What is a lip stain?
A lip stain is a lightweight lip formula that deposits pigment directly onto your lips for lasting colour. Most formulas are water- or gel-based, which allows them to bind to the outer layer of lip skin rather than sitting on the surface.
Unlike a traditional lipstick or lip gloss – which both rely on wax and oils to adhere – a lip stain absorbs into the lip itself, temporarily "staining" it with colour.
What are the benefits of a lip stain?
So, how does lip stain work in your makeup routine? Think of it as your low-effort, high-payoff lip colour: easy to apply, comfortable to wear, and made to last through the day.
Our Paradise Hyaluron Tint Lip Stain Serum brings the benefits of skincare straight to your lips. It hydrates like a serum and lasts like a lip stain – caring for your lips as it colours them.
Lasts all day
One of the biggest advantages of a lip stain is its staying power, making it a go-to for long-lasting makeup looks. Our hyaluronic acid-infused Paradise Hyaluron Tint Lip Stain Serum delivers up to 12 hours of weightless colour, meaning you can go focus on the demands of your day – without worrying about your lip makeup.
Offers weightless wear with serious hydration
Lip stains give your lips that “barely-there” feel because the colour sinks into, rather than sitting on top of, the lips. Our lip stain achieves this effect through formulation with the moisture-imparting properties and benefits of hyaluronic acid. A serum hybrid, the Hyaluron Tint Lip Stain Serum also contains watery, fresh pigments that bond to your lips without drying, peeling or fading throughout the day.
Works as part of a no-makeup makeup base
A single swipe of lip stain gives your lips a natural wash of colour that mimics your skin’s natural flush. It’s the perfect go-to for days when you want to look put together without committing to a full face of makeup.
Provides colour you can build on
Our lip stain serum formula blends easily, whether you want to layer up for more intensity or keep it light. Choose from our six versatile shades – ranging from soft, wearable pinks to deeper, richer reds – and use our virtual makeup try-on tool to find the right lip stain for you.
Acts as blush too
Don’t limit lip stain to your lips alone: simply dab a little onto the apples of your cheeks to achieve a natural, glowy makeup style – and tie your whole look together.
Removes easily
Lip stain is safe and easy to take off. When you're done, simply soak a cotton pad with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water, then press it to your lips for a few seconds before wiping away – no rubbing or scrubbing required.
How to use a lip stain: 4 lip stain tips for seamless application
Lip stains are versatile enough to wear alone, or layered with other products for a full-face look. Below, we explain how to apply a lip stain – in just four straightforward steps.
1. Prep your lips
Start with clean, hydrated lips. Lightly exfoliate to remove any dry or flaky skin – this creates a smooth surface, so your lip stain absorbs evenly rather than clinging to dry patches and leaving a blotchy finish.
2. Line your lips (optional)
For more definition and a fuller-looking lip, line the outer edge of your lips with a lip liner before applying your stain. Start at the Cupid's bow, follow the natural curve of your upper lip out to each corner, then trace along your lower lip to meet the ends. Our Colour Riche Classic Lip Liner has a creamy formula that glides on without dragging, and is available in eight diverse shades to suit your unique skin tone.
3. Apply your lip tint
Next, apply our Paradise Hyaluron Tint Hydrating Lip Stain Serum. Starting at the centre of your lips, use the plush applicator to sweep colour across your upper lip, then your lower lip, working outward to the corners. Press your lips together a couple of times to blend. You'll be left with an even, glossy finish.
4. Let it dry, then build
Our lip tint goes on glossy but dries down to a soft matte stain. Once dry, apply a second layer to add more intensity as required.
One coat keeps the look natural; two creates a deeper colour payoff.
Or, to keep your lip colour sheer while topping up hydration and shine, layer with Plump Ambition Hyaluronic Acid Lip Oil Crystal Clear 101. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and tri-peptides, it helps hydrate and care for lips while adding a glossy finish.
Now that you know how to apply lip stains, keep building your effortless makeup routine with our guide to creating glass skin makeup.
