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MAC Matte Lipstick had the most impressive wear black makeup packaging
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based contributing shopping writer at PEOPLE with over 10 years of experience covering all things beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. At PEOPLE, she collaborates with the PEOPLE Tested team to share our top recommendations for everything from the best shapewear to the best dark spot correctors.
In the ever-elusive hunt for makeup that stays all day, PEOPLE tested the best matte lipsticks that money can buy. Our team swiped on each long-lasting lipstick, immediately evaluating comfort and pigment before powering through our busy days. Hours later, we looked back in the mirror to see if the lippie smudged, budged or feathered.
When considering lipsticks, "You want the color to stay true while also being comfortable to wear," MAC Cosmetics senior national 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 don the lips of celebrities like Taylor Swift as well as the clients of celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg.
Read on for the best long-lasting lipsticks for all-day wear, tested and reviewed by PEOPLE.
This lipstick applies with a buttery-smooth finish that doesn't dry, cake, or bleed.
There's no need for a lip liner; the bullet design keeps the edges clean.
It takes a few coats to build up the color enough to make an impact.
The votes are in, and the 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 oz.
It has a highly pigmented finish in a wide variety of shades for different preferences.
The arrow-tipped applicator keeps that process clean.
This has a matte finish, so if you want more of a glossy shine to your lips, we recommend others on this list.
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 (although 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 oz.
The formula glides onto the lips like a gloss but doesn’t feel tacky and dries with a soft, matte finish.
It features an impressive shade range with 36 different color options, including lots of nudes.
The pigment is rich yet buildable so you can get custom coverage.
The price is a little high for a lipstick, but considering the pigment and nourishing formula, we think it’s worth the splurge.
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
Even the packaging screams luxury
Rich, bold formula that doesn't cause dryness
Highly pigmented shades you can see after just one swipe across your lips
Not many light nude shades, which could be a con for those who prefer neutral makeup
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 oz.
It has a powerful pigment that stays in place.
It's made with a vegan formula without any harmful ingredients.
This lipstick is so matte that it can be a little drying.
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 oz.
It offers dual ends with gloss and lipstick options.
The lipstick and gloss combo dries quickly but continues to hydrate throughout the day.
The gloss did transfer some during our tests.
It's lipstick! It's gloss! It's…both. This liquid lipstick 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 hydrated 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 oz.
It's highly pigmented for a bold look with just one swipe.
It has a velvety, smooth finish.
There aren't many light pink or pale shades.
We had some trouble applying the lipstick due to the applicator shape.
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; a pale pink and sheer shades are notably absent from its lineup.
Type: Liquid | Shade range: 6 | Size: 0.13 oz.
This lipstick doesn’t dry out your lips.
It creates a smooth, soft-focus finish.
There's a bold color range for super-pigmented lips.
We had to touch up slightly after six hours (but not a dealbreaker).
If you're looking for a new perfect nude [shade] 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
The lipstick has a creamy texture that is as comfortable as a gloss, only without the tacky surface.
It has a buildable formula that, with just one application, looks more like a tint, so you can completely customize your look based on your color preferences.
The formula feels super lightweight on the lips and is comfortable enough for all-day wear.
The formula transfers a little, but it’s not enough to need to touch up or fully reapply.
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 matted 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 to be touched up for a complete reapplication.
Type: Cream | Shade range: 15 | Size: 0.13 ounces
You can achieve an even application with one swipe, thanks to the creamy formula and rich pigments.
The lipstick is super lightweight, so it’s a great option for someone who doesn’t usually like wearing lipstick formulas.
It’s designed to support lip hydration in the moment and over time.
While its nourishing formula lasts a while on the lips, the pigment transfers a bit between applications.
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 nourishment upon application and over time, helping to support lip health and keep your pout hydrated. 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
The formula goes on smoothly and is easy to get a precise application with the wand.
It dries super fast on the lips and doesn’t budge throughout the day, so it’s an excellent smudge-proof formula.
It has a sheer formulation, so it’s not as pigmented as we would have liked.
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
The pigment is rich and full-bodied but not super overwhelming, so you can still get a more natural-looking finish.
Despite being a pencil formula, the texture is smooth and easy to apply to the lips.
It’s a highly versatile formula, as you can wear it on its own for a matte finish or easily layer it with a slick of gloss on top for some added shine.
The formula has some transfer, but it’s not enough to need to reapply.
The 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
This lipstick comes in a beautiful variety of shades that reflect light, medium, and dark skin tones.
It has a matte finish that locks in for all-day wear without fading or smudging.
It's somewhat hard to take off, given its long-lasting abilities.
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 and the color payoff is amazing and it only needed 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 oz.
It has a more controlled application so it’s easy to apply for a liquid lipstick.
The lipstick has full-body pigment, but it’s still buildable.
It has a luxe lipstick feel for a budget-friendly price tag.
The packaging says it doesn’t rub off, but we experienced some slight transfer.
For a budget-friendly lipstick, consider our top pick for the best drugstore formula, the 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 lipstick. 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
The formula features a high-gloss finish that feels like a cross between a liquid lipstick and a lip gloss.
It also features an impressive color range with 19 different shades, including pinks, nudes, and reds.
Despite its high gloss finish, the formula remains lightweight on the lips.
It has some slight tackiness, which some might not prefer in a lipstick formula.
The 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
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.
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 drives you crazy, you're probably not going to use it.
And for some application tips, Stapleton says, "Priming is key. 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."
Whether rose pink or vampy plum is your go-to hue, discerning which all day-stain best suits you from sun up to sun down could come down to trial and error.
To find the best long-lasting lipsticks, our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of formulas, narrowing down 27 selections to try at home.
A light, moisturizing lip balm or lip primer makes the best base layer. One tip is to apply your lip balm at the beginning of your skincare routine to let it absorb for a few minutes, then remove any excess just before applying lipstick. It also helps to regularly treat your lips to make them receive the makeup better. "Starting at night for treatment — we often wear moisturizers to bed — 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 using a primer before applying color."
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.
To answer this, Stapleton says you first have to ask, "What does natural mean to you?" He says, "Most folks turn to nudes to get a no-makeup look. But lips tend to have a rosier quality. Start searching in the nude or flesh-toned selections. Swatch a few on your hands to see the undertones. Then start moving into the nudes that offer a little more color."
He says "You'll notice nudes that have more pink, some have more orange, or even purple undertones. Your best friend's version of natural won't necessarily be your natural. [You] gotta just try a few on." You can use your fingertip as a reference for swatch testing because it is closer to the color of your lip than the back of your hand. Alternatively, there are many sites you can try on the lipstick virtually to see what it will look like on your face — such as MAC.
Start with exfoliated and hydrated lips to get long-lasting wear out of your lipstick. 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.
The first thing to note is that matte is a type of finish such as satin or glossy 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. A matte lip is a good choice when you really want your lips to pop. If you are doing a dramatic eye, a neutral satin lip goes well. 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."
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.
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