11 of the best lip stains for low-maintenance, long-lasting colour (2024)

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When it comes to long-lasting make-up, lip stains are an unsung hero. Perfect for those of us who prefer a low-maintenance beauty routine, they offer a great balance between long-lasting payoff and minimal upkeep. Once applied, lip stains lock in colour, meaning you don’t have to keep checking your reflection or rushing to reapply after every sip of coffee. They don’t smudge, they don’t bleed – they just stay put. Plus, the best lip stains can be your go-to for all occasions too. Whether you want an easy-breezy daytime lip or something to last through an entire date night, a great lip stain will ensure you don’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout dinner. And if you love a multitasker, many lip stains double as a cheek tint, giving you a subtle flush of colour in one swipe. From sheer tints that offer a hint of colour to the more intense stains that give bold, full-bodied pigment, there’s a lip stain for every need. Here are our tried-and-tested favourites…

The best lip stains to try now…

More than just a stain, this jelly-textured tint feels cool and refreshing upon application – perfect for a quick pick-me-up. Its sheer, buildable formula is ideal for those who want a natural flush of colour on both lips and cheeks.

For those who want a little bit more drama, Huda’s Creamy Lip Stain delivers high-impact, long-lasting pigment with a satin finish. It’s perfect for a night out when you need your lip colour to go the distance without drying out.

Combining hydration with bold colour, this lip tint is for anyone who suffers from dry lips but still wants a strong pigment. The two-tone design blends to create a unique shade that’s hydrating and striking.

A cult favourite for a reason, RMS Lip2Cheek offers beautiful, blendable colour that works on both lips and cheeks. The formula is packed with organic oils and butters, meaning it’s as nourishing as it is versatile.

This pen-style lip marker delivers precise application and a serious punch of colour. Its long-lasting formula doesn’t budge, making it great for all-day wear – perfect for those with busy schedules who don’t have time to touch up.

Leave it to Fenty to create a lip stain that hydrates while delivering serious pigment. This juicy stain offers a vibrant pop of colour while keeping lips hydrated all day. A must-have for those who want both colour and comfort.

For a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, e.l.f.’s Glossy Lip Stain provides a sheer wash of colour with a glossy finish. Perfect for a more casual look, it’s lightweight and comfortable to wear.

WH Beauty Editor Perdita Nouril says: 'This is one my go-to lip stains, it's matte enough so that it leaves behind a long lasting tint, but doesn't dry out lips. Pat it on to create a beautifully blurred lived in lip.'

This tint gives a ‘your lips but better’ effect. Its lightweight formula feels luxurious, and the buildable colour means you can go sheer or layer for more intensity.

For matte lip lovers, this lip tint delivers high-definition, velvety colour that lasts. The matte finish is perfect for those who prefer a more polished, statement look without the constant need for reapplication.