If you’ve scrolled through TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed the latest beauty obsession taking over: lip stains.
Loved for their ability to give you long-lasting colour without budging (no matter what), lip stains give that natural look while being completely smudge-proof—so you can skip the constant touch-ups.
Plus, they’re lightweight, comfortable to wear, and perfect for getting that effortless, low-maintenance look in just a few swipes.
Naturally, whenever a new beauty trend goes viral, it’s only a matter of time before I give in and jump on the craze.
On my hunt for the best lip stain, I discovered a few that have become staples in my daily routine—plus some others I can’t wait to try once I run out.
The best lip stains in Australia
01
Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Cheek & Lip Tint
from $42 at Sephora
I’d heard great things about Benefit’s lip stain, so when I spotted it at Sephora, I knew I had to grab it. As someone fairly new to lip stains, I loved how natural this one looked and how easily I could build up the colour if needed. Plus, the shade is super flattering and pairs perfectly with my go-to lip liner.
Sizes: 6ml and 10ml
Key features:
- Lip and cheek tint
- Long-wearing
- Natural finish
Also available at:
- $42 from Myer
- $42 from Adore Beauty
- $42 from The Iconic
02
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil
$40 at Sephora
This tinted lip oil gave me the most comfortable, buildable colour and shine the moment I applied it. My lips felt smooth, hydrated, and nourished all day—without the stickiness that some glosses have. The shade Delight is my top pick.
Colours: Affection, Delight, Happy, Honesty, Hope, Joy, Serenity and Wonder
Key features:
- High shine and matte finish
- Gel-to-oil formula
03
Wonderskin Makeup Wonder Blading Lip Stain Masque
from $46.72 at Amazon
It’s the viral lip stain that is just everywhere, with Wonderskin’s peel-off lip stain instantly recognisable thanks to its metallic purple/blue colouring. Reviewers rave about its vibrant colour pigment, easy application, and impressive long-lasting wear.
Colours: Whimsical, Adore, Darling, Glamourous, Glamorous Classic Red, Romance and XOXO
Key features:
- Vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free
- Infused with nourishing ingredients
04
Covergirl Outlast All-Day Moisturising Lip Colour
$19.99 at Chemist Warehouse
One of the more affordable options, the Covergirl Outlast All-Day Moisturising Lip Colour has an advanced formula that delivers resilient, brilliant coverage, colour, and shine—lasting up to 24 hours. And the best part? It’s all available for under $20.
Key features:
- Nourishing topcoat
- Transfer-resistant
Also available at:
05
e.l.f Glossy Lip Stain
$12 at Adore Beauty
Another super affordable pick, the e.l.f. Cosmetics Glossy Lip Stain gives you the best of both worlds, combining the vibrant colour payoff of a stain with the lustrous shine of a gloss.
Colours: Power Mauves, Cinnamon Dreamz, Spicy Sienna and Pinkies Up
Key features:
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Dual-action formula
- Sheer finish
Also available at:
- $16 from Priceline
06
Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain
$43 at Sephora
“Makeup is all about play, and when I was developing this lip stain, I had so much fun. This product just hits different. You get that sexy, wet-look shine and your lips feel super hydrated. But…this tint!!” – from miss Bad Gal Riri herself.
Colours: Berry Banger, Mai Type, Strawberry Sangria and Zesty Bestie
Key features:
- High shine finish
- Oil-in-water innovation with squalene
Do lip stains actually work?
Yes, lip stains do work! They provide long-lasting colour to your lips that’s lightweight and buildable for a more natural look.
Unlike traditional lipsticks, lip stains don’t smudge or transfer easily, making them perfect for all-day wear.
What is the difference between a lip stain and lipstick?
Lip stains offer a lightweight, natural colour with a matte or satin finish, providing long-lasting wear without smudging or transferring. They’re buildable but less moisturising than lipsticks.
On the other hand, lipsticks deliver rich, opaque colour with various finishes like matte or glossy, and are often creamier, offering more moisture but requiring more frequent touch-ups as they tend to transfer more easily.
How long does a lip tint stain last?
A lip tint stain can last anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the formula and how much you eat or drink throughout the day.
Most lip tints are designed to be long-wearing, providing a subtle, natural colour that stays put. However, if you’re eating or drinking heavily, you may need to reapply it after a few hours.
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