstick is really creamy to the point of being gloppy. You’ll notice it seems more like a lip gloss upon application as it’s wet and shiny, but once it dries, the result is a true matte that isn’t too drying thanks to the vitamin E and avocado combo in the formula.
Oh, but don’t be alarmed if it’s a lighter color than you expect when you first start applying it. It’ll turn to its actual, darker color after it dries. It also feels almost weightless on the lips, and it smells just like cupcakes—which is a huge plus if you’re averse to the strong, chemical scent in many makeup products.
You’ll need to practice applying this lipstick a few times before you go out wearing it for the first time, since it requires precision and needs to be applied perfectly. If you make a mistake, it’ll be hard to get it off. You’ll most likely want to use a lip liner for easier application, especially if you own a darker shade.
Staying Power and Shades
Stila All Day dries almost instantly and doesn’t feel sticky, but it may still transfer a little so be sure to have a tissue on your person. It does stay pretty much all day, however, even after two meals and a few drinks. Sure, it won’t look as fresh after the first 8 hours, but your lips won’t be completely devoid of color. Just don’t eat a burger or a burrito or anything greasy, or you’ll most likely need to reapply.
Speaking of reapplying, you should try to take it off completely before you reapply, or else it will look clumpy. As mentioned before, it is pretty hard to take off, but here’s a simple trick: apply some lip balm and it won’t be as tough.
All 17 shades are highly pigmented, so you’ll only need to coat your lips once. That may not be an easy feat though if you haven’t practiced enough.
Pros
- Lasts pretty much all day
- Not as drying
- Cruelty-free
- Minimal transfer
- Smells good
Cons
- Application can be hard
- May need to use a lip liner
- Expensive
2. Best Budget Pick: NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 12 hours
- Shades: 31
If you want the best matte lipstick but don’t want to spend a fortune, NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream is a solid choice, especially if you’re partial to liquid lipstick in general. Sure, its staying power isn’t as great as Stila Stay All Day, but at less than $7, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an inexpensive option as impressive as this NYX lip cream.
Formulation and Application
The cruelty-free NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream boasts a velvety, creamy formulation made from ingredients that won’t get your lips all dry and cracked like the Sahara. Because of this creamy consistency, application is a breeze, not to mention the applicator is designed to act as a lip liner, allowing you to draw more precise lines for that perfect pout every single time.
However, just because it’s more moisturizing than the average matte lipstick doesn’t mean it’s okay to apply it without a barrier. You’ll still need to moisturize your lips using a lip balm or the equivalent for best results. Thankfully, this lip cream is very lightweight, so even with ChapStick underneath, you’ll barely notice wearing anything.
Staying Power and Shades
You’ll need to give it at least 20 minutes to dry so it doesn’t transfer onto whatever you lay your lips on, but one hour would be the ideal wait time. It’s not 100% transfer-proof, but if you let it dry all the way, there should only be minimal transfer—unless of course, you’re planning on doing some major eating or smoochin.’
It’ll last up to 12 hours provided that you don’t drink or eat anything—but that’s rather unrealistic, so expect to reapply it two to three times throughout the day, and more if you’re a heavy coffee-drinker.
As for the shades, the Nyx Soft Matte Lip Cream comes in 31 beautiful shades, so you’re guaranteed to find a color to match every occasion. Each shade is highly pigmented as well, and you’ll see that even one coating is enough to hide your lips’ natural color, no matter how vivid.
Now for the major con—the colors look different from how they look online, so there’s a big chance you’ll order the wrong shade if you’ve never tried that shade on you before. The only way to reduce this risk is to compare customer images.
Pros
- Lasts up to 12 hours
- More moisturizing than most matte lipsticks
- Cruelty-free
- Minimal transfer once completely dry
- Easy application
- 31 shades
Cons
- You’ll still need to moisturize your lips
- Not food- or drink-proof
- Takes a while to dry
- Needs to be reapplied at least two to three times throughout the day
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Bullet Lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 10 hours
- Shades: 6
An iconic lipstick that has stood the test of time, the MAC Retro Matte Lipstick continues to be the best matte lipstick in the premium range. Now considered a classic, it evokes a certain level of sophistication reminiscent of 1930-50s ladies like Audrey Hepburn. It’s definitely a great buy despite the hefty price tag if you want to look like a million bucks.
Formulation and Application
Because of the smooth and creamy texture, this lipstick will glide over your lips with ease. It’s so creamy that you can actually use a lip brush to apply it instead of applying it straight from the tube. You’re guaranteed to get ultimate control and precision that way.
On top of that, it’s very moisturizing, so instead of leaving your lips all dry, it will actually make your lips feel soft and smooth. But if your lips are already cracked and dry, you should definitely moisturize them before application.
The lipstick is also very lightweight, and doesn’t feel sticky at all. It comes with a pleasant vanilla scent, too. Unfortunately, even though it’s 2021 now, MAC still isn’t cruelty-free (or vegan). It seems to be lagging behind in that department.
Staying Power and Shades
The MAC Retro lipstick won’t be completely transfer-proof once it dries down because it’s so rich and pigmented, but the transfer is very minimal. It won’t fade after a meal, or crease, or crack throughout the day.
It’ll last up to 12 hours provided you stay away from greasy food and eat carefully so the food doesn’t touch your lips. If that sounds like too much work, you might want to go for L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick instead, as it’s more transfer- and food-proof than the MAC lipstick.
This specific listing is only for the Ruby Woo shade, which is a beautiful, classic blue-based red lipstick that looks good on any skin color and can be worn for any occasion. If you’re looking for something pink, there’s the All Fired Up, but if you want something more purple, there’s the Flat Out Fabulous. The remaining shades are Runway Hit, Dangerous, and Relentlessly Red.
If you’re on the fence because of the price, you could try the Milani Color Statement Lipstick instead. It’s another fantastic bullet matte lipstick that’s less than half the price.
Pros
- Easy application
- Moisturizing
- Lasts up to 12 hours
- Won’t fade, crease, or crack
- Not sticky
Cons
- Expensive
- Not 100% transfer-proof
- Limited color selection
4. Best Drugstore: Maybelline New York SuperStay Matte Ink
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 16 hours
- Shades: 45
Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink is the stay-put lipstick you never knew you needed, especially nowadays where you have to wear a mask everywhere. A matte lipstick that’s guaranteed to last through every bite of food or sip of a drink, Maybelline SuperStay matte ink lives up to its name of being a ”SuperStay” long-wearing lipstick.
Formulation and Application
The SuperStay Matte Ink comes in a creamy, thick formula that’s a little more on the heavy side although it’ll hardly bother you at all. Because it glides on glossy at first, you’ll be able to apply it easily and rather quickly. Not to mention it has a unique arrow applicator that makes drawing the perfect pout a breeze because it picks up just the right amount of product for you to cover your entire lips. Note that it’s a little sticky at first, but it’ll get better as it dries.
Once it’s dry, you’ll see it feels comfortable and is not entirely drying, although we still recommend applying a lip balm now and then to prevent any cracking or crevices from appearing. Speaking of comfortable, this lipstick comes with a very strong vanilla (sometimes chocolate) scent, so if you’re not a fan of that, it may not be for you.
Maybelline may not be cruelty-free, but at less than $10 a tube, you’ll have a hard time finding another product that’s as long-lasting in this price range.
Staying Power and Shades
It takes 15 to 20 minutes to dry into a complete transfer-proof, zero-touch-up matte that will not budge until you take it off at the end of the day. It will literally last up to 16 hours as long as you don’t eat really greasy food and go on a makeout marathon.
Made with diversity in mind, the SuperStay Matte Ink comes in 45 highly saturated gorgeous shades that are guaranteed to cover your entire lip color no matter how dark in just one swipe. From your rouge reds, nudes, browns, to pinky every day and even some funky colors to boot, Maybelline Matte Ink has you covered. There’s pretty much every shade for every mood, OOTD, or occasion.
If we were to fault it with something, it’s that its staying power can be both a blessing and a curse. You would seriously need either a micellar water or an oil-based remover to get this lipstick off your lips. Luckily, Maybelline also offers its own SuperStay Lip Color Remover to make your already busy life a little easier.
Pros
- Lasts up to 16 hours
- Smudge-proof, transfer-proof, smear-proof, waterproof, food-proof
- Unique arrow applicator for easy and precise application
- 45 highly saturated shades
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Strong sweet vanilla-like scent
- Needs oil-based remover/micellar water to remove
- Needs lip balm throughout the day
5. Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 8 hours
- Shades: 28
Anastasia Beverly Hills has been a cult favorite for years, and their line of matte liquid lipstick continues to wow not just long-time users but first-time users as well. If you’re looking for a premium option in the form of a liquid lipstick, this one from Anastasia Beverly Hills is the way to go.
Formulation and Application
The Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid has a nice, creamy, non-sticky formula that almost feels like a mix between a mousse and a liquid lipstick. It feels comfortable and lightweight, and while it may feel drying on your lips, it doesn’t actually dry them out that much. You might feel the need to apply some lip balm after several hours, however.
Unlike other matte lipsticks, the formula of this lipstick is versatile enough that you can use a small amount of it to stain your lips using your finger. You could also press it onto your cheeks as a blush.
The double-sided flat applicator it comes with has a rounded tip that picks up the right amount of product, allowing for a more precise application. You can also use the tip to create a lip line instead of using a lip liner.
If we had to fault this lipstick, it’s that the formula can be different depending on the color you get. Some are thicker while others are runnier. Lighter colors may also be a little patchy and require two coats to get a completely opaque look.
Staying Power and Shades
The Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick dries down to a true matte that lasts between six and eight hours depending on what and how often you drink and eat. It’s most likely that you’ll need a touch-up after five hours, but luckily it doesn’t flake or feel heavy with reapplication.
It comes in 28 glamorous shades, with Dusty Rose being the most popular one. You can mix and match different shades to create the perfect look without losing pigment.
Note that the actual color of the product may be different from the photos, and they usually turn darker once they’ve dried down.
Pros
- Creamy, non-sticky formula
- Doesn’t dry out lips as much
- Can be used as a lip stain or blush
- Doesn’t flake with touch-ups
- Shades can be mixed and matched
Cons
- Inconsistent formula
- May feel dry on your lips
- Lighter colors may look patchy
- Color may be different from photos
6. L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 16 hours
- Shades: 10
Finally, a lippy for people who like to snack all day. Just as the name says, L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick is infallible, and will continue to stay no matter what you eat or drink. It’s the best matte lipstick for long shifts and anyone who doesn’t like doing touch-ups. What’s even better is that it’s a drugstore brand so it won’t cost you over $10.
Formulation and Application
This lipstick is backed by celebrity makeup artists, including Beyoné’s makeup artist, Sir John, particularly for its mousse-y and creamy texture that goes on easily on the lips once applied. It comes with a unique pro-sculpt applicator that’s similar to what the Maybelline SuperStay has, so it guarantees an easy and precise application without the need for any lip liner.
Since this lipstick is very pigmented, you only need a little bit of it to coat your lips, but the applicator will pick up more than necessary, so there’s a chance it’ll get cakey. If this happens to you, just put a dot on your lip using the applicator and spread it evenly with your finger.
It sits somewhere in the middle when it comes to moisture level so you might want to use a lip butter or balm for comfort.
Another thing to note about this product is that it has a certain sticky feel that persists throughout the day, so that might put you off. But since it’s inexpensive, lightweight, and long-wearing, it might not be a deal-breaker for some.
Staying Power and Shades
The Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick is very similar to the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink when it comes to drying time and staying power. You have to wait 15 to 20 minutes for this lipstick to dry, but then you get about 16 hours of wear time once it does.
Its staying power is a little bit more formidable though, since it won’t budge even with binge-eating or a smoldering make-out sesh. But it’s also a double-edged sword just like the SuperStay lipstick—it’s so hard to remove that you’ll need an oil-based remover or a micellar water to get it off your lips.
Another con is that the shade range leaves much to be desired since it only has 10 shades and only a few would suit deeper complexions. Fortunately, since the product line’s release, L’Oreal has come up with the Infallible Les Macarons and the Les Chocolats to cater to a wider customer base.
Pros
- Lasts up to 16 hours
- Food and drink-proof
- Pro-sculpt applicator for precise application
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Stickiness that persists throughout the day
- Requires oil-based remover or micellar water to remove
7. Best Matte Balm: Revlon Color Burst Matte Balm
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Lip crayon
- Permanence: A few hours
- Shades: 9
If you’ve always coveted the matte finish for your lips but have been on the fence about trying matte lipstick because of how drying they normally are, the Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm may just be the best matte lipstick for you. And at less than $6 per stick, it’s a low-risk gamble you’ll most likely win.
Formulation and Application
Surprisingly, or perhaps unsurprisingly because it’s a balm, the ColorBurst Matte Balm has a soft, smooth, creamy texture that makes it really easy to apply. It literally just glides on your lips like a regular balm, and it also gives you the same minty, cool feeling that balms give.
And thanks to the combination of shea, coconut, and mango butter, it’s very hydrating and comfortable to wear, and feels very thin on the lips. If you’re going to wear a lip balm anyway, might as well wear one that offers a burst of matte color, especially during the cold winter months.
Since this lipstick is in the shape of a crayon, it’s easy to draw precise lines around the lips. You won’t really need to sharpen it either since it’s one of those twist-up ones.
Staying Power and Shades
Because this is a lip crayon balm, the staying power is just okay at best. It will survive a drink or two, but if you eat a regular meal, you’ll most likely need to reapply since it’s not transfer-proof. The good thing is that touch-ups are a breeze because of how smooth it glides.
Even without eating or drinking, it will fade away in a few hours, but it won’t be patchy or ugly. In fact, the stain it leaves is rather lovely.
The Revlon Matte Balm comes in nine fun shades that are so pigmented you’ll find it hard to believe at first that they’re just lip balms. You can lightly dab and spread it for a subtle look, or do a full swipe for a bolder look.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Moisturizing
- Pigmented
- Cool, minty feel
- Leaves a nice stain after fading
Cons
- Not transfer-proof
- Only lasts a few hours
8. Milani Color Statement Matte Lipstick
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Bullet Lipstick
- Permanence: Up to 5 hours
- Shades: 16
Milani Color Statement Matte Lipstick is the best matte lipstick for you if you’re looking for a reliable bullet lipstick but are unwilling to splurge on MAC Retro Matte Lipstick. It’s a budget-friendly option at less than $10 a stick, and it’s cruelty-free, too.
Formulation and Application
The formula may not be as creamy as other bullet lipsticks in this guide, but it’s creamy enough that it’ll glide smoothly on your lips, even if they were dry. It’s not as moisturizing as the brand makes it seem, but it won’t dry out your already dry lips even more.
It feels very comfortable even if you coat your lips more than once since it’s pretty weightless. It actually feels more comfortable than the MAC Retro lipstick.
Staying Power and Shades
This lipstick doesn’t completely dry, so it will transfer a little, although not as much as other lipsticks do. It’ll last up to five hours if you barely drink or eat anything, but if you eat a full meal, you’ll definitely need to reapply. The good thing is that the lipstick doesn’t really feather as it fades, so it’ll still look nice on your lips.
There are 15 available shades, some of which remain true to their color throughout the wear while others start to stain after a few hours. While the pigmentation is pretty decent, it’s not as opaque or thick as the MAC Retro lipstick, so you will need to coat two or more times to get a good color payoff.
Pros
- Not as drying
- Feels comfortable
- Doesn’t feather as it fades
Cons
- Needs two or more coatings
- Doesn’t last long
- Fades after a meal
9. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Bullet
- Permanence: A few hours
- Shades: 30
If you’re more concerned about how matte lipstick feels on your lips than how long it lasts, Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick is the perfect matte lipstick for you. While it does offer the coveted matte finish, it doesn’t feel like a matte lipstick at all. Priced at less than $7, it’s a low-risk high-reward investment.
Formulation and Application
The first thing you’ll notice when you apply this lipstick is that it’s very creamy and velvety, which is impressive for a bullet matte lipstick. The consistency is so thin that it almost feels like a lip balm. It goes on easily in one swipe and doesn’t dry the lips out at all. In fact, it’s the opposite—it’ll actually make your lips feel all soft and smooth.
It doesn’t feel as weightless as most of the options in this guide, but it is the most comfortable. And when you’re already suffering from dry, chapped lips, it’s truly a godsend.
Staying Power and Shades
So here’s the catch: this isn’t a long-wearing lipstick at all. It transfers to literally anything—glass, food, clothes, your very own teeth—name it! Don’t ever wear a mask over it or it’ll look like a lipstick crime scene. You can minimize the transfer by blotting the lipstick well after application. But if you eat anything, you will need to reapply.
It will last a few hours, however, assuming you don’t talk or drink anything. But it’s so easy to apply that touch-ups shouldn’t be such a big deal. The good thing is that when it does last, it doesn’t get cakey, and the color stays true.
As for the shades and pigmentation, all 30 shades are very pigmented, which is pretty good for something so inexpensive. You’ll only need a little bit to coat your entire lips.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Moisturizing
- Inexpensive
- Very pigmented
Cons
- Doesn’t last long
- Transfers to everything
10. Best Vegan: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Liquid
- Permanence: A few hours
- Shades: 9
Rihanna had diversity and “universally-flattering” in mind when she created the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint. It doesn’t matter what your complexion is, your lips will go from 0 to bombshell real quick with this lipstick. Luxury in a tiny bottle, the Stunna Lip Paint will set you back almost $30 for a tube that’s half the size of your average liquid lipstick, but it’s about the only vegan matte lipstick out there that won’t disappoint.
Formulation and Application
You’ll be happy to know that not only is this lipstick 100% vegan and cruelty-free, but Fenty Beauty also doesn’t allow their suppliers or affiliates to do any animal testing on their behalf.
However, in terms of formulation and application, it’s definitely not the best matte lipstick around. It goes on really thick so it’s easy to apply too much. And application is pretty tricky, too. If you don’t get it right the first time, you’ll likely need to redo your makeup. In order to draw more precise lines, you’ll need to flip the rigid applicator upside down.
If you do manage to apply the right amount, you’ll see it is very lightweight and feels barely noticeable on your lips.
Staying Power and Shades
Since the Stunna Lip paint dries down to a soft matte finish, and soft matte lipsticks generally aren’t known for their staying power, you should blot a few times on a tissue to minimize transfer. Even when it’s fully dry, it will still transfer and smear, so it might not be the best lipstick to wear to a date or fancy dinner. It also doesn’t last very long—just a few hours at most.
But if the color is too tempting and too beautiful not to wear, just proceed with caution and carry a compact mirror with you wherever you go.
Speaking of beautiful, this lipstick has nine shades that have been carefully selected and tested to make sure it looks good on any complexion. And they’re all so crazy pigmented that if you learn how to not overapply, the small tube should last over a year even with daily application.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Universally-flattering
- Highly-saturated shades
- Lightweight
Cons
- Expensive
- Tricky application
- Transfers and smears
Guide to Buying the Best Matte Lipstick
By now, you probably already have a few options in mind and are excited to add them to your cart. Before you do that, you might want to read the supplemental information as well as the tips we’ve included below to achieve the best results.
Different Types of Matte Lipstick
As mentioned before, there are different types of matte lipstick, with each one having its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Bullet Lipsticks
They’re a classic and have been popular for literally decades. It’s the best type for beginners since it’s really easy to apply and it’s also relatively easy to remove.
Liquid Lipsticks
Liquid lipsticks have gained a lot of popularity in the last decade, thanks to beauty vloggers and celebrities like Kylie Jenner. They’re a lot more difficult to apply than bullet lipsticks, so if you’re a beginner, you’ll definitely need a lot of practice. Because of the wetter consistency, you’ll be more prone to overcoating and making mistakes.
But there’s a high reward to people who apply them properly—they are very pigmented, long-wearing, and generally don’t transfer or smudge. Unfortunately, they are very drying and can be uncomfortable if worn for long periods, so if you have dry lips it’s not the best type of lipstick to wear.
Lip Crayons
Made to look like jumbo crayons, lip crayons can act not just as a lipstick, but also as a lip-liner. It’s a good option if you like the convenience of owning two-in-one cosmetics. And what’s even more convenient about it is that lip crayons generally have a twist-up core, so they don’t require any sharpening.
Lip crayons start to get dull at the tip the more you use them, which is kind of annoying since you can’t sharpen them. To avoid this problem, only use the pointy part to line your lips and use the sides to fill the color in on your lips.
Matte Balms
This type is basically an extremely pigmented lip balm that has a matte finish. Some of them are in bullet form, some in lip crayon form, and some in the standard lip balm form. Like any other lip balm, matte balms are moisturizing, so they’re perfect for those who prefer to wear a lip balm but also want to explore the world of matte.
How to Wear Matte Lipstick
Below you’ll learn how to apply a matte lipstick, as well as how to prep your lips for it and how to remove it.
Prepping Your Lips
Prepping your lips increases your chances of nailing that flawless matte look. As much as possible, don’t skip the steps below if you’re going to wear matte lipstick.
- Exfoliate your lips using a lip scrub to get rid of the dead skin cells.
- Moisturize your lips with a lip balm to keep your lips feeling soft and smooth.
- Prime your lips with a lip primer so the lipstick stays put.
Applying Matte Lipstick
In case you’ve only ever worn lip balms, satin or cream lipsticks, lip gloss, or nothing at all, here are some videos that’ll teach you how to properly apply matte lipstick:
Once you’re done, make sure to blot your lips on a piece of tissue or toilet paper to get rid of excess product.
Removing Matte Lipstick
Matte lipstick generally isn’t very easy to remove, but no matter how tough it is, you definitely have to remove it before you go to sleep. Otherwise, you’ll end up with chapped lips the next day.
If you can’t remove it using water, you could try applying some lip balm, vaseline, or coconut oil and leaving it there for 30 seconds to a minute before wiping it off with a tissue. If that doesn’t do anything, you’ll need to use a micellar water or an oil-based remover. Once it’s removed, remember to apply some lip balm so your lips are moisturized while you sleep.
Matte Lipstick Shelf Life
Before you start hoarding matte lipsticks, you should know that lipstick, and other types of cosmetics, don’t last forever. Solid lipsticks can last between 12 and 24 months, while liquid lipsticks made by reputable brands can last up to two years.
While the texture and pigmentation may stay the same (which might encourage you to keep using them), expired cosmetics can start to cause bacteria buildup which may lead to an infection, rashes, or acne.
Final Thoughts
Because we understand just how frustrating it is to buy a matte lipstick and later find out that it’s not what you’re looking for, we put this guide together to help you find your match in 2021. As long as you follow this guide, watch the videos, and make use of the tips, you’ll start looking like a beauty vlogger in no time.