Discover Our Expert Pick of The Best Lip Stains

Meet The new wave of lip colour that won’t quit

Say goodbye to smudges, smears and constant top-ups—today’s lip stains do the hard work for you. These next-gen formulas offer all-day colour without the dryness or drama.

There’s a time and a place for lipstick. A gala. A photo op. A dinner where no one’s actually eating. But for everything else? You want something low-maintenance that stays put. Something that survives oat milk lattes, sandwich lunches and spontaneous snogs. That’s where lip stains come in.

Less drying than the versions you might remember from the 2010s, the new wave of stains gives that natural flush of colour with none of the faff. Whether you want a polished, pulled-together finish or a soft, just-bitten effect, they’ve quietly become the go-to for people who don’t want to think about their lip colour once it’s on.

Of course, stains aren’t new. The original source? Crushed beetles. Specifically, the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus)—used to produce carmine dye. Revered by the Aztecs and Mayans, this potent red pigment travelled to Europe in the 1500s and quickly became a luxury item, prized for its rich colour and serious staying power. Fast forward a few centuries and we were all dabbing on Benetint—originally made as a nipple tint for an exotic dancer, FYI. That was fifty years ago. The category has grown up since.

Today’s formulas are cleverer, comfier and often more fun to apply. Here’s what’s worth knowing (and buying).

WONDERSKIN WONDER BLADING LIP STAIN

£18, available at Boots and Beauty Bay

The blue peel-off one that’s everywhere.

This is the viral lip stain you’ve definitely seen: you paint on an electric blue masque, mist with activator, wait, then peel. What’s left is a long-lasting tint in shades like Whimsical (soft rosewood) and Lovely (neutral pink). It doesn’t transfer, doesn’t smudge, and honestly doesn’t budge.

Best for: Long days, weddings, or anything that needs serious staying power

What to know: Prep your lips, give them a gentle scrub with a toothbrush, this can cling to dryness

Hood verdict: A bit of a faff, but delivers like nothing else once mastered. Lasted till our mid-afternoon cuppa.

DEWY KOREA ORIGINAL RUB OFF LIP STAIN

£12, available at trydewy.com

Glossy, hydrating, and buildable.

More balm than makeup, this subtle stain gives a sheer flush with a dewy finish. It layers well and feels nourishing, so it’s perfect if you like the idea of lipstick but hate how it feels.

Best for: An everyday, barely-there look

What to know: You’ll need to reapply if you want it bolder—but it fades evenly

Hood verdict: Fuss-free and genuinely lovely. Made it through lunch.

SACHEU LIP LINER STAY-N PEEL-OFF STAIN

£12, Amazon UK

The liner with longevity.

This peel-off lip liner is a clever way to get definition without topping up every two hours. Paint it on, let it dry, then peel to reveal a tinted outline that lasts most of the day.

Best for: Defining lips without the weight of product

What to know: Can be a little drying and tricky to master

Hood verdict: If it’s good enough for Billie Eilish, it’s good enough for us. Sells out super fast so patience is required.

Hood’s Final Word on Lip Stains

Modern lip stains are a far cry from the parched formulas of the past. These new iterations bring pigment, polish and practicality—with finishes to suit every mood and comfort levels that keep you coming back. Whether you’re team peel-off or prefer a dewy tint, one thing’s clear: the stain game is strong.