Not quite a stain or a balm, a lip tint might just be what your makeup routine is missing

If you feel like you can barely keep up with the number of new lip products out there, you’re not alone. Not only are there endless new balms and glosses, but the lip tint has entered the chat, too.

Lest you think “lip tint” and “lip stain” are interchangeable, there is a slight difference between the two. “A lip tint is a softer and lighter version of a lip stain,” says celebrity makeup artist Sean Harris. “It can be glossy in texture and be more hydrating than a traditional stain.” Velvety, matte lip tints are also picking up steam thanks to K-Beauty and this year’s ongoing blurred lip trend.

Looking for some guidance on which lip tints to add to your rotation? Read on for picks from Harris, celebrity makeup artist A Love, and Bazaar’s beauty editors.

Benefit Benetint

For Love, this cult-favorite product (which, fun fact, was first invented by strippers to enhance the color of their nipples) is the first to come to mind. “It’s really liquidy, and it’s very sheer and can be used on lips and cheeks,” says the makeup artist. “The color, the application, everything about it, takes me back to the history of blush and why it was created.”

Number of shades: 8

Finish: Natural

DIOR Addict Lip Tint

“This Dior lip tint is so lightweight and easy to wear—it lasts for hours, and it doesn’t get dry and flaky,” she says. “It’s perfect for those days when you don’t want to touch up your lips in the mirror a million times.” Harris is also a fan, saying, “They give a semi-matte finish that wears all day comfortably.” by Bazaar beauty director Jenna Rosenstein

Number of shades: 8

Finish: Semi-matte

Totally Juicy Lip Tint

If you prefer something more in the vein of a lip gloss, Love also recommends this jelly-like formula from Sephora Collection, which the pro says is “pretty hydrating if you are looking for a dewy moment.” Plus, it offers stain-like color that lasts far longer than a typical gloss.

Number of shades: 9

Finish: High shine

Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil Delight

Rare Beauty figured out the perfect blend of moisturizing comfort and pretty pigment. This popular product “is a great hybrid lip tint and stain all in one,” says Harris. “The formula is glossy but tints lips with long-wearing color.”

Number of shades: 8
Finish: Natural

JuicePop Box Hydrating & Lightweight Oil Lip Tint

This new and TikTok-viral lip tint lives up to the hype, says Harris: “It has a hydrating and long-wearing formula. Lips stay juicy and plump while also having lasting color.” We’re also fans of the cute packaging.

Number of shades: 9

Finish: High-shine

By Lindy Segal