We’ve all been there—you swipe on your favorite lipstick in the morning, only to have it disappear by lunchtime. Whether it’s from sipping coffee, snacking, or just living your life, lipstick can fade fast. And constantly reapplying it is not only annoying but sometimes just not possible when you're busy. That’s why long-lasting lipsticks are such a game-changer. These formulas are designed to stay put through meals, meetings, and everything in between, so you can look fresh without reaching for your makeup bag every hour.

But not all “long-wear” lipsticks live up to the hype. Some dry out your lips, flake off, or settle into lines. Others might last, but they feel heavy or sticky. The best long-lasting lipsticks should do three things: stay put, feel comfortable, and look great all day. Whether you’re into matte, satin, glossy, or liquid formulas, there’s something out there that works for your style and needs.

In this article, we’ll break down some of the best lipsticks for all-day wear—covering high-end favorites and drugstore gems. We’ll also give tips on how to make any lipstick last longer, no matter the brand. Let’s dive in and find your new go-to lip color!

1. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick

This drugstore favorite has earned its spot at the top. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink is known for being seriously long-lasting—like, 16-hour-wear kind of lasting. It glides on like a liquid and dries down to a bold matte finish that doesn’t budge.

Why people love it:

  • Lasts through eating and drinking
  • Comes in tons of shades (from nudes to bright reds)
  • Affordable and easy to find

Tips for best results: Let it dry fully before touching your lips together. It can feel a little sticky at first, but once it sets, you’re good to go.

2. MAC Retro Matte Lipstick (Especially Ruby Woo)

If you’re into classic lipstick in a bullet form, MAC Retro Matte is a great pick. The most famous shade, Ruby Woo, is a bold red that flatters every skin tone and stays on for hours.

Why people love it:

  • Iconic color and super matte finish
  • Doesn’t smudge easily
  • Feels lightweight on the lips

Keep in mind: Since it’s a true matte, it can feel a bit dry. Use a lip balm underneath for comfort, but don’t overdo it or the color won’t stick.

3. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint

Rihanna’s makeup line, Fenty Beauty, is known for inclusive shades and high performance. The Stunna Lip Paint is a long-wearing liquid lipstick with a soft matte finish. Just one swipe gives you full coverage, and it feels feather-light.

Why people love it:

  • Highly pigmented (a little goes a long way)
  • Feels comfortable and smooth
  • Chic packaging and unique applicator

Top shade to try: Uncensored (a universal red that works for everyone)

4. Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede Lipstick

Revlon’s ColorStay Ultimate Suede combines long wear with a softer, satin-like finish—not quite matte, but not shiny either. It’s great for people who want staying power but don’t love the dry feel of typical matte lipsticks.

Why people love it:

  • Feels more moisturizing than most long-wear formulas
  • Great for everyday wear
  • Affordable and available in many shades

Pro tip: Let it set for a minute before pressing your lips together, especially if you’ve layered it.

5. NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment

This liquid lipstick from NARS is known for being both super pigmented and super long-lasting. It goes on like ink, dries quickly, and leaves your lips looking flawless for hours.

Why people love it:

  • Thin formula that doesn’t feel heavy
  • Vibrant colors that really pop
  • Doesn’t bleed or transfer easily

Try this: Starwoman is a fan-favorite red that looks stunning on all skin tones.

6. L'Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick

L'Oréal’s Infallible Pro-Matte line is another affordable option that really delivers. It promises up to 16 hours of wear and has a soft matte finish that’s more flexible and comfortable than some super-matte types.

Why people love it:

  • Long-lasting but not drying
  • Large shade range
  • Comfortable enough for all-day wear

Great for: Busy days when you don’t have time for touch-ups but still want to look polished.

7. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick

If you want a more luxurious option, Charlotte Tilbury has one of the most talked-about lipstick lines. The Matte Revolution formula is creamy, long-wearing, and comes in stunning, wearable shades.

Why people love it:

  • Matte, but still hydrating
  • Iconic packaging
  • Colors designed to enhance natural lip tones

Top shade: Pillow Talk—a rosy nude that works on just about everyone.

8. Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain

Sephora’s house brand offers a great bang for your buck. The Cream Lip Stain is a lightweight liquid lipstick that dries down to a soft matte and stays in place for hours.

Why people love it:

  • Huge range of shades (including bold and neutral)
  • Long-lasting with a comfortable feel
  • Budget-friendly at under $15

Bonus: These also smell like vanilla, which is a fun extra!

9. Covergirl Outlast All-Day Lip Color

Covergirl’s Outlast system comes with two parts: a color coat and a moisturizing topcoat. The color lasts for hours, while the balm helps keep lips soft and prevents cracking.

Why people love it:

  • Long wear without dryness
  • Customizable shine with the topcoat
  • Perfect for all-day events

Good for: Weddings, workdays, or any situation where you need lipstick that truly won’t move.

10. Dior Rouge Forever Liquid Lipstick

If you’re looking to splurge, Dior Rouge Forever is worth every penny. This high-end lipstick delivers intense color and serious staying power. It dries to a powdery matte that won’t budge for up to 12 hours.

Why people love it:

  • Elegant packaging and luxurious feel
  • Transfer-proof and smudge-proof
  • Available in timeless shades

Best for: Special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.