When it comes to my makeup routine, I'm not really one to deviate from the norm. I mean, I am the person who has been using the same BB cream for almost 10 years! But while I stick to my usual products and looks for most of my face, there's one part that I don't mind experimenting on: my lips.
There are a couple of reasons why, but most of it has to do with how it's pretty low-lift and doesn't really require much technical skill. Trying out a new way to line my eyes or do my eye shadow will most likely take me a very long time and a lot of trial and error, but testing out a new lip color is pretty simple. And if I mess up or it doesn't look super flattering, I don't have to redo my whole makeup look. I can just swipe the color off and add a new one. Plus, when I don't feel like putting on a full face of makeup but need to look a little bit more polished, I rely on a bold lip color to really carry the weight for me.
A classic lipstick style that I'll never say no to is a matte lip. For me, it just looks so sophisticated and can be as dramatic or subtle as you want it to be, based on the color and saturation. You do have to be careful, though, because some formulations can be drying. If you already have chapped lips, it could really emphasize them, so you'll want to make sure your lips are hydrated before applying.
With that in mind, there are a lot of really great options when shopping for a matte lipstick, from high-end ones to more affordable options. In fact, a lot of them can be found at your local drugstore—who doesn't love saving some bucks? Plus, if you want to try out different matte colors, you can add a bunch to your cart without feeling guilty about the price.
If you're looking to hop on the matte lipstick train or want to try a new color or product, I've done the research and found some highly rated drugstore matte lipsticks for you.
With over 31,000 ratings and 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, this matte liquid lipstick doesn't disappoint. It comes in a huge range of shades—40 to be exact. The intense color will stay on for 16 hours.
What a reviewer says: "Okay at this point, I guess it's safe (and sad) to say that I am addicted to this matte lip ink/lipstick! I love it. I put it on in the morning, and if I don't take it off before I go to bed, which I always do, it will still be there in the morning."
This lipstick glides on so smoothly, and it won't dry out your lips. There are 42 shades to choose from, so there's something for every look and occasion. Did we mention that a tube will only set you back $4?
What a reviewer says: "This is a matte lipstick that is not moisturizing but also not drying. I have semi-sensitive lips that burn if lipstick is too drying, and I didn't have that issue with this. The color is pretty highly pigmented."
If you prefer a lip-stain formula rather than a traditional lipstick, you'll want to pay attention to this one from L'Oréal. It saturates your lips with color but is super lightweight at the same time.
What a reviewer says: "Love it!! It does go on like water but smoother. I hate being able to feel my makeup on my face; it distracts me, so this was a great option for me. I found the applicator shape super helpful and easy to use. Loved the pigmentation and the wear—very natural, doesn't look weird as it wears off. Some mattes I've tried wore off in patches or got clumpy on my lips as I drank stuff but not this one!!"
For a clean-beauty option, this liquid matte lipstick from Honest Beauty will be your go-to. It will also leave your lips nourished thanks to hyaluronic acid and avocado oil.
What a reviewer says: "Very pleased with this lip color. I've tried stains before, and they dried out my lips, but this doesn't. The color is beautiful and can be dark and bold if left on or lightened up with a dab of tissue and lighter lip gloss over it. It's versatile and pleasant to wear. I'd recommend it!"
This classic lipstick from Revlon delivers saturated color while hydrating the lips with its vitamin E– and avocado oil–infused formula. Even better news: It won't feel super heavy or caked on.
What a reviewer says: "I love this color! I had forgotten that brownish lipstick really makes my blue eyes pop. My husband even said I looked younger! It lasted for several hours and did not smudge. Lipstick tends to dry out on me but not this one. It really is lovely!"
You won't have any trouble applying this lipstick, as it glides on like a gloss, but you'll still get the matte look you want once it dries. The intense color really delivers, too.
What a reviewer says: "I have tried all kinds of liquid lipsticks. This, by far, is the best. Doesn't dry out your lips. Doesn't transfer. Bold color. Easy to apply with the shape of the brush. Not the biggest range of colors but for sure the best color. Beats the $20 lipsticks!"
While this one from Burt's Bees is a lip crayon rather than a traditional lipstick, it still leaves creamy color with a matte finish. It also might be the most nourishing one on our list since it's enriched with shea butter, jojoba oil, and kendi oil.
What a reviewer says: "Color and moisture all in one. This product's texture is just like Chapstick. It provides great moisture, and my lips aren't dry. The color is just as vibrant as a regular lipstick."
This waterproof and transfer-proof lipstick will just stay put, period. Lightweight and super matte, it won't flake or crack and can even increase your lip's moisture levels.
What a reviewer says: "This lipstick is super pigmented with rich color. It spreads onto my lips quickly and easily, depositing massive color. It is long wearing, lasting all day and night. Even when I eat and drink, this lipstick stays put. The best thing about this lipstick, besides its extreme longevity, is that it does not dry out my lips. Other long-lasting lipsticks will cause my lips to become dry and crack, necessitating an additional coat of lip gloss or lip balm. Not this lipstick. "
Rimmel's matte lipstick has all-day staying power, but it won't suck the moisture out of your lips. The saturated color means you'll probably only need to apply with a swipe or two to get a rich look.
What a reviewer says: "The lipstick is smooth and creamy, and it dries to a semi-matte finish. It wears very well and does not feel gloopy and heavy. It does not transfer excessively, even as I'm drinking from a bottle of water right now. The angle of the lipstick also makes it very easy to apply."
This liquid lipstick's long-lasting formula is infused with vitamin E, so it will keep your lips moisturized, too. It's cruelty-free and vegan and doesn't contain parabens or phthalates.
What a reviewer says: "I love this stuff! It's my favorite liquid matte. It doesn't get caked or dry like a lot of other liquid lipsticks I’ve used. It wears naturally, and the color is so pretty! Highly recommend!"
Formulated with honey nectar and other hydrating ingredients, you don't have to worry about this matte lipstick drying your lips. The color is super saturated, and you'll be left with a velvet finish.
What a reviewer says: "The best thing about this lipstick is that it's got a matte finish without being the least bit dry. It feels creamy and comfortable on my lips. It also stays on for a long time without caking or looking dry, and the color stays true."
The consistency of this lip product is whipped and mousse-like, making it so easy to apply smoothly and without any dryness. The non-smudge color lasts for up to eight hours. It is lightly scented with mango and vanilla, so if you're not into that, you might want to avoid this pick. But if you think that smells heavenly, you're in luck!
What a reviewer says: "My absolute favorite liquid lipstick! The mousse version is amazing. Stays on well, drys quickly during the application. Does not flake throughout the day. You will need to reapply after eating, but overall, it holds up well. And it feels super lightweight."
Next up, These 11 Drugstore Lip Glosses Look Just Like My Favorite Expensive Ones
