Top 10 Best Drugstore Lipsticks for 2025: Affordable Glam

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Discover the top 10 best drugstore lipsticks for 2025! Find long-lasting, vibrant, and affordable picks that suit every skin tone, perfect for your daily glow-up.

Picture this: You swipe on a bold, creamy lipstick that stays flawless through coffee runs, meetings, and evening plans—all for under $10. As a beauty blogger with over a decade of testing lipsticks, I’ve found that the best drugstore lipsticks in 2025 rival high-end brands in pigment, comfort, and staying power. These affordable gems have saved my makeup routine countless times, and they’ll do the same for you, whether you’re after a bold red or a subtle nude.

I’ve swatched, worn, and stress-tested these lipsticks through long days and humid nights to bring you the ultimate list. From my personal kit to feedback from readers like you, these picks are versatile, inclusive, and budget-friendly. Ready to find your new go-to? Let’s dive into the top 10 best drugstore lipsticks that’ll make you feel fierce and fabulous.

Why Drugstore Lipsticks Are Your 2025 Must-Haves

Drugstore lipsticks have stepped up their game, blending advanced formulas with inclusive shade ranges. I’ve been amazed by how these budget picks now offer hydration and wear time that rival luxury brands. For example, during a summer wedding, I relied on one of these to stay vibrant through hours of dancing—no touch-ups needed. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes lip hydration to prevent chapping, and many of these formulas deliver with ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E.

You’ll love how these lipsticks fit into any routine, whether you’re keeping it simple or going full glam. Pair them with our minimalist makeup tips for a quick, polished look. They’re perfect for anyone building an affordable beauty routine without sacrificing quality.

What to Look for in a Drugstore Lipstick

• Long-Lasting Wear: Aim for 8+ hours to breeze through your day.
• Hydration: Look for moisturizing ingredients to keep lips soft.
• Shade Inclusivity: Options for fair, medium, and deep skin tones.
• Finish Variety: Matte, satin, or glossy to match your vibe.
• Budget-Friendly: High performance under $10.

Image Credit: Ankush Dawar via Pexels

Top 10 Best Drugstore Lipsticks I Swear By

These lipsticks aren’t just products—they’re confidence in a tube. I’ve tested them in real-life scenarios, from client makeovers to my own daily grind, and they’ve never let me down. You’ll find shades for every skin tone and tips to make them pop, inspired by my years of trial and error. Before applying, prep your lips with our perfect lip prep routine for a smooth canvas.

1. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick

This lipstick is my lifesaver for long days. Its matte finish stays put through meals and meetings, and I’ve worn it for 12-hour shoots without a single reapply. The pigment is intense, and the applicator makes it easy to get crisp lines without a liner.

Shade Rec: “Voyager” – A deep red that’s universally flattering and gives me that bold, unstoppable vibe.

What we like:

• Exceptional longevity, lasting up to 16 hours through eating and drinking.
• Intense pigmentation with one swipe for vibrant color.
• Transfer-proof and comfortable once set, without feeling heavy.

What we don’t:

• Can be drying on sensitive lips if worn frequently without prep.
• Difficult to remove without a dedicated remover, which might smear if not careful.

Grab it here.

2. NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream

I discovered this gem during a hectic fashion week, and it’s been a staple ever since. It’s lightweight, non-drying, and blends like a dream for a soft-focus look. You’ll love how it feels like nothing but looks like everything.

Shade Rec: “Cannes” – A peachy nude that works for both warm and cool undertones, perfect for everyday chic.

What we like:

• Creamy, lightweight texture that sets to a comfortable matte without drying lips.
• Buildable pigmentation for customizable intensity.
• Affordable and cruelty-free with a pleasant scent.

What we don’t:

• May require reapplication after eating oily foods.
• Some shades can appear patchy on uneven lips without prep.

Shop it here. Want a glossy twist? Check our matte vs glossy lips guide.

3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

This classic was my first lipstick love, and it’s still a go-to for its creamy texture and easy glide. During a reader meet-up, everyone raved about its comfort, especially for beginners. It’s like a hug for your lips.

Shade Rec: “Black Cherry” – A bold burgundy that makes every skin tone pop with drama.

What we like:

• Moisturizing formula with vitamin E and avocado oil for soft, conditioned lips.
• Rich pigmentation and lightweight feel that lasts well.
• Wide shade range including iconic reds and nudes.

What we don’t:

• Not fully transfer-proof, may need touch-ups after eating.
• Can feather slightly on oily lips without liner.

Get it here.

Image Credit: Karolina Grabowska via Pexels

4. L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick

This satin finish feels like a luxury splurge but costs a fraction. I wore it to a friend’s wedding, and it kept my lips hydrated while complementing my smoky eye. You’ll appreciate its plush, moisturized feel for all-day wear.

Shade Rec: “Fairest Nude” – A neutral that pairs beautifully with any makeup look.

What we like:

• 75% caring ingredients like argan oil and vitamin E for hydrated, soft lips.
• Smooth application with no smudging or feathering.
• Long-lasting satin finish that doesn’t dry out.

What we don’t:

• May fade faster on oily lips or after meals.
• Strong scent that might not appeal to everyone.

Snag yours here. For bold eye inspo, see our smokey eye guide.

5. e.l.f. SRSLY Satin Lipstick

This budget-friendly pick is a personal favorite for its creamy color and cute packaging. I tossed it in my purse for a weekend trip, and it held up through brunches and selfies. You’ll love its buildable coverage for any mood.

Shade Rec: “Taffy” – A playful pink that’s flirty yet professional.

What we like:

• One-swipe pigmentation with a smooth, satin finish.
• Moisturizing and comfortable, infused with jojoba and macadamia oils.
• Very affordable with no transfer issues.

What we don’t:

• Can feel too slick, leading to shorter wear time.
• Some shades may drag on dry lips.

Add it to your cart here.

6. Wet n Wild Megalast Catsuit Matte Lipstick

Cruelty-free and wallet-friendly, this matte lipstick surprised me with its staying power during a long client call day. It’s flexible, moving with your lips without cracking, so you can talk and sip coffee worry-free.

Shade Rec: “Give Me Mocha” – A rose-brown that’s your new everyday essential.

What we like:

• High pigmentation with a matte finish that lasts through meals.
• Transfer-proof and lightweight, not drying for a matte.
• Great value and cruelty-free.

What we don’t:

• May require reapplication after oily foods.
• Some find the formula patchy if not applied evenly.

Shop now here.

7. Milani Color Statement Lipstick

Milani’s pigmentation is unreal—I used it for a photoshoot, and it stole the show. Its rich color and staying power make it a must for anyone craving high-end vibes on a budget. You’ll feel red-carpet-ready.

Shade Rec: “Teddy Bare” – A chic nude brown that flatters every complexion.

What we like:

• Rich, full-coverage pigmentation that lasts well.
• Moisturizing with vitamins A, C, and E for nourished lips.
• Affordable with a wide, inclusive shade range.

What we don’t:

• Can settle into lip lines if not prepped.
• Strong fruity scent may bother some.

Check it out here. Compare with luxury picks in our luxurious lipsticks guide.

Image Credit: Mart Productions via Pexels

8. Covergirl Exhibitionist Cream Lipstick

This creamy formula saved my dry lips during a winter shoot. It glides on like butter and keeps lips soft, making it a godsend for anyone battling chapping. You’ll want this for cold-weather glam.

Shade Rec: “Romance Mauve” – A romantic flush that suits every skin tone.

What we like:

• Ultra-hydrating with shea butter for soft, conditioned lips.
• Smooth application with good color payoff.
• Long-lasting for a cream formula.

What we don’t:

• Can transfer easily, not ideal for masks.
• May feather without liner on some lips.

Try it here.

9. Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick

For clean beauty lovers, this was my go-to during a beach vacation. Its natural ingredients didn’t fade under the sun, and the pigment is surprisingly bold. You’ll feel good about its eco-friendly vibe.

Shade Rec: “Scarlet Soaked” – A vibrant red for both cool and warm tones.

What we like:

• 100% natural ingredients with moringa and raspberry seed oils for moisture.
• Comfortable wear with good pigmentation.
• Cruelty-free and eco-friendly packaging.

What we don’t:

• Shorter wear time compared to synthetic formulas.
• May need frequent reapplication.

Go natural here. Explore more clean beauty with our organic skincare brands.

10. Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate Moss

Kate Moss’s touch makes this lipstick my pick for edgy, cool-girl looks. I wore it to a concert, and it stayed flawless through singing and drinks. You’ll channel that rockstar energy effortlessly.

Shade Rec: 05 from the Moss collection – A bold berry for instant glam.

What we like:

• Intense color payoff with up to 8 hours of wear.
• Comfortable, non-drying formula.
• Affordable with stylish packaging.

What we don’t:

• Can transfer and requires touch-ups.
• Strong scent that may not suit everyone.

Grab yours here.

Image Credit: Remmel

How to Pick and Apply Your Perfect Lipstick

Finding your shade starts with knowing your undertone—check your wrist veins in daylight. I learned this the hard way after picking clashing shades early in my career. For application, I swear by a lip pencil for definition. According to Wikipedia’s page on lipsticks, modern formulas use waxes for structure, which these picks nail for smooth wear.

Application Steps You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner:

1. Exfoliate with a DIY sugar scrub (try our DIY face mask recipes for ideas).
2. Apply a thin layer of lip balm and wait 2 minutes.
3. Outline lips with a matching pencil, then fill with lipstick.
4. Blot with tissue and reapply for staying power.
5. Dust translucent powder for extra matte hold.

For oily skin, stick to matte finishes—our oily skin makeup tips have more hacks.

FAQs About Best Drugstore Lipsticks

Q1: Why are these the best drugstore lipsticks for 2025?

A: These lipsticks combine vibrant color, comfort, and affordability. I’ve tested them through long days, and their advanced formulas—like hydrating polymers—keep lips happy, making them perfect for you.

Q2: How do you choose a lipstick shade for your skin tone?

A: Match your undertone: warm (peachy nudes), cool (berries), or neutral (reds). Swatch on your jawline in natural light. I once picked a coral that clashed until I learned this trick!

• Warm: Try NYX Cannes.
• Cool: Go for Revlon Black Cherry.
• Neutral: Maybelline Voyager is your friend.

Q3: Are drugstore lipsticks good for sensitive lips?

A: Absolutely, especially options like Burt’s Bees. I’ve recommended these to clients with sensitivities, and patch-testing first ensures safety. Always check for fragrance-free labels.

Conclusion

These top 10 best drugstore lipsticks for 2025 are my tried-and-true picks, transforming my routine from stressful touch-ups to effortless confidence. Whether you’re drawn to Maybelline’s bold matte or Covergirl’s creamy comfort, you’ll find a shade that feels like you. 

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