Lip stains have surged in popularity in 2025, becoming a staple in beauty routines worldwide. Their appeal lies in delivering long-lasting colour with a natural finish, aligning with the current trend towards effortless beauty. They offer a carefree alternative to high-maintenance lipsticks, perfect for summer days, gym bags, and busy mornings. TikTok tutorials and GRWM videos have only accelerated their rise, cementing them as must-haves for a generation leaning into low-effort, high-impact beauty.
Why are they so popular?
The stain has quickly garnered a cult following for its ability to provide a ‘just-bitten’ flush that lasts all day without the heaviness of traditional lipsticks (or the need to reapply). Their lightweight, transfer-resistant formulas offer a low-maintenance solution for those seeking a natural yet polished look. The rise of lip stains is also attributed to their versatility and the growing demand for products that combine beauty with functionality.
Where did they come from?
Lip stains have a rich history dating back to ancient civilisations. In Ancient Greece, women used crushed berries to tint their lips, favouring the natural appearance and longevity of the colour. This preference for a subtle, enduring lip colour has persisted through the ages, culminating in today’s modern formulations that offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality. But the lip stain trend has been amplified by endorsements from celebrities and influencers. Billie Eilish’s use of a peel-off lip stain on TikTok garnered significant attention, showcasing the product’s effectiveness and ease of use. Similarly, Nicola Peltz Beckham has expressed her preference for lip stains, citing their natural finish and long-lasting wear as key benefits.
Where to shop the best lip stains
Wonderskin Makeup Wonder Blading Lip Stain Masque
Known for its Peel and Reveal Lip Stain, which offers a peel-off application for precise, long-lasting color.
Sacheu Beauty Lip Liner Stay-n Peel Off Lip Liner
Their Stay-N Lip Liner has gained popularity for its innovative formula that combines the precision of a liner with the staying power of a stain.
Stila Calligraphy Lip Stain
The Stila Calligraphy Lip Stain delivers bold, precise colour with a feather-light touch—like an inkwell for your lips, designed to last all day without smudging.
Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Tint
A cult classic, Benetint offers a sheer, rosy flush that can be layered for intensity, beloved for its dual-use simplicity.
Clarins Water Lip Stain
Ultra-light and buildable, this water-like formula delivers a kiss of colour that feels like nothing on the lips but lasts through it all.
Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain
Rihanna’s take on the trend combines a juicy tint with serious hydration, leaving lips looking glossy before fading into a lasting stain.
Dior Addict No-Transfer Lip Tint
With 10 shades in total, this easy-to-apply lip tint gives a matte finish that lasts all day.
Pixi Lip Blush Stain Pen
Shaped like a felt-tip pen, this tint works well as both a long-lasting lip colour and smudge-proof lip liner.
