The 9 Drugstore Lipsticks We Can’t Stop Raving About (They’re All $11 or Less!)
The perfect lipstick can cost upwards of $40 — but it doesn’t have to.
In fact, many influencers and makeup artists swear by drugstore lipsticks, which may cost as little as a cup of coffee. (Plus, for that price, you don’t have to limit yourself to one color.)
Note: Prices are accurate as of Aug. 6, 2020.
9 of the Best Drugstore Mascaras (That Cost Less Than $11!)
Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick
Cost: $9.79 at CVS
Best for: A moisturizing lipstick
Why we like it: Made with castor oil, moringa extracts and raspberry seed oil, this lipstick keeps your lips soft and nourished for eight hours, says Jessica Rose, beauty blogger and founder of Clean Beauty Gals in Vancouver.
The lipstick is available in 18 shades (Rose owns seven!), and it provides intense color that suits many skin tones.
Cruelty free? Yes
L.A. Colors Cream Lipstick
Cost: $5.42 at Walmart
Best for: A comfortable matte formula that’s also long lasting
Why we like it: Host and beauty influencer Kay Elle is obsessed with LA Colors’ matte lipsticks. “They offer a wide range of colors that are richly pigmented and don’t dry your lips out,” she says.
Plus, it will last all day.
Cruelty free? Yes
Maybelline SuperStay 24 Liquid Lipstick
Cost: $10.99 at Ulta
Best for: Making sure you’re ready for the camera
Why we like it: This line includes 24 colors, some with satin and some matte. “I do a lot of videos for Facebook and YouTube, and the ones with a little bit of shimmer always look good on camera,” says Nancy Basile, a plus-size blogger in Lancaster, Penn.
Basile also loves that the lipstick doesn’t come off all day. “And it never dries my lips because it includes a moistening stick on the opposite end,” she says.
Cruelty free? No
E.l.f. Cosmetics Moisturizing Lipstick
Cost: $4 at e.l.f. cosmetics
Best for: Dry lips
Why we like it: One of the major features of this drugstore lipstick is the hidden compartment on the bottom of the tube, which contains a lip balm that matches the color of your lipstick.
“Usually, to apply a light layer, I would line my lips with the lipstick and then use my fingers to dab in the chapstick,” says Madison Battinelli, who offers makeup recommendations and tutorials via TikTok. “The product will mix to create a super moisturizing and lightweight lip color.”
Cruelty free? Yes
L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick
Cost: $5.99 at Target
Best for: Intense color
Why we like it: This lipstick feels hydrating and has incredible color payoff, explains Maria Ortega, a New York-based makeup artist.
The creamy texture allows for easy application, and you can adjust how soft or intense you want the look to be.
Cruelty free? No
Rimmel Lasting Finish Lip Color
Cost: $4.99 at Target
Best for: Date night
Why we like it: The creamy formula makes lips feel moisturized. Plus, they’re highly pigmented, and will last all day — even through meals and kissing, says Jarry Lee, a beauty influencer and model based in New York.
Cruelty free? No
Wet n Wild Mega Last Stained Glass Lip Gloss
Cost: $5.99 at CVS
Best for: Lip gloss lovers
Why we like it: It’s a stain that looks like a gloss but doesn’t transfer, says Margina Dennis, a makeup artist. Designed to last for eight hours of wear, this is available in six colors.
Cruelty free? Yes
Physician’s Formula The Healthy Lip Velvet Liquid Lipstick
Cost: $5.52 at Physician’s Formula
Best for: Sensitive skin
Why we like it: The ingredients nourish and moisturize your lips – and it feels lightweight, despite being full coverage, says Jordan, a cosmetologist specializing in makeup and hair.
“It is cruelty free, hypoallergenic, gluten-free and dermatologist approved, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin,” Jordan says.
Cruelty free? Yes
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Hot Lacquer Lip Gloss
Cost: $8.49 at Target
Best for: Glossy lips that aren’t glittery
Why we like it: It’s packaged like lip gloss but packs a lot of color and shine with no glitter, says Tricia Walters, aka Tricia Brow Whisperer, a mobile makeup artist based in Toronto.
“But it’s equally as flattering as simple gloss: just by color choice, you get a whole new look,” Walters says.
Also, Walters says it never feels sticky and doesn’t get blotchy.
Cruelty free? No
Danielle Braff is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder.
