On the hunt for the perfect lipstick? Whether you’re looking for a bold color or a neutral everyday hue, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to enhancing the look and texture of your lips. With all the different finishes and colors to choose from, finding the right products can feel overwhelming. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the different types of lipstick available, along with tips for when and where to wear them.
Sheer Lipstick
If you like to play it safe, you can’t go wrong with a sheer lipstick. This foolproof formula works well anytime, anywhere—add a swipe of color before heading to the farmer’s market or going into the office. Bonus: it contains more oils than other finishes, so it won’t cling to flaky lips or dry them out. If you decide to punch up a barely there look with a stronger finish, a sheer lipstick can be layered with other lip products. Because you’ll have to reapply it often, look for a brand with moisturizing properties to keep your pout supple and well hydrated.
Creamy Lipstick
For buttery-rich color that glides right on and feels comfortable all day long, add a creamy lipstick to your makeup bag. With more wax content than other comparable formulas, this type of lipstick is perfect for dehydrated lips that have been battered by winter weather or other harsh conditions. The soft, subtle, full-coverage look works as well for nighttime as it does during the day, adding a timeless touch of glamour to whatever you’re wearing while working hard to keep your pout looking and feeling healthy.
Matte Lipstick
If you want a product with serious staying power, matte lipstick is your best option. Its striking, opaque finish is all you need to create a polished look. The upside of this lipstick formula is you won’t have to worry about it smudging or spreading. The downside is that it can emphasize chapped lips while drying them out even more, so be sure to include regular exfoliation and moisturizing in your lip care routine.
Stain Lipstick
For effortless, long-lasting color, go for a stain lipstick. This type temporarily dyes your lips (but not your teeth or anything it comes into contact with, like your drinking glass). It’s also versatile enough to layer with gloss if you want more shine. You can even use it as a blush to give your cheeks a flush of color.
When you know you’ll be running low on packing space or time for touch-ups, a lip stain can carry you from business meetings to cocktail parties.
Glossy Lipstick
Seeking an ultraglamorous look? A glossy lipstick is the product to pick. High in shine and luminosity, this lipstick type will add dimension and volume to the shape of your mouth while drawing more attention to already voluptuous lips. Its hydrating formula, often enriched with vitamins and antioxidants, can help battle chapped lips by keeping them feeling moisturized and looking smooth.
Glossy lipsticks are a great choice for formal occasions or evening outings, though you should be prepared to reapply often if you’re eating or drinking. Their semisheer finish also makes them a great choice for everyday wear if you prefer a more natural look. For a DIY version, layer your favorite lipstick underneath a clear lip gloss.
Frosted Lipstick
Today’s frosted lipsticks are not only more sophisticated than their ’90s predecessors, they’re also much more wearable. They’re understated enough to be worn on their own, but they can also be used on top of another color to lend a subtle hint of shimmer or dabbed just in the middle of the lips to add volume, sparkle and dimension.
The pearlized metallic finish of a frosted lipstick makes it the perfect statement accessory for a party, gala or special event. And with so many colors and shades available, there are great options for everyday wear too. Make sure to moisturize your pout before application, as these products can be drying.
Tinted Lipstick
If you’d prefer a hint of color, opt for a tinted lipstick. Available in water, oil, gel and cream formulations, tinted lipstick is perfect for an easy, low-maintenance look that can also be layered to achieve more drama. A tinted lipstick is an excellent choice in the spring or summer, giving you a dewy, glossy look when ordinary lipsticks might feel too heavy or intense.
Whether you’re looking to brighten your smile, make a good first impression or invest in a multipurpose makeup product, a great lipstick can help with all that—and more.
