The ideal lipstick can easily top $40 — but it doesn’t have to.
In reality, many influencers and professional makeup artists rely on affordable drugstore lipsticks, some costing as little as a morning latte. (And at that price, you don’t have to stick with just one shade.)
Note: Prices were checked on Aug. 6, 2020.
9 Great Drugstore Lipsticks (Most Under $11!)
Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick
Cost:$9.79 at CVS
Best for:A hydrating lipstick
Why we like it:Formulated with castor oil, moringa extract and raspberry seed oil, this lipstick keeps lips soft and conditioned for up to eight hours, says Jessica Rose, a beauty blogger and founder of Clean Beauty Gals in Vancouver.
The range includes 18 hues (Rose owns seven!), and it delivers bold pigment that flatters a variety of skin tones.
Cruelty free?Yes
L.A. Colors Cream Lipstick
Cost:$5.42 at Walmart
Best for:A cozy matte formula that endures
Why we like it:Host and beauty influencer Kay Elle can’t get enough of LA Colors’ matte lipsticks. “They come in tons of shades, are richly pigmented and don’t parch your lips,” she says.
Plus, the wear time is impressive.
Cruelty free?Yes
Maybelline SuperStay 24 Liquid Lipstick
Cost:$10.99 at Ulta
Best for:Being camera-ready
Why we like it:This collection has 24 shades, offered in both satin and matte finishes. “I film a lot of content for social media, and the slightly shimmery shades always translate well on camera,” says Nancy Basile, a plus-size blogger in Lancaster, Penn.
Basile also appreciates that the color stays put all day. “It never dries my lips out because it includes a moisturizing stick on the other end,” she adds.
Cruelty free?No
E.l.f. Cosmetics Moisturizing Lipstick
Cost:$4 at e.l.f. cosmetics
Best for:Very dry lips
Why we like it:A standout feature of this budget lipstick is the hidden compartment in the tube’s base that holds a lip balm matching your lipstick shade.
“Usually, I’d line my lips and then tap in chapstick with my fingertips for a sheer layer,” says Madison Battinelli, who shares makeup tips on TikTok. “The two products blend to give a super-hydrating, lightweight tint.”
Cruelty free?Yes
L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick
Cost:$5.99 at Target
Best for:Rich, saturated color
Why we like it:This lipstick has a nourishing feel and excellent pigment payoff, says Maria Ortega, a makeup artist based in New York.
The creamy formula glides on smoothly, letting you control whether the finish is soft or bold.
Cruelty free?No
Rimmel Lasting Finish Lip Color
Cost:$4.99 at Target
Best for:A romantic night out
Why we like it:The lush texture keeps lips hydrated. They’re highly pigmented, too, and hold up through a whole day — even through meals and smooches, says Jarry Lee, a beauty influencer and model in New York.
Cruelty free?No
Wet n Wild Mega Last Stained Glass Lip Gloss
Cost:$5.99 at CVS
Best for:Gloss aficionados
Why we like it:It’s a stain with the look of gloss that doesn’t transfer, says Margina Dennis, a makeup artist. Built to last up to eight hours, it comes in six shades.
Cruelty free?Yes
Physician’s Formula The Healthy Lip Velvet Liquid Lipstick
Cost:$5.52 at Physician’s Formula
Best for:Sensitive skin types
Why we like it:The formula feeds and hydrates lips — yet wears lightweight while delivering full coverage, says Jordan, a cosmetologist who focuses on makeup and hair.
“It’s cruelty free, hypoallergenic, gluten-free and dermatologist tested, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin,” Jordan notes.
Cruelty free?Yes
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Hot Lacquer Lip Gloss
Cost:$8.49 at Target
Best for:Shiny lips without sparkle
Why we like it:It looks like a gloss but delivers intense color and shine without glitter, says Tricia Walters, also known as Tricia Brow Whisperer, a mobile makeup artist in Toronto.
“It works like a regular gloss, but swapping shade instantly changes the vibe,” Walters says.
She also notes it isn’t tacky and maintains an even finish.
Cruelty free?No
Danielle Braff is a contributor to Savinly.
