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Confession: I've tried a *lot* of lip products in my life—the embarrassing number of lippies in my makeup drawer is a testament to this, LOL. From classic bullet lipsticks, super-drying liquid lippies, moisturizing lip tints, and high-shine lip glosses, trust that I've had at least a shade or two in each iteration.
READ MORE: To All The Red Lipsticks I've Loved Before And *The One* I Still Am Crazy About
But if I'm being honest, lip stains are the only thing I keep reaching for these days, and the only lip product I keep on me at all times. Their major staying power is key for me because it means I don't have to keep reapplying throughout the day—a major win for the busy girlies! The hydration it offers is also a big plus for me, as I constantly suffer from dry lips.
If you're interested in *upgrading* your lip game, I gathered the 411 on everything you need to know about lip stains, from what they actually are, how they differ from lip tints, and their pros and cons. Plus, a shopping list at the end, ofc! Keep on reading to learn more:
Everything You Need to Know About Lip Stains
What is a lip stain?
Unlike lipsticks that merely coat your lips with pigment, a lip stain does exactly what its name implies: it stains the top layer of your lips, therefore making it last longer. It applies glossy and dewy on your pout and eventually dries down to a natural-looking stain—perfect for that just-bitten look.
What's the difference between a lip stain and a lip tint?
Okay, we know their names sound similar, and they kinda do the same thing in that they deposit tinges of pigment onto your lips. But, trust us when we say that these two lip products are different. Here's a handy explainer of all the differences between them:
- Lip stain: True to its name, lip stains leave your pout with a gorgeous, matte wash of color even after wiping off the initial application.
- Lip tint: For fans of a more natural look, this one is for you. Lip tints are often loaded with hydrating emollients that deposit minimal color on your puckers.
Lip Stains: Pros and Cons
Just like any other product, lip stains also have their own pros and cons. Keep the following in mind if you're thinking of buying your first one:
Pros:
- It leaves a lasting stain on the lips.
- It's more low-maintenance than other lip products. Say bye to reapplying every few hours!
Cons:
- Its formula is less forgiving. Once it's on, it's on!
- It can emphasize your lips' texture, so make sure to prep your puckers beforehand!
Best Lip Stains to Use
1. Lucky Beauty Dewy Lip Stain
If your lips are on the drier side, you'll love the Luck Beauty Dewy Lip Stain. Described as "a hydrating lip tint," it promises to leave a soft wash of color on your pout sans the sticky feeling.
Lucky Beauty Dewy Lip Stain, P299, Shopee and Lazada
2. Detail Cosmetics Glass Stain
These glossy stains from Detail Cosmetics are enriched with a blend of Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil that will keep your lips soft and hydrated. It also comes in 12 (!) shades, from milky pinks, berry reds, and deep mauves.
Detail Cosmetics Glass Stain, P160, Shopee and Lazada
3. Careline Stain With Me
If you need a more affordable option, Careline's Stain With Me lippie is a worthy addition to your kikay kit.
Careline Stain With Me, P143, Shopee and Lazada
4. Romand Juicy Lasting Tint
Trust us when we say that Korean beauty companies have ~*perfected*~ the lip stain—from its formula and finish to the variety of shades. The Romand Juicy Lasting Tint is the internet's go-to for a reason. Its highly pigmented formula will make you want to collect all the shades!
Romand Juicy Lasting Tint, P374, Shopee and Lazada
5. GRWM Cosmetics Tinted Lip Glaze
If you want something that you can apply on your lips at the start of the day without worrying about its longevity, get yourself one of GRWM Cosmetics' Tinted Lip Glazes. Not only is it pigmented—Pinays have reported that it can cover even dual-toned lips!—but it also promises to be smudge-resistant and long-lasting.
GRWM Cosmetics Tinted Lip Glaze, P249, Shopee and Lazada
6. Barenbliss Peach Makes Perfect Lip Tint
First of all, how cute is the name of this lippie?! Anyway, this product has a milky gel texture that can hydrate even the driest of lips, and it also leaves a stain that can last you a good few hours. We want all the shades, please!
Barenbliss Peach Makes Perfect Lip Tint, P289, Shopee and Lazada
7. Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Tint
Benetint is the OG and a favorite of makeup artists for a reason—it's a rose-tinted lippie that leaves a stain on your pout that won't budge no matter what. It's been around since the 1970s, and we don't think it'll be leaving our kits anytime soon!
Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Tint, P1,590, Lazada
8. Sunnies Face Juicetint
You get the best of both worlds with the Juicetint. It's a lip gloss and stain in one—it goes on glossy and eventually dries down to a soft, vibrant hue. Its triple oil blend also ensures an even wash of color in every application.
Sunnies Face Juicetint, P445, Shopee and Lazada
Links are updated regularly and as much as possible but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.
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