There are so many factors to consider when choosing a new lip product. Maybe you want a sophisticated matte lip or perhaps something a bit more playful, like a high-shine glossy lip. There are traditional lipsticks, liquid lips, glosses, crayons, and so many more ways to incorporate color into your look. Finding the perfect finish, shade, and formula can be a difficult task, but it’s a lot less stressful when you get to choose from incredibly affordable choices, like these 10 drugstore products for under 10 dollars.
Over the past few years more and more drugstore brands have developed lip products that deliver long-lasting color, making it easier for us to try new products without the guilt that comes with splurging on makeup. Our top ten picks cover a variety of finishes and types of lipsticks, and we promise that you’ll be happy with the results from each and every one of them.
Over the last few years, Wet n Wild has transformed from just another inexpensive option at the drugstore to one of the most sought-after brands in the business. Their popularity is in part due to their Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick, which comes in a variety of long-lasting, vivid colors. Plus, it’s not drying, which can be the downfall of many other liquid lip brands.
NYX was not messing around when they created their Soft Matte Lip Cream, which is satisfyingly creamy until it dries down to – you guessed it- a soft matte. Unlike some liquid lipsticks that dry down too fast, this one gives you enough time to work with it and create the coverage that you want. There are plenty of colors to choose from, and at only $6.50 it’s hard to pick just one, but this matte deep violet shade called Transylvania is perfect for a dark wintery lip.
If the winter weather is giving you dry, chapped lips, then this hydrating formula from Maybelline is a great choice. The formula includes reflective oils to provide hydration and shine, and the finish is uniquely glossy with intense color payoff.
It’s fun to switch things up during the holiday season, and this holographic lip shine from Essence is the perfect way to incorporate some shimmer into your look without going overboard. Wear it by itself on its own or over a complementary color for an exciting twist.
You’ve probably heard of Pixi’s infamous Glow Tonic, but what about their equally impressive Shea Butter Lip Balm? In addition to shea butter, the lightweight formula contains vitamin E to further protect your lips. You can apply one layer for a subtle tint, or a couple more for a more noticeable color.
Creamy and soft with insane color payoff- these are just a few perks of this $5.99 Milani lipstick. The formula is nourishing and will last for hours, making it a great choice for a long workday or a night out. With 40 shades to choose from you’ll have no problem picking one…or five.
Colourpop is another ah-maz-ing brand with an impressive variety of lip products for under 10 bucks. If you love a glossy finish, look no further than their Ultra Glossy Lip. These are perfect for low maintenance days, when you want a little something but don’t want to put in the effort of a tricky matte liquid lip. Just a quick swipe and your look is complete.
Extremely pigmented and velvety smooth, the BH Cosmetics Liquid Linen Lipsticks are another great option for liquid lip lovers. They’re currently on sale at just $3.50, making them the ideal choice for anyone on a budget. With 12 stunning shades, you’ll be tempted to try each one, guilt-free of course!
If your purse is filled with 10 different lip products – we need to be prepared for all occasions, after all – then you’ll be relieved to hear that e.l.f. has a dual-ended lipstick that allows you to easily transition from day to night. The affordable brand offers four duo-lipsticks with 8 essential lip colors, but we love The Best Berries, a creamy mauve for a daytime look and a deep berry for the evening.
Burt’s Bees may be known for their skincare products and beeswax lip balms, but don’t sleep on their makeup line. Their wide variety of lip products are inexpensive, but more importantly, they’re made with nourishing ingredients that you can feel good about. Their best-selling Satin Lipstick uses raspberry seed oil to moisturize your lips and comes in 18 beautiful shades.
by Clare Saxton
cover photo: Irving Penn, Bee on Lips, New York (1995)
