Lip tints have become a staple in many women’s beauty routines, offering a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional lipstick. If you’re tired of reapplying your lip color throughout the day, you may be considering making the switch. However, before committing to a particular brand or type, it’s essential to consider several key factors that can make all the difference in achieving the desired look.
From permanence to ease of application, ingredients and practices, shade and type, using tints with lip balm and primer, and more, we’ll explore the most important considerations when selecting the best lip tint for your lips. With so many options available, it’s crucial to do your research and find a product that meets your specific needs and preferences.
What Is a Lip Tint?
South Korea is renowned for its cosmetics industry, where lip tints have become a staple product. But what’s behind their popularity? Essentially, lip tints are a type of cosmetic that offers a subtle, yet impactful, coloring effect on the lips. The result can range from a light wash to a darker hue or even a gradient finish – similar in appearance to a lip stain, albeit with slightly less intense pigmentation and permanence.
Typically, these tints have a liquid or gel base infused with gentle hints of color that subtly enhance the natural tone of the lips.
Factors to Consider in a Good Lip Tint
Lip tints are a game-changer for anyone looking for a product that combines long-lasting color and moisture-rich benefits. While the term ‘lip tint’ can encompass a wide range of products, it’s essential to understand that there are distinct categories within this umbrella term. In our curated selection, you’ll find four main types: liquid lip tints, gel lip tints, peel-off lip tints, and tint sticks.
As we delve into the top picks for 2024, we’ll examine the key considerations that set a great lip tint apart from the rest. From streamlining your makeup routine to delivering vibrant color, the perfect lip tint should simplify your beauty regimen while making your lips pop with vibrancy.
Permanence
While no two lip tints share identical characteristics, one common distinction lies in their duration of wear. Some products deliver extended wearability, whereas others may fade or disappear shortly after application. As we delve into our selection of standout lip tints, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of each product’s staying power, allowing you to make informed choices when it comes to your own beauty routine.
Ease of Application
While some lip tint applicators can be frustratingly finicky, we deliberately prioritized ease of application when selecting our top picks. The quality of an applicator brush can significantly impact the overall experience, making it a crucial consideration for a lip tint that promises to deliver on its claims.
Shade
When it comes to selecting a lip tint that complements your features, one crucial aspect to consider is finding the perfect shade. If you’re new to exploring different lip colors, this consideration can be overwhelming. However, with a little guidance, you can discover which hue will bring out your best features.
Type
Want to know more about the various types of lip tints and how they can benefit your beauty routine? Head over to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for a detailed breakdown of their strengths and weaknesses. Each review will also provide insight into the specific type of lip tint being featured, helping you make an informed decision.
Using Tints With Lip Balm and Lip Primer
One potential drawback of lip tints is that they can lead to dry, chapped lips. To mitigate this issue, consider pairing your lip tint with a nourishing lip balm, which we’ve explored in-depth elsewhere. If you’re looking to elevate your makeup game for a special occasion or simply want to establish a consistent routine, it’s worth delving into the world of lip primers as well. Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into our top recommendations and get ready to make your lips stand out.
Top 10 Best Lip Tints 2023
Best Overall Pick: Color Quench Lip Tint by Pacifica Beauty
Pacifica Beauty’s Color Quench Lip Tint is a standout product that not only moisturizes your lips but also gives them a subtle, shimmery tint. With up to 12 hours of wear, these lip tints are perfect for those who want a natural look without feeling like they’re wearing too much makeup. The five available shades offer varying levels of color payoff, so it’s worth noting that the lighter options may not show up as well on darker skin tones.
To get the most out of your lip tint, choose a shade with a bit more depth. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the Color Quench Lip Tint is surprisingly rich in coconut oil, which keeps lips feeling smooth and supple. Plus, it’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free – a win-win for those who prioritize animal welfare. The only potential drawback is the light scent, which may be too strong for those with sensitive noses.
In terms of application, the stick format makes it easy to apply and reapply throughout the day without worrying about smudging or feathering. When you’re done, simply wipe off any excess product with a damp cotton ball or rag. If you’re looking for a lip tint that can withstand the demands of a busy workday – think hospital or service job – this option is a great choice.
While it may not be the longest-lasting option on the market, it’s still a solid performer that won’t leave you feeling like you need to reapply every hour. For those seeking an even longer-lasting solution, consider the Dear Darling Water Tint by Etude House.
Best Premium Pick: Han Cheek & Lip Tint
Han’s Cheek & Lip Tint is a standout product in the world of natural cosmetics, boasting a luxurious feel and a healthy glow that’s perfect for all skin tones. Its vegan and cruelty-free formula is made with natural ingredients like argan oil and vitamins, which not only provide coverage but also moisturize the skin. The tint stick offers a silky smooth color that blends effortlessly, making it ideal for simplifying your makeup routine.
With its high level of pigmentation, it provides an all-natural look that’s perfect for everyday use. The scent is naturally sweet, reminiscent of brown sugar, although some may find it overpowering. While the product is great for most skin types, those with oily skin may want to consider alternative options due to its rich and buttery texture.
Overall, Han’s Cheek & Lip Tint is a high-quality product that offers 3-6 hours of coverage, making it perfect for anyone looking for a natural-looking makeup solution.
Best Lip Tint for Korean Gradient Lips: Colorable Draw Tint by It’s Skin
It’s Skin’s Colorable Draw Tint is a delightful product that charms us with its velvety gel formula, reminiscent of candy and leaving our lips feeling soft and hydrated. The sheer lip tint creates a stunning gradient effect, perfect for those who want to achieve the trendy Korean look. With an easy-to-use applicator and a range of colors to choose from, it’s no wonder this product has won us over.
One minor drawback is that the scent can be overpowering at first, but fortunately, it dissipates once the product dries. Additionally, be cautious when applying as it may transfer onto your clothes while still wet. Despite its limitations in terms of longevity, we find this lip tint to be a great option for those who don’t mind reapplying throughout the day or using it for a night out.
The pros far outweigh the cons for us – the velvety texture, hydrating properties, and gorgeous matte color with sheer finish make it a must-try.
Most Versatile Lip Tint: Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint by Peripera
The Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint by Peripera is a standout product that delivers a stunning matte finish, making your lips appear plump and full. Its long-lasting formula ensures the color stays put for over 12 hours, perfect for busy individuals who don’t have time to reapply throughout the day. The liquid lip tint glides on smoothly, thanks to its precision applicator tip, which can also be used to achieve a trendy Korean gradient lip look.
The product has a subtle strawberry scent that’s not overpowering and feels luxurious due to its mousse-like consistency.
One of the standout features is its versatility – one coat provides a sheer, natural look, while two coats give you a bold, matte finish. However, it’s essential to note that the more coats you apply, the more emphasis is placed on lip creases, which can be problematic for individuals with dry or flaky lips.
To prevent this issue, exfoliate your lips before application and follow up with a nourishing lip balm.
If you’re looking for an alternative to this product that won’t accentuate lip creases, consider the Colorable-Draw-Tint by It’s Skin. This lip tint offers a lightweight texture and doesn’t dry out the lips, even though it has a shorter lifespan. Overall, the Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint is a great option for those who want to achieve a bold, matte look that lasts all day.
Best Budget Pick: Dear Darling Water Tint by Etude House
The Dear Darling Water Tint by Etude House is a standout product that delivers on its promise of long-lasting, natural-looking color. This liquid lip tint is incredibly lightweight and water-based, making it perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to reapply throughout the day. While it does require some maintenance – as the more you eat and drink, the faster the color will fade – the payoff is well worth the effort.
The tint itself is easy to apply using the included brush applicator, although exfoliating your lips beforehand can help ensure an even finish. One of its most impressive features is its ability to provide a bright pop of color to the lips, making it a great option for those who want to add some vibrancy to their look. However, it does have one major drawback: it has a tendency to dry out lips, which can be frustrating if you’re prone to dry or chapped lips.
To combat this, we recommend following up with a lip balm or gloss. Another minor issue is the less-than-ideal taste – so be sure to let the product fully dry before giving in to the urge to lick your lips. Despite these small drawbacks, the Dear Darling Water Tint remains a fan favorite due to its lightweight formula, long-lasting color, and easy application.
Best Lip Tint for Natural Look: Dear Darling Ice Cream Tint by Etude House
The Etude House Dear Darling Ice Cream Tint is a delightful gel lip tint that not only smells and tastes like ice cream but also boasts adorable packaging. Its natural-looking finish makes it perfect for anyone seeking a subtle lip color. The formula is easy to work with, allowing you to achieve a light, sheer coat or build up to a darker shade by applying multiple coats. However, be prepared for some drying time as the consistency can be slightly sticky until fully set.
The packaging is a major selling point, making it an excellent gift option for teenagers who are just starting to explore makeup. The applicator brush features a foam tip that makes application effortless. If you’re looking for a lip tint that will last all day, this may not be the best choice as its wear time is limited to around 4 hours. On the other hand, it’s ideal for students or individuals with a more relaxed makeup routine.
If you prefer a natural look and need a lip tint that can withstand the test of time, consider the Peripera Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint, which offers a single-coat application that can last over 12 hours. The Dear Darling Ice Cream Tint’s pros include its natural appearance, sheer finish, and easy application. Its cons are the slight stickiness when too much product is used and the fact that the color doesn’t last as long as some users might prefer.
Best Lip Tint Value Pack: Wine Lip Tint by Manzimiao
Manzimiao’s Wine Lip Tints were designed for individuals who crave vibrant lip colors. These gel-based tints boast ease of application, rapid drying, and a long-lasting finish that can last up to 8 hours. The product’s unique design features a wine bottle-inspired packaging, making it an ideal gift for those who appreciate bold beauty statements. Notably, these lip tints retain their color even after consuming small amounts of wine, though they may start to fade after eating a meal.
The applicator, reminiscent of a lip gloss bottle, simplifies the application process and ensures minimal mess. Once dry, the Wine Lip Tints adopt a matte finish. As an added benefit, these products are vegan and cruelty-free. However, it’s essential to note that the colors appear even more vibrant in person than in images, and the formula may cause lip dryness. To mitigate this issue, apply lip balm throughout the day to maintain moisture.
For those who prioritize a more subtle beauty look or prefer not to worry about color transfer during meals, alternative options like Etude House’s Dear Darling Ice Cream Tint may be a better fit.
Best Peel-off Lip Tint: Oops My Lip Tint by Berrisom
The appeal of Berrisom’s Oops My Lip Tint lies in its ability to deliver vibrant, poppy colors while maintaining a natural appearance. This long-lasting peel-off lip tint is easy to apply and fun to remove. With a gel formula that can be precisely applied using a Q-tip or lip brush, it’s no wonder why we’re hooked. One of the standout features of this product is its versatility – it suits all skin tones equally well, bringing a playful hue to your lips.
While it may take some practice to get the hang of applying it initially, once you master the technique, you’ll be tinting your lips with ease every morning. We appreciate how the bright color still manages to give lips a natural appearance. The application process is straightforward: simply apply the lip tint using a Q-tip or lip brush, taking care to carefully line your lips. For extra precision, use a magnifying mirror.
Keep in mind that it takes around 10-15 minutes for the lip tint to dry completely, so be sure to set aside sufficient time in the morning – especially if you’re applying a thick layer. Once it’s fully dry, simply peel off the lip tint and add some lip gloss to make the color truly pop. Just remember not to lick your lips before wiping them with water, as it can have an unpleasant taste. You can test the waters by ordering a single tube or opting for a 6-pack of Oops My Lip Tints by Berrisom.
However, be aware that these lip tints may cause discomfort if applied to severely chapped lips. If you do experience this issue, we recommend considering an all-natural lip tint that can moisturize and color your lips simultaneously. Our go-to option is the Color Quench Lip Tint by Pacifica Beauty. The pros of Berrisom’s Oops My Lip Tint include ease of application, a natural-looking finish, and long-lasting color.
On the other hand, some users may find it doesn’t taste great, can cause discomfort on severely chapped lips, or takes a bit longer to dry.
Best Pigmented Lip Tints: Delight Tony Tint Set by TonyMoly
The Delight Tony Tint Set by TonyMoly stands out for its exceptional pigmentation and ease of application. The set consists of three lip tints, each packaged in a heart-shaped tube that exudes charm. Upon opening the tubes, you’re greeted with a sweet, berry-like aroma that’s pleasant to the senses. The applicator brush makes it effortless to apply these gel-based lip tints, which deliver vibrant color and impressive staying power.
The red shade is particularly noteworthy, offering a bold pop of color that’s sure to turn heads. However, it’s essential to apply thin layers, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding more. This prevents the stickiness from becoming overwhelming. While these lip tints aren’t the longest-lasting options on the market, they can still deliver up to four hours of wear if you keep your consumption of drinks and foods moderate.
It’s crucial to note that, as with any non-natural product, these tints may not be suitable for individuals with cracked or chapped lips, as they could exacerbate the issue. Furthermore, they don’t provide moisture to the lips, making them less than ideal for those seeking hydration. If you’re in the market for a lip tint set that offers great value and doesn’t compromise on performance, consider the Wine Lip Tints by Manzimiao instead.
These tints deliver impressive color payoff without drying out your lips, as long as you follow up with a nourishing lip balm.
Best Lip Tint for Dark Skin Tones: Jelly Plumping Water Tint by MQNY
When it comes to the Jelly Plumping Water Tint by MQNY, what sets it apart is its bold, matte finish that lasts up to 4 hours. This liquid lip tint boasts a tiny applicator that makes precise application easy, despite the intense pigmentation. In fact, the pigment is so strong that it may take some getting used to your new, vibrant look. With a small caveat: these tints might be too intense for those with lighter skin tones.
We recommend them more to darker-skinned women (or those who enjoy a bold lip). One of the standout features of this product is its non-transferable formula – kiss your partner all you like, and your lips won’t leave any unwanted stains. The finish also provides an incredibly soft and lightweight feel. However, it’s worth noting that the more you eat and drink, the faster these tints will fade.
And while they do last up to 4 hours, the fade is often uneven, leaving you with a subtle lip liner effect at the end of the day. The packaging does have one drawback: the tubes don’t seal well, which can lead to leakage. If you’re in the market for a lightweight tint that produces a soft, natural look on all skin tones, consider the Han Cheek & Lip Tint instead – it’s super versatile and creamy.
Guide to Buying the Best Lip Tint
Navigating the vast array of lip products available today can be overwhelming, making it difficult to identify the perfect one for your unique needs. Our comprehensive guide aims to simplify this process by providing expert advice and techniques on how to achieve a stunning Korean-inspired gradient lip look, among many other valuable insights.
Different Types of Lip Tints
While all lip tints share similar effects, they’re made up of distinct ingredients that alter their textures. Let’s dive deeper into the different types of lip tints we touched on earlier. Liquid lip tints are typically water-based, which explains why they don’t dry out lips. They have a runny consistency and can take some practice to apply perfectly. However, once mastered, they offer a very natural-looking finish. Notably, liquid lip tints provide the longest coverage duration of all types.
If you’re after a long-lasting, water-based option, consider the Dear Darling Water Tint by Etude House, which offers over 12 hours of wear. Gel lip tints have a mousse-like texture that can leave lips feeling pampered. However, they tend to fade relatively quickly and may cause lips to feel dry. Despite this, gel lip tints are popular for their ability to create a gorgeous matte finish once they’ve dried.
If you’re looking for a gel option with gradient capabilities, the Colorable Draw Tint by It’s Skin is a great choice. Peel-off lip tints have a gel consistency that dries and can be peeled off to reveal lightly tinted lips. While these products can dry out lips if not used with care, they offer a way to add color without looking artificial. To get the most out of peel-off lip tints, apply lip balm beforehand to keep your lips hydrated.
Our top pick in this category is the Oops My Lip Tint by Berrisom. Last but not least, tint sticks are incredibly easy to apply, much like a lipstick or lip balm. They have a creamy texture and are known for their moisturizing properties. Tint sticks offer a natural look while plumping and hydrating lips. Plus, they’re quite long-lasting, making them a favorite among lip tint enthusiasts.
If you’re interested in trying a tint stick, the Color Quench Lip Tint by Pacifica Beauty is a great starting point.
How to Create a Korean Gradient Lip
Korean gradient lips have taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. This trend originated in South Korea before spreading globally, offering a fresh take on traditional lip colors. The hallmark of this style is a bold pop of color at the center of the lips that gradually fades towards the edges. To master this look, start by exfoliating your lips to remove any dead skin cells.
Then, apply a lip tint to the center of your lips, and blend it outwards using your finger, a lip brush, or a Q-tip. For an ombre effect, repeat this process with a lighter shade, gradually building up to the desired intensity. Finish off the look by applying a layer of lip gloss for added shine.
If you’re interested in giving Korean gradient lips a try, consider investing in products like Peripera’s Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint or It’s Skin’s Colorable Draw Tint – both great options for achieving this unique and alluring aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Lip Tints Good for You?
While it’s true that most lip tints are generally harmless when crafted with wholesome ingredients, some products can still have negative effects on your lips. For instance, certain formulations may contain drying agents that strip your lips of their natural moisture. If you’re in the market for a lip tint that’s not only effective but also free from harsh chemicals, we highly recommend exploring options like Pacifica Beauty’s Color Quench Lip Tint.
This all-natural alternative is a great choice for those looking to add a pop of color to their pout without compromising on healthy ingredients.
How Long Do Lip Tints Last?
The longevity of lip tints can vary significantly, ranging from 3 to 12 hours. Factors that can impact their wearability include consuming food or drinks, which can cause them to fade rapidly. Interestingly, two products on our list boast a remarkable staying power of 12 hours or more: the Ink Airy Velvet Lip Tint by Peripera and the Dear Darling Water Tint by Etude House.
What’s the Difference Between a Lip Tint and a Lip Stain?
While lip tints and lip stains share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that can help you determine which one is best for you. One of the main distinctions lies in their formulation: lip tints are typically gel-based or water-based, resulting in a sheer or matte finish that can last around 12 hours without compromising your natural lip color.
In contrast, lip stains usually rely on an alcohol base and boast a more intense, darker shade that dries quickly to provide a bold pop of color that can persist for over 24 hours, depending on the brand. The key difference here is that lip tints are generally less permanent and offer a more natural appearance, whereas lip stains have the potential to leave a lasting stain on your lips if not properly removed.
As such, those seeking a subtle, low-maintenance option may find lip tints to be the better choice, while those looking for a bold, long-lasting statement color might prefer lip stains.
Last Thoughts
In the world of beauty, a statement lip can make all the difference. But let’s face it – traditional lipstick can be high maintenance, requiring precision application and frequent reapplication to stay looking fresh. That’s why lip tints have become a game-changer for busy beauty enthusiasts. These lightweight formulas provide a natural-looking wash of color that stays put, even through meals and daily activities.
With the right lip tint, you can enjoy a confident and effortless look that lasts all day long.
