Finding a lipstick that stays put through coffee, lunch, and a full day of meetings is the holy grail. Add "vegan and cruelty-free" to the requirements, and the search gets harder.
We tested 18 vegan lipsticks over 4 weeks, eating, drinking, and living in them. These 6 formulas genuinely lasted — without drying out our lips or requiring constant touch-ups.
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The best vegan lipstick under $10. The creamy matte formula glides on smoothly and does not dry out lips like many matte formulas do. Our testers loved the shade range and comfortable wear.
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If you care about clean ingredients, this is your pick. The coconut oil base keeps lips hydrated while delivering a beautiful, natural-looking color that works on lips and cheeks.
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The best vegan lip gloss we have tested. The non-sticky formula is comfortable to wear, and the shine level is just right — not too much, not too little. Perfect for everyday wear.
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e.l.f. continues to impress with this satin lipstick. The shea butter infusion keeps lips comfortable, and the shade range covers everything from nudes to bold reds. At $6, it is a no-brainer.
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ILIA has created the perfect luxury vegan lipstick. The mango seed butter base keeps lips hydrated all day, while the pigment is rich and opaque in a single swipe. The refillable packaging is a bonus.
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When you need a lipstick that will not budge, this liquid formula delivers. Once it sets, it is virtually transfer-proof. Just make sure your lips are well-hydrated before application.
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Vegan lipsticks contain no animal-derived ingredients. Common non-vegan ingredients in traditional lipsticks include beeswax, carmine (a red pigment made from insects), lanolin, and animal-derived collagen or squalane. Vegan formulas use plant-based alternatives like candelilla wax, jojoba oil, and synthetic or mineral pigments.
Absolutely. In fact, many vegan lipsticks outperform their conventional counterparts. Plant-based waxes and oils can be more hydrating and comfortable on lips. The key is finding the right formula for your preferences — matte, satin, glossy, or liquid.
Start with exfoliated, hydrated lips. Apply a thin layer of lipstick, blot with tissue, then apply a second layer. For extra longevity, set with a translucent powder through a tissue. Avoid oily foods, which break down lipstick faster.
Founder of Beautiful Vegan
Testing cruelty-free skincare since 2009. Committed to helping you find beauty products that work for your skin and the planet.
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