15 Best Lipsticks for Summer 2025: Long-Lasting Color and Hydration

L'Oréal Rouge Signature I Captivate earned its high 8.5/10 rating in our testing for delivering vibrant, highly pigmented color with a barely-there, lightweight feel at just $6.20. We found the precise applicator makes lining and filling effortless, and the formula feels comfortable on lips while offering impressive longevity. During our review some shades leaned more purple than expected and it isn’t totally smudge-proof, so you may need a quick touch-up after eating. If you want bold color without the weight, this is a standout bargain.

Chanel ROUGE ALLURE L’EXTRAIT gives a luxurious, high-intensity pigment and a creamy satin texture that impressed us in testing, but the $58 price and upkeep lower its practical appeal. We found the color incredibly rich during our review, yet the proprietary refill system — which forces full-package purchases before refills — makes ongoing costs high. Some users also report the formula can feel dry over extended wear despite the satin finish. If you want decadent color and texture and don’t mind the expense, it’s a splurge.

Poutder Lip Mousse feels airy and comfortable on the lips, and in our testing we appreciated the hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that give a hydrating, mousse-like finish. We found the formula is buildable and sits lightweight with a matte look, but our experience shows it needs frequent reapplication after eating or drinking and the small liquid applicator can make full coverage fiddly. During our review transfer was also an issue, so it's lovely for quick touch-ups but not the most long-wearing pick.

In our testing, Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Thrill Seeker impressed as a budget-friendly pick at $5.34 with punchy, single-swipe color — it earned a 7.5/10 for pigmentation and staying power. We found the liquid-matte applicator gives precise lines and the formula holds up to eating and drinking, ideal for summer. During our review the downsides were clear: it can feel sticky after drying and often needs oil-based removers. If you want opaque, long-wear color on a budget, it’s a solid choice.

In our testing, L'Oréal Rouge Signature Lip Stain stood out as an affordable ($9.99) matte stain that earned an 8/10 for comfortable, highly pigmented wear. We found the lightweight formula feels barely there and the unique applicator allows for very precise application, which makes touch-ups easy on hot days. During our review it didn’t fully deliver on transfer-proof claims — it can smudge and takes time to dry, so eating may prompt reapplication. It’s a great pick if you prioritize comfort and vivid color.

Stay-N Lip Liner mixes nourishment with long wear — in our testing hyaluronic acid and vitamin E kept lips conditioned while ten shades covered flattering summer tones. We found the payoff highly pigmented and resistant to eating, so color lasts. During our review the application stood out as fiddly: the applicator lacks precision and the 10–20 minute dry-and-peel step can be tricky if lips aren’t perfectly smooth. If you’re willing to tackle the extra routine, it rewards with hydrated, long-lasting color.

Bitten Sweet Lip Stain gives a glossy, shiny finish with excellent pigmentation — in our testing it provided a smooth texture and a perfect stained look that brightened summer makeup. We found the liquid applicator easy to use and the initial color payoff impressive for daytime events. During our review its wear time was shorter than some competitors and a few testers reported an off taste, which may be a dealbreaker if you snack frequently. If you prioritize immediate shine and color, it’s a pretty, wallet-friendly option.

NYX Lip Stain in Mocha Me Wet gives a juicy, hydrating gloss with strong pigment — in our testing it delivered an appealing glossy finish that leaves a pretty stain behind. We found the moisturizing feel is perfect for summer if you want shine over matte dryness, and the liquid applicator makes application quick and easy. During our review the main drawback was wear: despite the stain claim it didn’t last as long as others and the gloss transferred easily. If hydration and shine beat all-day hold, it’s a fun, pigmented choice.

Ultralip Lipstick stood out in our testing as a hydrating, balm-like option that gives buildable coverage — it earned an 8/10 for comfort and color customization despite being a sheer, glossy formula. We found the moisture-rich finish keeps lips soft and looks fresh for hours, making it a great daytime summer pick. During our review the trade-offs were clear: longevity is limited and the packaging can be frustrating, as the lid sometimes pops off. If you value hydration and versatility over all-day hold, it’s a lovely choice.

Luxe Hydrating Lipstick earned a 9/10 for delivering creamy, highly pigmented color that stays put — an excellent summer pick if you want both hydration and lasting wear. We found the satin-creamy formula glides on smoothly and feels non-drying even in heat, delivering opaque coverage in one swipe. During our review the only caveat was that lighter shades can emphasize lip lines or dry areas, so prep lips beforehand. If budget isn’t a concern, this is our go-to for polished, comfortable color.

As an ultra-budget pick at $6, Revolution Jelly Blush Stick in Strawberry Pink is tempting for summer because it gives a natural, flattering tint and the formula claims hydration. In our testing we found the stick's sheer yet surprisingly pigmented finish can brighten multiple skin tones, but the product dries quickly and is tricky to blend on cheeks or lips. During our review the packaging also worried us — it can break or fall out — which is a real downside that dropped its 5.5/10 score.

Dior Addict Lip Glow Balm is a luxe, personalized balm that adapts to your lip tone — in our testing we liked how the sheer finish creates a gentle, natural tint while delivering hydration. We found its moisturizing feel pleasant for everyday wear, but our experience shows some users report drying or chapping despite the hydrating claims, and the $42 price point felt high compared with other balms. During our review it scored a respectable 7/10 for the unique tint and comfort, though prep and upkeep can be needed.

e.l.f. Glossy Lip Stain is a budget-friendly summer staple at $6 that, in our testing, offered a lightweight, comfortable feel and solid value for everyday wear. We found the glossy finish gives a fresh, hydrated look that’s flattering by the pool, though pigmentation is more moderate than some high-impact stains. During our review it showed transfer and needed reapplication after meals, so don’t expect totally transfer-proof performance. If comfort and affordability top your list, this is an easy product to keep in your bag.

Ruby Woo is a classic for a reason: in our testing Ruby Woo Lipstick delivered that bold, blue-red that flatters many skin tones and earned an 8/10 for longevity and impact. We found the matte, highly pigmented bullet gives iconic color payoff and stays vibrant for hours, but our experience shows it's very drying — you should exfoliate and moisturize beforehand to avoid tugging or emphasizing lip lines. During our review the texture demanded careful application, but the payoff is unmistakable.

Powermatte Lipstick feels weightless and velvety on first swipe, and in our testing the creamy bullet made application comfortable without tugging. We found the pigmentation is rich and flattering, but during our review its staying power disappointed — it often didn't live up to all-day claims and faded through meals, which is why it scored a 6/10. Our experience shows it's a great option for quick glam or touch-ups, but plan to reapply if you'll be eating or out all day.