Lip stains are having a major renaissance. Once seen as a niche K-beauty import or backstage staple, they’re now front and center—dominating makeup bags, TikTok trends, and new product launches alike.
What’s behind the obsession? Think lasting pigment, effortless application, and color that clings without ever feeling cakey. In fact, search interest for lip stains has surged 94% year-over-year, with 1.4 million monthly Google searches and over 158,000 TikTok videos tagged under the trend. Whether you're after a barely-there tint or a bold, glossy swipe, there's a lip stain for every aesthetic.
We tried and tested 10 of the most buzzed-about formulas—from drugstore steals to peel-off innovators. Here's how they compare.
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From Gen Z’s obsession with “clean girl” beauty to the modern demand for makeup that moves with you, lip stains hit the sweet spot: wearable, comfortable, and low-maintenance. New formulations include skincare ingredients (hello, hyaluronic acid), multitasking benefits (cheek tint, anyone?), and finishes ranging from matte to glassy-gloss.
Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain in “Mai Type”
What We Like: Glossy feel, sheer yet buildable color, non-sticky hydration
What to Consider: Limited shade range for deeper tones
Best For: Low-maintenance, glowy looks
NYX Lip IV Hydrating Glossy Lip Stain in “Hydra Honey”
What We Like: High-shine payoff with nourishing oils, under $10
What to Consider: Can transfer easily, more gloss than stain
Best For: Dewy, natural makeup lovers
Etude House Dear Darling Water Gel Tint in “Cherry Red”
What We Like: Super affordable, juicy color, lightweight formula
What to Consider: Slightly sticky on dry lips
Best For: Beginners or K-beauty fans
Wonderskin Wonder Blading Lip Stain Kit in “Lovely”
What We Like: Customizable intensity, true stain payoff, long-wear
What to Consider: 2-step process can be time-consuming
Best For: All-day wear without reapplying
Sacheu Beauty Peel-Off Lip Liner in “Power”
What We Like: Clean finish, perfect for lining or layering
What to Consider: Only available online
Best For: Bold lips, smudge-proof wear
Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint in “Celeb Deep Rose”
What We Like: Super pigmented, feels weightless, cult-favorite
What to Consider: Matte finish may dry lips
Best For: Statement lips on a budget
What We Like: Lip balm-meets-lipstick texture, subtle stain
What to Consider: More balm than tint for some users
Best For: Everyday, no-makeup makeup looks
Benefit Benetint Rose-Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain
What We Like: Iconic for a reason, versatile and natural finish
What to Consider: Watery texture needs quick blending
Best For: Classic, sheer color lovers
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil in “Affection”
What We Like: Hybrid formula, soft color that sets
What to Consider: Slightly sticky at first
Best For: Fans of Selena and adaptive makeup
Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink Lip Color in “Wicked”
What We Like: Full pigment + gloss + stain, under $12
What to Consider: Needs shake before use
Best For: Bold glam with drugstore pricing
