Best Long-Lasting Lipsticks of 2024: Top 15 Picks, Reviews & Tips
Discover the top 15 long-lasting lipsticks of 2024, tried and tested for all-day wear, comfort, and flawless color pay-off.
Best Long-Lasting Lipsticks of 2024: Our Top 15 Picks
If you’re tired of retouching your lipstick throughout the day, a long-lasting formula can be a game-changer. Cosmopolitan’s beauty editors put the latest lipsticks to the test, evaluating wear time, comfort, pigmentation, and finish. Here are the 15 best long-lasting lipsticks you can buy right now—whether you want a creamy satin, a velvety matte, or a budge-proof liquid formula, there’s something for everyone.
MAC Cream Lipstick
- Finish: Satin
- Shades: 21
- Price: $32 (Amazon), $23 (Nordstrom), $38 (Walmart)
- Pros: Buttery-smooth application, lightweight feel, moisturizing oils (castor, sesame, jojoba), does not settle into fine lines.
- Cons: Sometimes needs layering for full color.
- Editor’s Note: A longtime favorite for its comfort and longevity. Great for dry climates and those with dry lips. One tube lasts a long time thanks to minimal need for reapplication.
Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
- Finish: Matte
- Shades: 35
- Price: Drugstore (varies)
- Pros: Doesn’t move—truly long-wear (up to 16 hours), affordable, non-cakey.
- Cons: Slightly sticky upon application, but dries down.
- Editor’s Note: This is a drugstore hero that rivals high-end options. Stays put through eating and drinking, and can be layered with gloss for shine. It’s a tattoo-like lipstick that requires an oil-based remover to take off.
Makeup by Mario Ultra Suede Lipstick
- Finish: Matte
- Shades: 20
- Price: $26 (Sephora)
- Pros: Instantly blurs fine lines and uneven lip tone, smoothing, four to five hours of wear even with eating and drinking.
- Cons: Slightly drying for some.
- Editor’s Note: From Kim Kardashian’s makeup artist, this suede lipstick offers exceptional nudes for a wide range of skin tones. The oil-based formula glides on smoothly and is perfect for a blurred, velvety matte look.
Features of the Best Long-Lasting Lipsticks
Not all long-lasting lipsticks are created equal. Here’s what sets the best apart from the rest:
- Pigmentation: Highly pigmented formulas deliver rich color with one swipe and need fewer touch-ups.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Oils like castor, sesame, and jojoba help prevent drying and settling into lines.
- Lightweight Feel: The best formulas don’t feel heavy or cakey, even after hours of wear.
- Versatile Finishes: Options range from creamy satin to velvety matte, suede, and liquid transfer-proof.
- Wide Shade Range: The top picks come in a variety of shades to suit all skin tones.
Table: Top Long-Lasting Lipsticks Compared
| Lipstick | Finish | Shades | Price Range | Wear Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC Cream Lipstick | Satin | 21 | $23–$38 | Hours | Moisturizing, lightweight, smooth |
| Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink | Matte | 35 | Drugstore | Up to 16 hours | Transfer-proof, budge-proof, affordable |
| Makeup by Mario Ultra Suede | Matte | 20 | $26 | 4–5 hours | Smoothing, blurring, wide nude range |
How to Make Your Lipstick Last All Day
Even the longest-lasting formulas benefit from a little prep and technique. Here are expert tips for maximizing lipstick wear time:
- Prep Your Lips: Exfoliate with a gentle scrub and hydrate with a balm or lip mask, especially at night.
- Use a Lip Liner: Fill in your lips with a long-wearing liner as a base—this helps anchor your lipstick and prevents feathering.
- Choose the Right Finish: Glossy lipsticks tend to fade faster than matte or liquid formulas.
- Apply in Layers: For bold colors, apply one layer, blot, and apply a second for extra staying power.
- Avoid Oily Foods: Greasy meals can break down even the most long-wearing formulas.
- Blot After Application: Press a tissue between your lips to remove excess product and set the color.
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Other Noteworthy Long-Lasting Lipsticks
Beyond the top three, here are more standout formulas for all-day color:
- Make Up For Ever Artist Liquid Matte Lipstick: Waterproof, non-drying, and award-winning for its staying power.
- BareMinerals Statement Matte Liquid Lipstick: Comfortable, non-drying, with a great shade range.
- The Lip Bar Matte Liquid Lipstick: Moisturizing (thanks to shea butter and jojoba oil), stays put without feeling tight.
- Beauty Bakerie Matte Lip Whip: Truly waterproof—survives meals, drinks, and even swimming.
- Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lipstick: Ultra-budge-proof; requires an oil-based cleanser to remove.
- Lime Crime Matte Velvetines: Deeply pigmented, velvety, and long-lasting (try with lip balm underneath for comfort).
- Deck of Scarlet Matte Velvet Lip Color Kit: Buildable, creamy, and locks on all day.
Long-Lasting Lipstick for Every Occasion
Whether you’re heading to the office, a wedding, or a night out, there’s a long-lasting lipstick for the job. Consider your needs:
- Work and Everyday Wear: Comfortable, moisturizing formulas like MAC Cream Lipstick are ideal for daily use.
- Special Events and Photos: Transfer-proof, liquid mattes like Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink ensure your look stays flawless for hours.
- Hot Weather and Water Activities: Waterproof options like Beauty Bakerie Matte Lip Whip or Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lipstick are unbeatable for vacations, swimming, or outdoor events.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Lipstick Application
- Start with a Clean Canvas: Remove any old lipstick or balm before applying a new formula.
- Use a Lip Brush: For precise application, especially with bold shades, use a brush for clean edges.
- Don’t Overdo the Base: Too much lip balm can make your lipstick slide, so apply sparingly.
- Blot and Powder: After applying, blot with a tissue and dust a tiny amount of translucent powder over your lips for extra hold.
- Set with Setting Spray: A light mist of setting spray can lock in color even longer.
How to Remove Long-Lasting Lipstick
- Oil-Based Cleanser: Use a cleansing oil or micellar water to break down stubborn formulas.
- Gentle Exfoliation: A soft washcloth or lip scrub can help remove any remaining pigment without irritating your lips.
- Hydrate After Removal: Always follow up with a nourishing lip balm to restore moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes a lipstick long-lasting?
A: Long-lasting lipsticks are formulated with high pigment content, polymers, and sometimes silicone to adhere to the lips. Matte and liquid formulas typically last longer than creamy or glossy ones.
Q: How do I prevent long-lasting lipstick from drying out my lips?
A: Look for formulas with moisturizing ingredients like oils or butters, prep your lips with a balm, and avoid matte lipsticks if you have very dry lips. Some brands offer moisturizing matte options.
Q: Can I apply gloss over a long-lasting matte lipstick?
A: Yes! Many long-wear matte lipsticks layer well with gloss for added shine. Just make sure the matte formula is fully dry before applying gloss to avoid smudging.
Q: How do I remove waterproof lipstick?
A: Use an oil-based makeup remover or cleansing oil, as these break down the long-wear pigments effectively. Follow with a gentle lip scrub and moisturizer.
Q: Are there long-lasting lipsticks for sensitive lips?
A: Yes, look for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas. Brands like The Lip Bar and BareMinerals offer comfortable, non-irritating options.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Long-Lasting Lipstick
With so many options available, you can enjoy vibrant, comfortable lip color that stands up to your busy lifestyle. Whether you prefer a creamy, satin finish or an ultra-matte, transfer-proof liquid, the key is to prep your lips, choose the right formula for your needs, and apply it with care. From drugstore gems to luxury favorites, the best long-lasting lipsticks of 2024 combine staying power, comfort, and a stunning shade range—so you can pucker up with confidence, all day long.
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