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This $40 lip stain lasts me all day, but I almost wish it didn’t

Pucker up.
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If you’ve scrolled through TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed the latest beauty obsession taking over: lip stains.

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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.

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The best lip stains in Australia

01

Huda Beauty Lip Contour Stain

$45 at Sephora

Finding the perfect lip stain shade can be surprisingly hard, but that’s exactly why Huda Beauty’s Lip Contour range stood out to me. Available in eight ultra-pigmented shades (including four dreamy brown-to-nude tones), this lineup has quickly earned a spot in my beauty kit. The formula? Rich, long-lasting, and seriously flattering.

The shade Toasty Brown is my personal favourite because the felt tip gives you that perfect contour for your pout.

Colours: Warm Brown, Toasty Brown, Soft Nude, Rosewood, Rich Brown, Cinnamon, Cherry Red and Baby Pink

Key features:

  • Dual-sided felt-tip liner
  • Ultra-pigmented
  • Infused with moisturising Argan Oil

02

KIMUSE Peel Off Lip Liner Stain

$19.99 at Amazon

If you want a lip stain that actually lasts all day, this is the one. It’s so pigmented and long-wearing that I almost wish it faded faster, only because I picked the wrong shade. I initially went for Pink Cloud, which turned out a little too pink for my liking, so I opted for the shade Black Cherry next and now I wear it almost every day.

Colours: Black Cherry, Chocolates, Pink Cloud, Deep Berry, Strawberry Nude and Nude Pinky

Key features:

  • Peel-off formula
  • Rich, long-lasting colour
  • Waterproof and smudge-proof
Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Cheek & Lip Tint

03

Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Cheek & Lip Tint

from $45 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
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil

04

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil

$43 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
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Other highly-rated lip stains

Wonderskin Makeup Wonder Blading Lip Stain Masque

05

Wonderskin Makeup Wonder Blading Lip Stain Masque

$38 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, Neon Rose, Glamourous, Romance and XOXO

Key features:

  • Vegan, cruelty-free and gluten-free
  • Infused with nourishing ingredients

06

NYX Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie Liner Stain

$21.99 at Adore Beauty

One of the more affordable options, the NYX Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie Liner Stain has an advanced formula that delivers a soft-matte finish that won’t budge. And the best part? It’s available for just $22.

Key features:

  • Long-wearing stain
  • Precision liner tip
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.

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