Why Lip Stains Are the New Must-Have
No make-up bag would be complete without a trusty lipstick, but we can all agree that its tendency to crease, crumble, and smear can be quite frustrating. While lipstick formulas have significantly improved over the years, providing flawless, long-lasting results, beauty enthusiasts are now shifting their focus to lip stains. With their precision, mess-free application, and impressive staying power, it’s no wonder lip stains are trending.
Google searches for lip stains skyrocketed by 5,000% in February and March, and the hashtag #lipstain has amassed over 173.6k posts on TikTok, signaling a major beauty moment. Influencers and beauty content creators like Bambi Does Beauty, Soph Does Life, MUA Katie Jane Hughes, and US mega-influencer Alix Earle have all shared their favorite lip stains on social media, contributing to the rising popularity.
Experimentation is key! Katie Jane Hughes recently showcased the viral lip stain product Sacheu, capturing the attention of many. Despite the intimidating concept of staining your lips, these lightweight, pigmented formulas deliver vibrant color that lasts for hours without being overly difficult to remove. With fans like Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, and Love Island star Elma Pazar, it’s time for Team Fabulous to put these products to the test. Here are some of the hottest new lip stains on the market along with our honest thoughts:
Pixi LipBlush, £14
This lip stain has become a new essential for Mia.
Beauty Writer Mia Lyndon says: “There’s something oddly satisfying about applying color to your lips with a pen. Although it looks and feels a bit like a Sharpie, this lip stain is nothing short of genius and has quickly become my handbag staple. The chunky felt-tip-style applicator allows for quick, easy, and mess-free application, although it may lack in precision. Nevertheless, it delivers a stunning, pigmented fuchsia hue that doesn’t settle into fine lines. While it leaves a sheer finish, I’d recommend layering a lip oil on top for added comfort, as the formula can feel a tad tight and drying.”
Tropic Lip Stain, £16
This lip stain offers a delightful, cushioned feel.
Beauty Writer Mia Lyndon says: “This formula perfectly balances a long-lasting stain with a comfortable gloss, providing vibrant color without the weight or dryness. The toasted peach shade, one of the brand’s recent limited-edition releases, boasts a warm, spiced appearance. While you may need several layers for a bold look, it’s easy to build up without cracking or creasing. The soft, cushioned texture feels lightweight and hydrating on the lips, accompanied by a pleasant, subtle fragrance. Although it’s not the longest-lasting stain, layering can help enhance its staying power.”
Wonderskin Wonder Blading Lip Stain Masque, £18
Bella loved the luscious plum shade.
Beauty Intern Bella Tofighy says: “The Wonderskin lip stain has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Its lightweight formula glides effortlessly onto the lips and dries weightlessly, making it feel as if you’re wearing nothing at all while still providing vibrant color that lasts throughout the day. Initially, it appears as a somewhat intimidating iridescent purple, but it dries down to a lovely plum shade that’s perfect for a soft glam look, day or night. The best part? It maintains its pigmentation without the need for constant touch-ups, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about color fading.”
Rimmel London Thrill Seeker Lip Ink Pen, £7.99
This budget-friendly lip ink is a favorite of Beauty Editor Tara Ledden.
Beauty Editor Tara Ledden says: “When this product first arrived at my desk, I didn’t think much of it, as it reminded me of the lip stains I used during my teenage years. I tossed it into a pot with my other pens, and a week later, I realized I had reached for it daily before meetings to achieve a polished look. The application feels akin to drawing with a felt tip; it provides a smooth flow of pigment that makes the stain foolproof. Once applied, there’s no stickiness or heavy residue, and the color lasts for hours, maintaining its original hue even after meals. I appreciate the slimline nib, which allows precision when tracing my lip line, and the ability to tilt the pen to fill in the bulk of my lips. I found the darker shades to be more pigmented, which can be intimidating, but there’s ample time to blend them out with your fingertip before they dry.”
Sacheu Stayn Lip Liner, £12
This viral peel-off lip stain can be tricky to master.
Beauty Editor Tara Ledden says: “After seeing this liner trend on TikTok, I thought I’d have no trouble applying it, but it turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated! It has a very dark initial color, and the thick consistency can make it difficult to achieve a natural-looking line, especially with an unsteady hand. The doe-foot applicator complicates matters, so I found it easier to apply to my entire lip. Waiting 10-15 minutes for it to dry before you can leave the house is inconvenient. Removing the peel-off layer can also be a hassle, requiring some trial and error. However, once you get it right, the lifting process is quite satisfying—similar to peeling PVA glue off your hand. Unfortunately, it left flecks behind that I had to pick off individually. While the stain lasted only a few hours and left my lips feeling tight and dry, I can understand the hype but I doubt I’ll be using it again.”
How To Save Money On Beauty Buys
If your budget is tighter than ever and you’re seeking ways to save on your beauty routine, consider exploring beauty dupes! Here are five recommended products that are nearly identical to their high-end counterparts but come at a fraction of the price:
- FACE BASE: If you can’t splurge on Charlotte Tilbury’s £52 Magic Cream, check out a fantastic dupe for just £5.49 from Superdrug.
- TONE IT UP: If Drunk Elephant’s £62 Protini Cream is out of reach, a new dupe available at Home Bargains is worth checking out.
- TINTING IT: Fenty’s revolutionary skin tint is priced at £29, but an affordable alternative from a popular supermarket might just do the trick.
- GET COVERED: Tarte’s concealer retails at £29, while a new Primark dupe is a steal at only £3.50.
- SPRAY YAY: For those wanting to stay fresh without breaking the bank, Aldi’s new dupes for Prada and Chloe perfumes come at a fraction of the cost.