The Stain Game

Do you wish your lipcolor could last hours without feathering, smearing or rubbing off? Then you might want to try a lip stain. Stains literally, temporarily stain the lips with color for hours of kissproof and waterproof wear. The main thing to remember with a stain is that it's not creamy or moisturizing like some lipsticks and glosses are so you really have to make sure your lips are exfoliated since every flake and line will show. My fave lip exfoliation tip? Apply some balm, then take a washcloth and rub in circular motions until lips are smooth. No need for those expensive exfoliators! Check out my favorite stains below.

Benefit Benetint is the original lip and cheek stain. It's a sheer, rosy/berry tint for lips and cheeks that wears on for hours and is completely waterproof. Perfect for when you want a just bitten lip moment. I'm pretty partial to Posietint as well, which is a really pretty poppy pink shade that's perfect for spring and summer.

tarte recently rolled out its Natural Lipstain with LipSurgence Technology, which is clinically proven to increase moisture content by 6000%, which tackles the problem of most lipstains, which is dryness. Each peppermint-infused stain leaves behind a hint of tint without parabens, pertrochemicals and all that stuff we don't want. I love Joy, a juicy peach.

When certain cosmetics hit the masses, you know it's a full on trend. Cover Girl Outlast Lip Stain is super lightweight and literally reminds me of a marker with a felt tip applicator. It uses water-based colorants to keep lips stained all day, but it can be drying so carry some clear balm with you. The shades are brighter on than they appear in the packaging so keep that in mind. My favorite is Teasing Blush, a natural flushed pink shade.