Which black lipstick is best?
Black lipstick was once a rare makeup choice — a daring option only worn by rebels of standard beauty regimes. These days, social media beauty influencers are proving that nothing is off the table. Black lipstick is still a bold choice, but it is a choice that can embellish most any style.
The key to pulling off such a dark shade is having the right product. Below are some tips for finding the perfect black lipstick and a few of our top product recommendations.
What to know before you buy a black lipstick
It’s no secret that wearing black lipstick exudes confidence. Whether using a stick, balm or liquid formula, embodying the matte or glossy black lip look will take work. The rest of the makeup look should be on par, and touch-ups will be required throughout the day. Lip exfoliators are a great tool to help prevent your lips from drying out when wearing bold lipstick.
Touch-ups
Before purchasing black lipstick, be aware that the look requires some upkeep. Due to the prominent color, smaller smudges are more obvious. Using a lip liner is helpful for preventing the dark color from bleeding onto the skin around the mouth. Using a matte-style black lipstick can also help keep color from bleeding. Carrying the lipstick in a purse or bag is recommended, as it will likely need to be reapplied throughout the day.
Full makeup
Just because black makeup is a bold choice doesn’t mean the rest of your makeup has to be just as dark and intimidating. Balance the look with light makeup elsewhere, unless all around dark makeup is the intention — in which case, go for it.
Form and finish
Figuring out which brand to use is only the first step in buying a new black lipstick. Lipsticks can be sold in stick, cream, liquid, gloss, stain or even pencil. They can have matte, glossy, metallic or natural finishes. The only way to find which one works best is through experimentation, though most of the best black lipsticks are matte.
What to look for in a quality black lipstick
A quality lipstick will be waterproof and long-lasting. Black lipstick tends not to hold up as well as natural lip colors, and even the best brands will need to be reapplied throughout the day. Even so, some black lipsticks will be easier to maintain than others. These lipsticks should be opaque and scentless.
Waterproof
Being applied around the mouth naturally makes lipstick a very vulnerable part of any makeup look. Eating, speaking and even smiling can smudge your lips or leave a line of the waxy substance on your teeth. Waterproof black lipstick will be more resistant to saliva and sweat, helping keep your makeup look pristine and camera-ready throughout the day.
Opacity
Most lipstick shades can be fully applied in two coats. Black lipstick may require a few more coats, as any missed parts of your lips are especially visible in contrast to the dark color. Once completely applied, the makeup should be opaque and smooth.
Scentless
Lipsticks can be scented, often with fruity or sweet aromas. In this case, scents are fine. However, if the makeup is not labeled as scented, it should not have a strong odor. Chemical or plastic odors hint that the lipstick may contain ingredients that probably shouldn’t be applied to your mouth.
How much you can expect to spend on black lipstick
Drugstore lipsticks usually cost under $10. Eco-friendly, designer and vegan lipsticks are more costly, often having a price tag of $35 or more.
Black lipstick FAQ
What other products help black lipstick last?
A. Using lip liner around the lips will keep lipstick from bleeding onto the surrounding skin. Using a makeup setting spray or applying setting powder to your lips after application will also help lengthen the lipstick’s longevity.
Is black lipstick appropriate for work/school?
A. This depends entirely on the dress code at your work or school. Your school should have a handbook on the acceptable dress code. Workplaces may lean either way. Keep your black lipstick from being too overwhelming by pairing it with a more neutral-colored outfit and lighter eye makeup.
What’s the best black lipstick to buy?
Top black lipstick
KVD Beauty Everlasting Liquid Lipstick (Witches)
What you need to know: This is a matte liquid lipstick in a pitch-black shade.
What you’ll love: This liquid lipstick applies like a gloss, but finishes in a matte black. It is both vegan and cruelty-free and contains vitamin E, sunflower seed wax and coconut oil to keep lips moisturized.
What you should consider: Even though it contains moisturizers, the lipstick may cake and flake on lips that are prone to dryness.
Top black lipstick for the money
NYX Professional Makeup Suede Matte Lipstick (Alien)
What you need to know: This velvety matte lipstick features a bold black shade and is also vegan and cruelty-free.
What you’ll love: It is as dark as advertised and very long-lasting, requiring very few touch-ups. This product is not tested on animals and is very affordable for being a cruelty-free product.
What you should consider: The black color may vary when applied, depending on the shade of your natural lips. Some customers describe it as opaque black, while others note hints of purple shades.
Worth checking out
LA Splash Cosmetics Soft Liquid Matte Lipstick (Venom)
What you need to know: A waterproof liquid matte lipstick in solid black.
What you’ll love: This lipstick is long-lasting and truly black in color. People claim it does not transfer or bleed for hours, and it rarely needs touch-ups.
What you should consider: This is a matte lipstick that contains a drying agent, so it may not yield optimal results for individuals prone to dryness.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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