We asked makeup artists what their favorite lipsticks are. These are the makeup artist-approved lipsticks you need to try.
There are lots of lipsticks out there. To choose the perfect one, we rely on lots of testing, the honest opinion of sales associates, reviews from our friends and family, and thousands of recommendations on the internet. One group of people we would gladly ring up for lipstick opinions is makeup artists. They use makeup every day for their jobs and discover quickly what products are worth clearing a space for in their kits and what ones don’t. In our new series, we asked makeup artists what their favorite products are, so write them down the next time you’re hunting for a new lippy. Whether you want to try a new range or an amazing specific shade, they’ve given us both.
(Related: This Drugstore Brand Plum Lipstick Has Already Become My Fall Beauty Staple)
These are the lipsticks makeup artists can’t get enough of:
1. Audacious Lipstick In Barbara, NARS
Makeup artist and Artis brush founder Matthew Waitesmith selected this lipstick as his favorite because of its “good pigment load, and [it] is a wonderfully neutral and flattering color.” The “Barbara” shade is a tan rose that is the perfect my-lips-but-better color. Monika Crouch also selected NARS lipsticks are one of her favorites.
2. Color Statement Matte Lipstick, Milani Cosmetics
If you like matte lipsticks, Taraji P. Henson’s makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff likes this affordable range. She says, “These matte lipsticks come in bold, bright colors that give mega pigment and deposits true color with a wonderful velvet finish that doesn’t feather or bleed.”
3. Lip Color In Sable Smoke, Tom Ford
Finding the perfect nude lipstick can be as tricky as finding a flattering red. Forward Artists makeup artist Samuel Paul says this one works with many different complexions, “Its toasty nude tone complements many skin tones.”
4. Liquid Lipstick, Anastasia Beverly Hills
This was makeup artist and lash designer Monika Crouch’s other pick. Liquid lipsticks are huge right now. This one gives you smear-resistant color and a pigmented matte finish.
5. Rouge Artist Intense, Make Up For Ever
Forward Artists makeup artist Kathy Jeung loves this collection of lipsticks because “the color range [has something] for everyone, and the rich triple-pigmented formula doesn’t flake, crease or leave deposits over time, even on drier lips.” What more could you ask for?
6. Lipstick In Ruby Woo, MAC
Makeup artist and founder of a namesake cleansing wipes line Lauren Napier chose a cult classic lipstick for a bold matte look. It’s been praised over and over, so you shouldn’t be surprised to see it on this list.
7. Lipstick In Peachstock, MAC
Makeup artist Jose Corella also chose MAC lipstick for his pick. For a great “natural” nude lip, he likes to combine this creamy beige peach shade with the Velvet Teddy shade on the corners of the lips.
8. Classic Cream Lipstick, Dolce & Gabbana
Lauren Napier’s other favorite was a velvety Dolce & Gabbana lipstick for “a vintage nude look.” The moisturizing formula is as great as the multiple flattering nude colors.
9. Ultra Long-Lasting Lipstick Trio, ModelCo
Makeup artist Birchbox Brand Ambassador and vlogger Tati Westbrook chose this set which contains three different lipstick shades. The multi-pack isn’t the only reason she likes it. She says, “I normally don’t go for long-wear lipsticks, but the pigmentation is to die for, and the formula doesn’t dry out my lips.”
10. Lipstick In Kiss Of Fire, Dose Of Colors
You may not have heard of makeup artist Jade Marie’s favorite lipstick, but you should familiarize yourself with the brand. She states, “These matte colors glide on smooth and dry to a matte finish with ultra-long staying power.”