When it comes to lip makeup, the world, aka the drugstore lip section, is your oyster. From matte lipsticks to tinted lip balms to shimmery glosses, there is a lippie with your desired level of coverage, color preference and finish. One category of lippies that many overlook is the lip stain and lip tint. Unlike lipstick which provides full-coverage color, lip stains and lip tints are lightweight, typically sheer in color, and relatively easy to wear and reapply throughout the day.
If you’re ready to add these underrated lip products to your makeup bag, read on to learn more about the difference between lip tints and lip stains, plus the best formulas to add to cart from the drugstore and how to use lip stains and tints for a lightweight splash of color.
These two lippies are similar in look, but they do have some major differences in terms of wear. A lip tint adds a wash of color to your pout that you can easily wipe away. Lip tints are often lightweight and sheer in coverage. A lip stain has a lightweight texture that absorbs into the skin to temporarily stains your lips and lasts for much longer. It also feels weightless on the lips but if you try to wipe it off with a tissue, you won’t have much luck.
On the hunt for a tried-and-true drugstore lip stain and lip tint? Here are two options for your makeup bag.
This ultra-lightweight, long-lasting lip stain formula delivers the high-shine color of a lip gloss with the bold color and non-sticky feel of a liquid lipstick. There are 12 beautiful shades to choose from, so you can pick your signature hue from a selection of bold reds, flattering nudes and pinks, and statement berries and purples. The unique precision applicator shapes and lines lips for a precise and perfectly applied lip that doesn’t fade, feather or smudge throughout the day.
This lip tint (that doubles as a liquid blush) provides a sheer wash of dewy color that brings instant hydration to the lips and cheeks. In six shades like berry pink to warm orange, it gives an effortless, post-popsicle lip look that feels so comfortable and light, it’s easy to forget you have anything on.
Ready to apply your lip stain or lip tint like a pro? Follow these steps, below.
Before you apply your lip stain or tint, you’ll want to make sure your lips are soft and smooth for an even application. Use a lip scrub to buff away any flakes or rough texture on your lips. If you don’t have a lip scrub, use the corner of a damp towel or washcloth to lightly exfoliate your pout. The damp terry texture does an effective job of making your lips smooth without causing irritation.
After exfoliating, your lips are likely begging for hydration so it’s important to restore that with a lip balm. Swipe on a light layer of moisturizing lip balm and give it five minutes or so to absorb. Waiting is important because if you apply a lip tint or lip stain right after lip balm, it’s not going to last very long.
Now that you’re done with the prep work, it’s time to apply your lip stain or tint. If you want a more defined lip look, start with a lip liner before you apply your lip stain or lip tint. If you want a post-popsicle lip look, forgo the liner and just use the lip stain or tint for a more natural, laid-back look.
Start your application in the center of your upper lip and work from the middle to the outer edges of your lips, following the contour of your mouth. Then, glide the applicator across the bottom lip and fill it in. Feel free to use your fingers during application for smooth, even coverage.
When you want to take your lip stain or tint off at the end of the night, use an oil-based makeup remover or one meant for waterproof makeup, like the L’Oréal Paris Ideal All Skin Types Makeup Removing Towelettes. Gently glide the wipe over your lips for easy removal.
Next: The Best Nude-Pink Lipstick Picks for Every Skin Tone and Undertone
Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Digital Tech: Erik Dalzen, Photo Assistant: Sam Kang, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Mirna Jose, Hair Assistant: Keila Rivera, Wardrobe Stylist: Alexis Badiyi, Wardrobe Assistant: Jazmine Alzado, Model: Zlata Semenko
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