Lip and cheek makeup are responsible, on any makeup look, to live up the complexion with a healthy tone. With lovely natural tones of pink or peach for fair skin, or with more vivid options such as red and wine color for deep skin tones, the cheeks and lips light up and make even more of your look. If touch-ups are the part that put you off, maybe all you need is a lip and cheek stain! These marvel formulas deliver color that wants to stay put and gives what you need: a long-lasting result without transfer or any visible texture.
On this post:
- What is a lip and cheek stain?
- How long does lip and cheek stain last?
- How do you apply cheek stain?
- Is lip stain better than lipstick?
- Does lip stain wash off?
- Can you put lip gloss over lip stain?
- Some of our favorite lip and cheek stains
What is a lip and cheek stain?
A lip and cheek stain is a makeup product that delivers color in a lightweight watery texture. As the skin absorbs the formula, the only evidence that it leaves behind is the very reason that made you apply it: the color. If you have never tried one, it may be hard to imagine. One thing is for sure, it is even more weightless than what you think! Long story short, you use it—like any other liquid lip or blush makeup—to add extremely long-lasting color to your makeup without any added texture.
How long does lip and cheek stain last?
Depending on the product—as well as on the color chosen—lip and cheek stains can last up to 12 hours. Keep in mind that the longevity may be compromised if you apply the tint over makeup layers (for example, if you apply lip and cheek stain over foundation). You may also notice a slight difference in the performance of the product between cheeks and lips; the lip area is more subject to friction, by talking, drinking, and eating, and it may fade out quicker than it does on the cheeks.
How do you apply cheek stain?
Regardless of the makeup application tools you have available, nothing can stop you from a good cheek stain blend! This type of product is extremely versatile and blendable, which makes it hard to do it wrong. You can use your fingers to apply it directly on the cheeks, taping and blending as you go. If you’d rather use a makeup tool, then a brush would be a better idea than a sponge. In our experience, a duo fiber brush like the Eigshow Beauty Duo Fibre Brush F611 is the way to go.
Is lip stain better than lipstick?
We’re listing the pros of each option and let you decide which would be the best option for you! It really comes up to what you love about your lip formulas.
Pros of lip stains:
- Easy to apply
- Extremely long-lasting
- Non-transferable & kiss-proof
- Doubles up as cheek stain
- Weightless texture on the lips
Pros of lipsticks:
- More variety of finishes
- Very hydrating or extremely matte formulas available
- Available with more color pay-off
Does lip stain wash off?
Unlike your regular lip makeup, lip stains may leave a slight tint behind. It may even outlive an oil-based cleanser! However, there’s nothing to worry about. As you wash it off with a makeup remover, most of it goes away; as for the slight color that may be left behind, it’s weak, faded, and won’t have much time to live.
Can you put lip gloss over lip stain?
Sure! Your makeup, your rules. For some lip stain formulas, you’ll have all the glossy finish you need using the satin alone. However, as the shine fades and the color keeps going, you may like to revive it with some shine—and a lip gloss is a lovely way to go.
Our verdict: yes, you can apply lip gloss over lip stain. And work beautifully to revive the shine after a few hours of application.
Some of our favorite lip and cheek stains
Lip and cheek stains are versatile makeup products that deliver healthy color to your cheeks and lips with the natural look you love. You may find multiple options in various beauty brands—and here you have some of our favorites!
Clarins Water Lip Stain
Premium water tint
Clarins Water Lip Stain
This writer just loves all Clarins lip makeup, and this lip stain is no exception. Weightless, long-lasting, and transfer-proof, this formula delivers intense color without any texture on the lips—you’ll feel you have nothing on. No smudging, no budging, and no need for touch-ups: you just put it on in the morning and go live your day. In the meanwhile, the beautifying pigments do their job and the organic raspberry fruit water and aloe vera moisturize the lips and protect them from dehydration.
Flormar Water Lip Stain
Natural-matte color
Flormar Water Lip Stain
This water-based texture creates a non-makeup feel that persuades even those who don’t like makeup. Transfer and kiss-proof, this extremely long-lasting formula stains your lips without ever staining your cups or clothes. Each application coats your lips in a soft natural matte finish that feels comfortable and stays on until it’s removal time. All you have to do to grant the best results is to allow it one minute drying time: easy!
benefit Chachatint Mango-Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain
Vibrant mango shade
benefit Chachatint Mango-Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain
Unlock the unlimited potential of beautifying pigments on your cheeks with this one. The sheer formula blends seamlessly into your cheeks and lips to beautifully finish your makeup and enhance your natural-looking flush. Natural-looking and buildable, the formula is versatile and perfectly adjusts to your favorite looks, from natural to bold. We’re in love with this mango shade!
theBalm Stainiac Lip and Cheek Stain Beauty Queen
Buildable color for cheeks & lips
theBalm Stainiac Lip and Cheek Stain Beauty Queen
A vibrant pink shade and a natural finish may surprisingly be found in the same formula! This one delivers sheer and buildable coverage for the lips and cheeks, is easy to blend, and is ready to upgrade your makeup looks. More than pigments, the formula contains hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate the lips and provide them with all the comfort you need. As the shine fades throughout the day, you may reapply for extra shine and color pay-off.
For more everything-proof makeup, check our post of transfer-proof foundations.
