The One Makeup Product That Makes Me Feel Rich in 5 Seconds Flat
I'm not the type of person to spend a ton of money on makeup. Skincare? Yes, I will do it (but rather guiltily). Makeup? I don't normally splurge that often. Sure, I love the expensive brands, and I do own a $50 foundation, but it's not something I do on the regular. And there's just something so thrilling about finding a go-to drugstore or affordable makeup option that's just as good as the pricey versions.
I will say, though, that there are a few expensive makeup products that I don't mind dropping money on, because they're worth it. And they make me feel so luxe. One of those is a YSL lipstick. Do these lipsticks cost almost $40? Yes. But do they make me feel rich? Also yes.
YSL has different lipstick options, from matte versions to satin-finish ones, and even an amazing lip stain. They're all pretty great, but my go-to is the Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm. I love that it's super hydrating and leaves just the right amount of shine. Whenever I wear it, I get a ton of compliments, and I feel a little fancier because I'm wearing a designer product on my lips. Hey, if I can't afford a closet full of YSL clothes and accessories just yet, at least I have the iconic brand's makeup on my vanity.
Take a look at some of the best YSL lipstick options for every skin tone below.
For Deep and Dark Skin Tones
1. Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Plum Tunique
This particular lipstick delivers medium coverage and plenty of hydration. It's infused with nourishing oils, pomegranate extract, macadamia butter, and hyaluronic acid. This rosy pink is just so luxurious and warm.
2. Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick Collection in Midnight LA
This deep crimson that has brown tones is just pure sophistication. Seriously, to me, it feels like a very grown-up color. It has a creamy satin finish, too.
3. Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick in Nude Sedition
This velvety, matte lipstick is a nude that's a mix between brown and mauve. The hue is like taking your natural lip color to the next level.
4. Vinyl Cream Lip Stain in Psychedelic Chili
This lipstick is named Psychedelic Chili, and it really lives up to its spicy name. The orange-red is so flattering and a fun way to switch things up from classic reds.
For Tan Skin Tones
5. Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Rose Nu
A pretty and classic pink, this lipstick is not too flashy but has the right amount of color. It has a balm-like texture that moisturizes the lips.
6. Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick Collection in Rouge Audacieux
This red lipstick has warm undertones, which works so well on tan skin tones. It only takes a swipe of the product to get full, rich coverage. Plus, it lasts for up to six hours.
7. The Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipstick in Nude Pulsion
For a semi-matte option, this lipstick formula contains silky oils, so it's comfortable to wear and doesn't crack. The color is so natural-looking—it's perfect for any occasion, especially if you want to do a no-makeup makeup look.
8. Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick in Coral Symbol
How bold do you want to go? If you want to go big, this bright-red coral will do the trick. And with a velvety matte finish, it looks so chic.
For Olive Skin Tones
9. Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Rouge Studio
This pinky-red works well on all skin tones but especially on olive skin. It's a deep and saturated color with high shine.
10. Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick in Beige Underground
This beige-pink option is just so pretty and natural-looking. The liquid lipstick leaves a matte finish, but it's not drying at all—it actually feels creamy when you put it on.
11. Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Matte Lipstick in Contrary Fuchsia
Talk about a bold pop of color. This fuchsia matte lipstick is one you'll want to wear if your goal is a statement lip. The full-coverage find is long-lasting, too.
12. Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick in Pink Celebration
And on the subject of statement lips, what about this pink lipstick that gives off very Barbie vibes? It will also look so good on just about any skin tone.
For Fair Skin Tones
13. Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick Collection in Rosy Nude
With a satin finish, this rich and creamy lipstick has just the right hint of rosy color.
14. Vinyl Cream Lip Stain in Burgundy Vibes
If you're looking for a sultry red, this is it. The lip stain leaves saturated color and a super-shiny finish.
15. Rouge Pur Couture Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipstick in Rouge Paradoxe
This particular red had a tinge of pink, so it's perfect if you don't want to do something that's all-out vampy. The matte finish is super sophisticated.
16. Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Smoking Plum
The rosy plum color is a fun way to mix it up if you're used to wearing pinks and reds.
More YSL Beauty Finds
This skin tint is perfect if you want something that's far from a heavy foundation. It delivers lightweight coverage, moisturizes, and a glowy finish. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and mallow.
For easy and quick touch-ups, use this concealer pen that also brightens and highlights.
For voluminous lashes, this mascara will do the work for you. It's formulated with a "triple-firm complex," which coats, conditions, and sets.
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.