15 Best Expert-Recommended Drugstore Lip Products

Protect your lips with the most gentle formulas without spending a great deal.

Reviewed by Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda, Fashion & Beauty Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda Daisi Jo Pollard SepulvedaFashion & Beauty facebook_iconlinkedin_iconyoutube_iconinsta_icon
Written by Baishali Bhattacharya, MA (English) Baishali Bhattacharya MA (English) linkedin_icon
Edited by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijani Roy Chowdhury MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijita De MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Last Updated on
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Lips are the most delicate and have the softest skin than the rest of your face, and that is why they are often prone to getting chapped, flaky, and dry easily. This is where the best drugstore lip products come into the picture. Also, overexposure to the sun and environmental aggressors causes pigmentation. But, to address all these concerns and get soft, smooth lips, you don’t have to dig a hole in your pocket. Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda, a fashion influencer and model, says, “I always recommend having a variety of affordable drugstore lip products on hand for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a subtle tint, vibrant color, or intensive hydration, this roundup has you covered without breaking the bank. So, keep scrolling to check out the 15 highest-rated drugstore lip products!

Top Picks
CHECK PRICE
Best Lip Gloss: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss
Price on Amazon
Best Lip Lacquer: l.f Lip Lacquer
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best Non-Sticky Gloss: Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss
Price on Amazon
Best Transfer-Proof: Rimmel Provocalips Kiss Pross Lip Colour
Price on Amazon
Best Multipurpose Lip Balm: Smith’s Rosebud Salve
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best Satin Finish: Milani Amore Satin Matte Lip Crème
Price on Amazon
Best Finish: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick
Price on Amazon
Best SPF: Neutrogena Revitilazing Lip Balm
Price on Amazon
Best Lip Scrub: Chapstick Total Hydration Natural Lip Scrub
Price on Amazon
Price on Walmart
Best Hydrating: Palladio Lip Stain
Price on Amazon

15 Best Drugstore Lip Products That Are Affordable

1.Best Lip Gloss:NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss Image: Nyx Professional Makeup

The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss is a creamy, non-sticky lip gloss that offers a smooth and silky application to your delicate lips. It melts onto your lips, providing sheer to medium coverage. It is available in a wide shade range. Glide your favorite shade and get kissable lips instantly. This product has received positive reviews on several online forums for its long-lasting coverage and beautiful shade.

Key Ingredients: Mineral Oil, Beeswax

Pros

  • Non-sticky
  • Featherproof
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Creamy

Cons

  • Might not be long-lasting

2.Best Lip Lacquer:e.l.f Lip Lacquer

The e.l.f Lip Lacquer is a lightweight formula enriched with vitamin E. It moisturizes the lips and delivers pigmented color with amazing shine. The gorgeous bold and vibrant color options can be worn alone or layered on lipsticks. If you are looking for a toxin-free option, this will be your best choice. This product is not tested on animals, making it a perfect option for people looking for cruelty-free formulas.

Skin Type: Normal | Color: Bubbles | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 11.51 inches | Weight: 0.64 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Shiny finish
  • Affordable option

Cons

  • Sticky formula
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 24,765 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

3.Best Non-Sticky Gloss:Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss

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4.4
Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss Image: Maybelline New York

The Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss is everything you need to look glam during those golden hours. This hyaluronic acid-infused gloss gets bronzed and makes your lips look luscious and fuller. Moreover, the XL wand of the lip gloss contours your lips and adds a high-shine effect in just a single swipe. Achieve non-sticky, fully lifted lips instantly with this celebrity-endorsed product that additionally offers precise application.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Color: SUN

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid

Pros

  • Non-sticky
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Allergy-tested
  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Available in 5 shades
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • None
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss
Best Lip Gloss
e.l.f Lip Lacquer
Best Lip Lacquer
Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss
Best Non-Sticky Gloss
Skin Type- Normal Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal
Color- Bubbles SUN
Dimensions- 1.6 x 1.6 x 11.51 inches -
Weight- 0.64 Ounces.-
Rating
Reviews-24,765-
Price-$3$7.98

4.Best Transfer-Proof:Rimmel Provocalips Kiss Proof Lip Color

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4.3
Rimmel Provocalips Kiss Pross Lip Colour Image: Rimmel

Who doesn’t want a kiss-proof lip colour? The Rimmel London Provocalips Kiss Proof Lip Colour is a lightweight formula that delivers a glossy finish for 16 long hours. The food-proof and transfer-proof formula make it a die-hard favorite among makeup enthusiasts. Several reviews on Amazon highly praise this product for its staying power.

Skin Type: All | Color: Wish Upon a Berry | Product Dimensions: 0.57 x 5.12 x 0.57 inches | Weight: 0.64 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Castor Seed Oil, Beeswax

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Dual-ended
  • Food-proof
  • Transfer-proof
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • May be a bit drying

protip_icon ProTip
Apply concealer to the edges of your lips. It will act as a lip primer and also stop spills and smudging at the edge.

5.Best Multipurpose Lip Balm:Smith’s Rosebud Salve

If your lips are dry and chapped, the Smith’s Rosebud Salve is the one for you. Its comfortable formula prevents dryness and moisturizes the lips, making them smooth and soft. It is a multipurpose balm that can be used for chapped skin to relieve dryness and soothe irritation. It is available in a cute little tin packaging.

Color: Pink | Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.8 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Pure White Petrolatum (Surgical Grade), Cotton Seed Oil, Trade Secret Blend of Essential Oils, Botanicals

Pros

  • Multipurpose
  • Non-drying
  • Cruelty-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Can be used on the skin

Cons

  • Contains petroleum
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 1,713 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

6.Best Satin Finish:Milani Amore Satin Matte Lip Crème

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4.3
Milani Amore Satin Matte Lip Crème Image: Milani

The Milani Amore Satin Matte Lip Creme hydrates your lips and offers them a matte finish. It has a long-lasting buttery-soft formula that feels comfortable on the lips. The matte lipstick formula is infused with a built-in primer that hides lip lines and imparts smoother-looking lips. The lip creme is enriched with shea butter and soybean oil that prevent moisture loss and smoothen out your lip texture. Doubled up as a nourishing treatment, this liquid lipstick formula delivers a refreshing sensation to your lips.

Skin Type: All | Color: Satin

Key Ingredients: Shea butter and Soybean oil

Pros

  • Cruelty-free formula
  • Comfortable wear
  • Lightweight
  • Matte formula
  • Long-lasting wear
  • Infused with a built-in primer
  • Easy to apply
  • Available in many colors

Cons

  • Not transfer-free

7.Best Finish:Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick

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4.3
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick, High Impact Lipcolor with Moisturizing Creamy Formula, Infused with Vitamin E and Avocado Oil in Plum / Berry, Sassy Mauve (463) Mauves & Trends Sassy Mauve Image: Revlon
Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lipstick

is an ultra-moisturizing formula that smoothly glides over the lips and settles in a creamy finish. The rich pigmentation delivers true color while laying lightweight on your lips. This affordable lipstick offers an extensive shade range and is also available in pearl, matte, and glass shine finishes.

Color: Sassy Mauve (463) | Skin Type: Combination | Product Dimensions: 0.75 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches | Weight: 0.14 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Vitamin E

Pros

  • Available in 4 finishes
  • Lightweight
  • Creamy and smooth finish
  • Available in 130+ shades

Cons

  • Blotchy

8.Best SPF:Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm

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4.3
Neutrogena Revitilazing Lip Balm Image: Neutrogena

The Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm is the perfect restorative formula your lips need. Apart from moisturizing the lips, it also protects the lips from harmful sun rays and sunburns with a broad spectrum of SPF 20. It softens the lips, imparts a plumping effect, and improves their texture while adding a gentle tint. The pleasant scent of the lip balm makes it an all-time favorite. It is available in various tinted shades and hence can be your go-to for all occasions.

Skin Type: Dry | Number of Items: 1 | Item Weight: 0.04 Pounds

Key Ingredients: Ion2Complex

Pros

  • SPF protection
  • Available in tinted shades
  • Creamy texture
  • Pleasant smell

Cons

  • May have a stinging sensation

9.Best Lip Scrub:Chapstick Total Hydration Natural Lip Scrub

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4.3
Chapstick Total Hydration Natural Lip Scrub Image: Chapstick

You could put on a great lip gloss or lipstick, but nothing would look good if your lips aren’t healthy and smooth. This conditioning lip scrub from Chapstick exfoliates the lips, removes dry skin, and reveals smooth and soft lips. It is formulated with naturally sourced ingredients that are gentle on the lips. The refreshing peppermint flavor makes it a favorite scrub.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 1.47 x 2.94 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.26 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Sugar Crystals, Maracuja Oil, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter and Vitamin E

Pros

  • Pleasant flavor
  • Naturally sourced ingredients
  • Easy to apply
  • Portable jar

Cons

  • May leave a greasy feeling

10.Best Hydrating:Palladio Lip Stain

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3.5
Palladio Lip Stain Image: Palladio

The Palladio Lip Stain applies as gorgeously as it looks. The chiseled tip outlines and fills the lips with highly pigmented, long-lasting color, and delivers precise application. It is formulated with aloe and coconut oil to hydrate your lips. Apply this hydrating lipstick only on product-free, oil-free lips to get a bold and natural finish.

Key Ingredients: Limonene, Aloe vera, Coconut Oil

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Smudge-proof
  • Buildable coverage
  • Paraben-free
  • Botanical extracts
  • Chisel precise tip

Cons

  • Difficult to remove

11.Best Lightweight:COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain

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4.1
COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain, Flirty Nude 435, 0.09 Ounce (Packaging May Vary) Water-Based Lip Color with Precision Applicator 0.09 Ounce (Pack of 1) Flirty Nude 435 Image: Covergirl

The COVERGIRL Outlast Lipstain is made of water-based colorants that deliver a natural, lightweight flush of color. The moisturizing formula smoothes the lips and provides luscious coverage. The pen-like precision applicator lines the lips properly, making them look fuller.

Skin Type: All | Color: Flirty Nude 435 | Product Dimensions: 0.6 x 0.6 x 4.35 inches | Weight: 0.48 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Water/EAU, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Sorbitol, Polysorbate 80, PEG-150, Phenoxyethanol, Flavor/Aroma, PVP, Potassium Sorbate, Triethanolamine, Acacia Senegal Gum, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Benzophenone-4, Sodium Saccharin, Propylparaben, Sodium Hyaluronate

Pros

  • True color
  • Soft glossy finish
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • Doesn’t last long

protip_icon Caution
Preservatives, metals, dye solvents, dyes, and colors (eosin, carmine), among other ingredients, can cause allergic reactions. To identify the precise allergen, doing the patch test is a must.

12.Best Nourishing:Physicians Formula Organic Wear Nourishing Lipstick

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3.8
Physicians Formula Organic Wear Nourishing Lipstick Image: Physicians Formula

This ultra-hydrating formula from Physicians settles into a velvety-smooth finish with a great pop of color. It is enriched with nourishing oils and antioxidants that moisturize the lips and protect them. The blend of organic shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil instantly gives you soft and smooth lips.

Skin Type: Combination | Color: Spice | Product Dimensions: 0.83 x 0.83 x 2.85 inches | Weight: 0.8 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Organic Shea butter, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E

Pros

  • Easy to apply
  • Smooth formula
  • High impact color

Cons

  • Shades may differ in reality

13.Best For Dry Lips:Aquaphor Lip Repair

If nothing seems to heal your dry lips, get The Aquaphor Lip Repair. Infused with shea butter, chamomile essence, and nourishing vitamins, it soothes chapped lips and immediately relieves lips from dryness. It is gently formulated for sensitive lips.

Skin Type: Sensitive | Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 10 inches | Weight: 1.59 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Chamomile Essence, Shea Butter, Vitamin E

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Suitable for sensitive lips
  • Immediate relief

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Remember
Lipstick may rub off if you do not exfoliate your lips and do not remove your lip balm before applying lipstick.

14.Best Softening:Vaseline Lip Therapy Rosy Lips

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4.6
Vaseline Lip Therapy Lip Balm Tin, Rosy Lips, 0.6 Ounce Image: Vaseline

Vaseline has been the healer of dry lips since forever. This Lip Therapy seals in moisture and relieves dull, dry, and cracked lips. Its creamy formula soothes and softens dry lips, making them look and feel super healthy. The sheer rosy tint on the lips is like cherries on blossoms. The tin case is easy to use and travel with.

Color: Pink | Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.05 x 0.65 x 2.05 inches | Weight: 0.48 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Rosa Damascena Oil 

Pros

  • Non-sticky formula
  • Sheer and natural shade
  • Non-greasy
  • Clinically proven
  • Travel-friendly
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Overpowering scent

15.Best Long-Lasting:Rimmel 1000 Kisses Lip Liner

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4.3

No matter which lip gloss or lipstick you use, it does smear if you don’t apply a lip liner. The Rimmel 1000 Kisses Lip Liner glides smoothly on the lips for its creamy texture. It contours to the lip shape effortlessly without any dragging or pulling. The pigmented color blends easily and lasts up to 8 hours easily.

Skin Type: All | Color: 004 Indian Pink | Product Dimensions: 0.5 x 0.5 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.14 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Hydrogenated Palm Oil

Pros

  • Available in many shades
  • Blends well
  • Rich pigmentation

Cons

  • May be drying
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

What To Look For In A Drugstore Lip Product

There might be a lot of factors you wouldn’t want to compromise on, even if it’s a drugstore product. Here are some of the things you must look for in a drugstore lip product.

  • Texture: The texture of a good drugstore lip product must be smooth and creamy to avoid tugging and pulling. Finding the right texture that feels soft but not sticky can be tricky.
  • Pigmentation: Drugstore lip products are available from sheer to medium pigmentation to richly pigmented. While subtle sheer shades can give you a natural tint to brighten your appearance, high pigmented shades can give you the lipstick feels with a lot of moisture. So, make your pick carefully on what shades you want.
  • Ingredients: Know your skin type and choose your drugstore lip product based on that. If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating lip product. Avoid fragrant/paraben-infused lip products if you have sensitive skin. Also, always choose dermatologist-tested and expert-recommended formulas that are safe for your skin.

Now, you surely have a list of drugstore lip product substitutes for your high-end brands. They are cost-saving and provide you with similar results in terms of quality. All of them come in different shades and finishes. Know what your lips love, and pick your favorite drugstore lip product and be ready to shine.

Infographic: 6 Ingredients To Look For In A Drugstore Lip Product

From vibrant lip colors to hydrating balms, drugstore shelves offer a wide array of options. But, not all products are worth your money. Some contain irritants that can dry out the lips and trigger sensitivities. Thus, knowing what potent nourishing elements you should look for is important when buying a lip product. In the infographic below, we have listed 6 ingredients that are beneficial for your lips. Check it out.

6 Ingredients To Look For In A Drugstore Lip Product (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Drugstore lip products are all the rage right now! These lip products can help in restoring the natural moisture of your lips, especially catering to dry areas. They also safeguard your lips from external aggressors including UV or sunrays, and harmful pollutants. Try the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Butter Gloss for a smooth and buttery texture that comes in various shades. Opt for Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss for a high-shine bronze effect and the Milani Amore Satin Matte Lip Crème for a satin-matte finish with long-lasting color. Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda adds, “I keep the Maybelline Lifter Gloss and NYX Butter Gloss in constant rotation for a shiny pop of gloss. They are my secret to keeping my lips kissably soft all winter long. Consider these in your skin care routine for lush lips without the lofty price tag.” From lip glosses to lipsticks and lip balms, the drugstore products offer smooth application and nourish your lips thoroughly. While choosing these products, you should avoid the ones that have a stinging sensation after use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lip balm used for?

Lip balm reduces soreness and dryness in the lips. They also protect your lips from harmful environmental aggressors and UV rays.

What is the best for dry lips?

Lip balm and lip creams are best for dry lips. The Smith’s Rosebud Salve relieves dryness and soothes irritation.

Is Vaseline good for your lips?

Yes, Vaseline works wonders on dry and chapped lips. The Vaseline Lip Therapy Rosy Lips seals in moisture, relieves dullness, and smoothens cracked lips.

Is coconut oil good for your lips?

Yes, coconut oil has moisturizing properties and keeps your skin soft, smooth, and supple.

Can lips get bigger naturally?

Yes, well-hydrated lips appear fuller and plumper. Use a nourishing lip balm to keep your lips moisturized and nourished.

Can I use a lip balm every day?

Yes. Use your preferred lip balm daily to keep your lips moisturized.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Baishali Bhattacharya, the author of this article, is certified in makeup artistry. Her expertise in makeup helped her to choose the best drugstore lip products for her readers. She has conducted thorough research and filtered out the top-rated lip products to make your job easier. These products will help your lips appear beautiful and full. They keep your lips soft, supple, and nourished without breaking your bank.

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Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda
Daisi Jo Pollard SepulvedaFashion Influencer
Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda is an American entrepreneur, model, philanthropist, and a staunch advocate of self-love and body positivity. She was born with a deformity in her left eye but did not let that deter her from realizing her dreams.

Read full bio of Daisi Jo Pollard Sepulveda
Baishali Bhattacharya
Baishali BhattacharyaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.

Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor
Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.

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Srijita De
Srijita DeCommerce Writer
Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.

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