The rise of face masks during the pandemic brought with it many challenges, including finding the perfect lipstick. As someone who loves makeup, I could hardly accept that my favorite bold lipsticks were smudging and fading on my mask before I even reached my destination. I didn’t want to give up lipstick entirely, so I set out to find the best lipstick to wear under a face mask.
Here’s how I discovered the ultimate lip products that stay put, don’t transfer, and keep my lips looking amazing even under a mask.
The problem with regular lipsticks under masks
Wearing lipstick under a face mask is difficult for several reasons:
Wearing lipstick under a face mask is difficult for several reasons:
Smudging: Most regular lipsticks easily smudge onto the fabric of a mask.
Fading: After hours of wearing a mask, the color often fades from the lips.
Dryness: Some long-lasting formulas leave lips dry, cracked, and uncomfortable.
Hygiene concerns: Reapplying lipstick in public, especially during a pandemic, felt unsafe.
I knew I needed a solution that could withstand the friction of the mask while leaving my lips hydrated and bright.
My research process
I started by reading reviews, watching beauty tutorials, and asking friends for recommendations. I wanted a lipstick that met these criteria:
Long-lasting: A formula that could withstand hours of wear without me having to touch up.
Smudge-proof: No stains on my mask or face.
Moisturizing: Comfort was key, especially since my lips tend to be dry.
Bright shades: I didn’t want to compromise on bold, beautiful colors.
Trial and error
I tested different types of lip products to find the best solution. Here’s how they performed:
1. Traditional lipsticks
Traditional lipsticks in stick form were the first to fail. Although they felt creamy and moisturizing, the color would bleed everywhere as soon as I wore a mask. My favorite red lipstick left streaks on my mask, rendering it unusable.
2. Lip Gloss
Lip glosses, while glossy and moisturizing, were an even bigger disaster. The sticky formula stuck to the mask, smeared, and made a mess. I quickly ruled them out.
3. Matte Liquid Lipsticks
Next, I tried matte liquid lipsticks. These showed promise due to their long-lasting formulas. However, many felt too drying and left my lips chapped after a few hours. I knew I had to find a liquid lipstick that balanced longevity with hydration.
4. Lip Tints and Stains
Lip tints and stains became a game changer. These lightweight products stained my lips with vibrant color without transferring to my mask. They felt natural and were perfect for everyday wear, but some lacked the boldness I wanted for special occasions.
The Winners: My Top Picks
After extensive testing, I found a few standout products that met all my requirements:
1. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
This affordable drugstore option became my go-to for all-day wear. The formula dries completely matte, making it smudge-proof and mask-friendly. Although it’s long-lasting, it doesn’t dry out my lips. Plus, with a wide range of shades—from nudes to bold reds—there’s something for everyone.
2. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
Rihanna’s Stunna Lip Paint is a luxurious choice for those who want long-lasting, high-impact color. The lightweight formula glides on smoothly and stays put for hours. It’s perfect for special occasions when you want to make a statement.
3. Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint
For a softer, everyday look, Peripera’s Ink Velvet Lip Tint is fantastic. This Korean beauty product delivers a natural pop of color that won’t rub off on masks. It’s comfortable, hydrating, and comes in many flattering shades.
4. MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lipcolour
MAC’s Powder Kiss line offers a unique formula that feels creamy and weightless on the lips while remaining smudge-proof, making it ideal for anyone who prefers a blurred, soft-focus lip look.
5. Revlon ColorStay Satin Ink
Revlon’s Satin Ink line combines the best of both worlds: a long-lasting formula with a hint of moisture. The satin finish gives lips a subtle sheen without smudging on masks.
Tips for wearing lipstick under a mask
To get the most out of your mask-friendly lipstick, follow these simple tips:
Prep your lips: Start with a gentle exfoliation to remove dry skin, then apply a moisturizing lip balm. This will ensure an even application and prevent dryness.
Use a lip liner: Line and fill your lips with a matching lip liner to create a base for your lipstick. This will help the color stay in place longer.
Blot away excess: After applying lipstick, gently blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess product. This will minimize transfer.
Set with powder: For extra staying power, lightly dust translucent powder over your lipstick, using a tissue as a barrier.
The unexpected benefits of mask-friendly lipsticks
Although the search for the best lipstick to wear under a mask was initially born out of necessity, it brought with it unexpected benefits:
Less time for touch-ups: I no longer have to constantly check and reapply lipstick throughout the day.
More confidence: Knowing that my lipstick will stay flawless under a mask makes me feel more put together.
Versatility: These lipsticks are also great for long work days, dates, or any occasion that requires a lasting formula.
Final thoughts
The search for the best lipstick to wear under a face mask has been a rewarding journey. It has taught me to prioritize quality, comfort, and practicality when choosing my makeup. Even as the world slowly transitions beyond mask-wearing, these mask-safe lipsticks have become a staple in my beauty routine.
Whether you’re looking for a bold red for a special occasion or a subtle shade for everyday wear, there’s a perfect product for you. Enjoy the confidence that comes with long-lasting lipstick and look amazing – with or without a mask!