I Hoard Pink Lipsticks Like It's My Job—These 11 Are By Far the Best
Flattering and romantic.
One of the images etched into my childhood memory is my mom carefully applying her vibrant lipstick in the vanity mirror. Eight-year-old me was mesmerized by how effortlessly she swiped the color on—and by the idea of one day coating my lips in the best pink lipsticks, too.
My mom taught me everything I know about applying lipstick, but most importantly, she taught me that my lipstick shade is more than just a fun color. For example, reds exude confidence and sensuality, browns have an effortless “cool-girl energy,” and neutrals extend grace and sophistication. But in my personal experience, the best pink lipstick shades do all of the above—and look flattering on all skin tones.
To make choosing your perfect shade more intuitive, I tested dozens of tubes and landed on the 11 best pink lipsticks—just in time for Valentine’s Day. I also spoke with two leading beauty experts about choosing the right formula and shade, when to wear pink lipstick, and how to best apply it.
Keep reading to discover my top picks, ranging from luxury brands like Dolce & Gabbana and Valentino to affordable choices from Maybelline and MAC.
Best Pink Lipsticks
- Best Pink Lipstick Overall: Haus Labs Le Monster Lip Crayon
- Best Glossy Pink Lipstick: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shine Gloss Stick
- Best Everyday Pink Lipstick: Dolce & Gabbana My Juicy Sheer Lip Stylo
- Best Affordable Pink Lipstick: Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
- Best Under-the-Radar Pink Lipstick: Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow
- Best Luxury Pink Lipstick: Valentino Spike Valentino Buttery Matte Lipstick
- Best Long-Lasting Pink Lipstick: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick
The Haus Labs Le Monster Lip Crayon in Cerise Matte blew me away with its rich pigment. The precision-tip applicator made applying the lippie a breeze, while the initially buttery formula glided on smoothly. Within a few seconds, the striking orange-toned pink dried down to a shine-free, 100 percent kiss-proof finish—I tried it.
Finish: Matte and vibrant
Texture: Smooth and lightweight
Type: Crayon
What I Love: Precision-tip applicator; Transfer-proof
What I Don't: Can be a bit drying if not layered with lip balm
Review for MC: “If you’re looking for a bold pink lip that lasts, this is it. The fine-tip crayon defines the pout, and you don’t have to worry about the vibrant fuchsia transferring to napkins—or during kisses.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
For an irresistibly juicy finish, I reached for the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stick in Is It Fussy. The goof-proof lipstick can be applied without a mirror, hydrates my lips, and never feels sticky. It’s perfect for a fresh and sweet effect, complementing just about any beauty look.
Finish: Lustrous and sheer
Texture: Dewy and cushioned
Type: Stick
What I Love: Foolproof application; Revives the lips
What I Don't: Must re-apply throughout the day for the same initial look
Review for MC: “I gravitate towards natural beauty looks—and the Fenty Gloss Bomb Stick fits right in line with my aesthetic. The dewy finish revives my dry lips, adding luminosity and a touch of color to the face.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
The Dolce & Gabbana My Juicy Sheer Lip Stylo is my new favorite everyday lipstick, featuring a rosy pink hue that enhances a range of skin tones. While the nourishing, high-shine formula is enough to make me swoon, the luxe packaging adds glamour to my vanity.
Finish: Radiant and translucent
Texture: Slick and lightweight
Type: Stick
What I Love: Chic packaging; Flattering hue; Conditioning formula
What I Don't: Must wear a few layers for a deeper hue
Review for MC: “Elevating your daily life can start with the smallest details—even your lipstick. This stunning Dolce & Gabbana lippie feels like a little luxury, from its elegant packaging to the rosy hue that flatters a range of skin tones.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
I’ve been wearing the Maybelline Super Stay Lipstick since its inception in 2017. Now, as a beauty editor, the Pathfinder pink earned my stamp of approval, delivering instant color payoff and a budge-proof finish. You can even ditch your lip liner thanks to the sculpted applicator sponge.
Finish: Shine-free and bold
Texture: Begins moussy and finishes as a light powder
Type: Liquid
What I Love: Low price point; Extended wear
What I Don't: Appears patchy if not touched up throughout the day
Review for MC: “I’ve been wearing this Maybelline liquid lipstick formula for nine years thanks to its staying power, bold color, and wallet-friendly price point. What’s not to love?” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as falling in love with a low-key brand before everyone else does—and, you heard it here first: Dear Dahlia is on the rise. The Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Felicia delivers a sultry pout in a juicy petal pink hue, making it one of my new favorites.
Finish: Glossy and sheer
Texture: Silky and lightweight
Type: Stick
What I Love: Renewed lips; Elegant packaging; Unfussy application
What I Don't: Easily transferable
Review for MC: “The Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow instantly gave me irresistibly luscious lips—so believe me, it’s only a matter of time until you’ll start to see it everywhere.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
“Buttery” and “matte” aren’t two words you usually hear together—but the Valentino Spike Lipstick in Pink Is Punk brings both to life. The magenta shade coats the lips like satin, outlasting food and drink. One swipe is all you need to cover the lips in a vivid color.
Finish: Matte and smooth
Texture: Velvety and rich
Type: Stick
What I Love: Creamy formula; High-impact color; Unmistakable packaging
What I Don't: Higher price point
Review for MC: “If you’re looking to splurge on luxury beauty, don’t skip the Valentino Spike Lipstick. The decadent formula glides on seamlessly, making this eclectic pink hue one of my favorites.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
Whether you have a hot date or simply live a busy schedule, a long-lasting lipstick is essential. The Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Pinktini offered me both confidence and convenience, never smearing onto cups, clothing, or skin. Better yet, the Barbie-like pink felt creamy while staying matte.
Finish: Full-coverage and matte
Texture: Hydrating and creamy
Type: Liquid
What I Love: Smudge-proof; Angled applicator; Rich color
What I Don't: Difficult to remove at the end of the day
Review for MC: “This is the second color I've tried of the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick—and it’s just as good as the first. It’s hands-down the comfiest long-lasting liquid lipstick in my makeup bag.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
There’s a reason people continue to flock towards the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk—and yes, it’s worth the hype. The Nude pink looks stunning on a range of skin tones, easily amplified by a warm brown lip liner. If you’re craving a deeper shade, secure Pillow Talk Medium for a berry-tinted pink.
Finish: Matte
Texture: Velvety
Type: Stick
What I Love: Buildable; Hydrating; Eye-catching packaging
What I Don't: Rubs off on dishes, clothing, and skin
Review for MC: “Pillow Talk is that girl, showing up in countless makeup bags and vanity drawers. So, just do yourself a favor and snag it already. It's creamy and moisturizing too, making a great winter lipstick option.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
The Ilia Lip Sketch Hydrating Crayon in Genre has become a staple in my makeup collection, offering a brownish pink that’s layerable, long-wearing, and smoothing. The precision-tip pencil makes it simple to wear as an all-over wash of color or simply to line the lips.
Finish: Buttery and matte
Texture: Weightless
Type: Crayon
What I Love: Neutral tone; Fuller-looking lips; Liner-to-lipstick usage
What I Don't: Needs sharpening to restore a precise tip
Review for MC: “I received the Ilia Lip Crayon as a gift and instantly knew it would become one of my new go-tos. Since then, I’ve worn it at least once a week and fear I’ll never go back.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
For a true bubblegum-pink lipstick, look no further than Urban Decay. The Vice Hydrating Lipstick in Gridlock melted onto my lips upon application, revealing an attention-grabbing pout that didn’t peel or crack thanks to infused aloe vera and avocado oil.
Finish: Matte
Texture: Velvety smooth
Type: Stick
What I Love: Electric color; Skincare-infused benefits
What I Don't: Packaging can be difficult to close
Review for MC: “When you think of a pink lipstick, the Urban Decay Vice Lipstick comes to mind. Not only does it offer unparalleled color, but soothing oils condition the lips.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
I embraced full girlhood energy with the MAC Frost Lipstick in Bombshell. The shimmering rose pink was soft and flirty, reflecting the light with every movement. While it sparkles beautifully, its semi-glossy finish feels more like a creamy powder than a slick gloss.
Finish: Radiant and frosted
Texture: Sheer and delicate
Type: Stick
What I Love: Pearlescent sheen; Soft pink hue
What I Don't: Requires extra layering for a stronger payoff
Review for MC: “The 2000s called and they want their metallic lipstick back—but I’m not handing it over. The MAC Frost Lipstick is the perfect companion to the girliest beauty looks yet.” — Ruby Ford-Dunker, Contributing Beauty Writer
How Do I Choose the Best Pink Lipstick Shade for My Skin Tone?
While personal preference leads the charge, "the right pink lipstick comes down to undertone and depth," says Ulta Beauty Pro Team Member Mat Wulff. Head of Global Artistry for Urban Decay Steve Kassajikian says lighter skin tones should reach for soft, baby pinks and fuchsias with blue bases, while medium complexions benefit from "raspberry, cranberry or warmer shades." For deeper skin, "magenta, deep plumy pinks, or bold fuchsia shades" are the way to go, he concludes.
What Should I Look for in a Pink Lipstick Formula?
The formula you select determines the final finish. A balm provides a sheer hue that typically requires frequent reapplication, while a satin/cream lipstick offers hydration and "full pigmented color," says Kassajikian. If you're looking for a striking lippie that will last all day with minimal touch-ups, he recommends a liquid or matte formula.
How Do I Wear a Pink Lipstick?
From office meetings to parties, your pink lipstick mood changes. "For work or daytime, I recommend softer pinks or nude pinks," says Kassajikian. For a date night, though? The Head of Global Artistry for Urban Decay gravitates towards berry or dusty rose colors. Bold fuchsias and striking hot pinks are "perfect for nights out and statement moments," affirms Wulff.
How Do I Apply Pink Lipstick?
Sheer, glossy pinks can be forgiving, allowing you to apply it "straight from the bullet or balm," says Wulff. While lip liner is optional, it’s recommended when wearing a highly pigmented shade to control the product. Kassajikian suggests using a lip liner to "shape and create a solid outline," then applying the lipstick from the center out. "This ensures a perfect and symmetrical lip application every time," he says. For bold mattes, Wulff even preps with a balm to inject hydration.
How We Tested
Our testing process merged long-time editor favorites with new discoveries. We asked the Marie Claire team to share their favorite pink lipsticks, and tapped professional makeup artists to learn about their top picks. From there, we used reviews and online sentiment to select our top contenders.
We evaluated each on ease of use, texture, pigment payoff, and lasting power. We also considered packaging and versatility. Our resulting pool comprised the above top picks on the market.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet The Experts
Steve’s obsession with makeup dates back as long as he can remember. Born in Jordan and raised in Orange County, CA, he began playing with cosmetics before he learned how to speak, watching obsessively as his mother put on her makeup.
From there, Steve got his start in the industry in 2006, working the Benefit Cosmetics counter at his local Macy’s department store. Two years later Urban Decay was launched at the store, and Steve caught the attention of a recruiter who brought him into the fold.
Steve has since been with Urban Decay for nearly 17 years, and in his current role, oversees and guides the artistry direction for the brand, leads a team to execute the makeup looks in all campaigns, helps with PR and media initiatives and appearances, supports launching the brand globally, hosts seminars and master classes, etc.
On a more personal note, Steve describes himself as a go-getter and loving free spirit. As a cancer survivor of stage IV Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the young age of 23, he always looks for the positive in life.
Mat Wulff is a celebrity makeup artist based in Dallas and LA, bringing 14 years of experience to everything from red-carpet glam to everyday beauty. A true jack of all trades, he’s also a skilled hairstylist and had a passion for creative directing. Mat Wulff has been an Ulta Beauty Pro Team Member since 2023.
