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When it comes to makeup and teens, the sky’s the limit. And, with all of the endless options out there, it is sometimes hard to try and figure out what is needed and when, however, when it comes to lipstick and the needs of teens, it might be easier than we think.
Ideal types of lipsticks for this age range include long-wearing formulas, easy-to-wear tinted balms that can be reapplied easily throughout the day sans mirrors, and products that come in a wide range of fun to wear, flattering colors and finishes. These lip products should also be affordably priced and easy to come by as well.
We have sourced some options below that are all standout products that meet the aforementioned needs above. There are a few long-wearing matte and liquid lipstick varieties that have all been updated with moisturizing and comfortable formulations for all-day wear. We have also thrown in a buttery-soft lip gloss that makes for a great lip topper for all our matte formulations or wears well on its own. Tinted lip balms are our last pick and make for the perfect sheer and hydrating formulas that can be reapplied as often as you like and thrown in your bag or pocket in a moment’s notice.
Compare the Top Lipstick for Teen of 2024
NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick — Best Overall
Many matte lipstick formulas are drying, cakey, make your lips look cracked and need to be removed the second they are applied. However, the Matte Lipsticks by NYX are a highly pigmented, rich formula that glides on easily and stays put with its smooth matte formula. Comfortable to wear, these lipsticks are creamy to the touch and will stay in place, giving you a silky matte finish. From pure red to nudes and pinks, there is a wide range of color options that are perfect for every moment and occasion in your life.
Pros
- NYX products are cruelty-free and not tested on any animals
Cons
- If you prefer a glossy lip, another option might be better
NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss — Runner Up
The Butter Gloss by NYX is one of their more popular formulas due to their buttery soft formula that makes your lips shiny and plumper. Pair your favorite Butter Gloss shade with a lipstick, liner or wear alone, but either way, your lips will experience a sheer to medium coverage that adds the perfect pop of shine. Available in a wide variety of shades including the perfect nudes and pink nudes to reds and purples, there is an ideal match for everyone.
Pros
- Butter Gloss does not have a sticky feel
Cons
- If you prefer glitter or sparkles in your gloss another option might be better
Maybelline New York Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lipstick — Honorable Mention
Maybelline’s Color Matte formula is another unique, non-drying, creamy formula matte that applies smooth, leaving your lips with a comfortable feel. Infused with pure precious oils, this is Maybelline’s most unique and non-drying matte lipstick to date that is also highly pigmented and leaves your lips hydrated, nurtured and conditioned (which is usually never how one would describe a matte lip). The color options are also endless and on point and when paired with the perfect liner, provide for the perfect, long-lasting lip look.
Pros
- These lipsticks have incredible pigmentation for a drugstore formula
Cons
- This lipstick is not transfer-proof
Sky Organics Tinted Lip Balm — Contender
The Tinted Lip Balm by Sky Organics comes with a pack of four natural, non-toxic and chemical-free balms. Made from 100% natural ingredients including castor oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut oil and aloe vera, this lip balm is safe for even the most sensitive of skin types and is great for all age ranges. Whichever color you choose, you also get a delicious peppermint and vanilla flavor that subtly energizes your lips while providing a light hint of shimmery color that is perfect for year-round wear.
Pros
- These balms are free of alcohol, mineral oil, parabens, and phthalates
Cons
- There is no SPF in this balm
SHANY The Wanted Ones Lip Gloss Set — Also Consider
Shany’s Lip Gloss Set comes with 12 full-sized glosses in some of their most popular colors that are perfect for all skin tones and year-round wear. Colors include nudes, pinks, reds, and oranges in varying opacities and finishes, giving you endless options and a new lipstick to wear every single day. Infused with aloe vera and vitamin E, these glosses will help your lips remain soft and hydrated and provide very light to medium and buildable coverage depending on color.
Pros
- Each lip gloss comes in a clear tube to accurately see the color inside and help indicate when you run out
Cons
- These are not made for long-lasting wear
Honest Beauty Liquid Lipstick — Editor's Pick
Honest Beauty’s Liquid Lipstick is a 2019 Allure Best of Clean Beauty award winner with its all-day wear and hydrating feel. We all appreciate the staying power of a liquid lipstick, however, we don’t like the dryness that tends to comes with them. Honest’s formula has a flexible feel and uses patent-pending CleanPower technology which powers the all-day wear of these shine to matte liquid lipstick formulas. This is also an all-vegan formula that is enhanced with avocado oil to nourish, feels flexible and instantly hydrates with hyaluronic acid to ensure the formula keeps its color while feeling good on the lips.
Pros
- Honest’s ingredients are vetted and verified
Cons
- This lipstick may take a few seconds to dry and set
Honest Beauty Tinted Lip Balm — Another Option
Another great clean lipstick option from Honest Beauty is their Tinted Lip Balm. This throw on and go lip color provides a sheer yet buildable look that will naturally lock in moisture for over six hours and is easy to apply as minimal precision is required. Infused with nourishing avocado oil and antioxidant-rich acai and pomegranate oils, these balms will keep your lips feeling smooth and comfortable without a sticky, waxy or dry feeling and without the dreaded reapplication every five minutes.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free, these balms come in seven wearable and flattering shades
Cons
- These balms may have a slight scent
Buying Guide: Lipsticks For Teens
You may be wondering what the difference is between lipstick for an adult and lipstick for a teen. The only real difference is the color. Usually, lipsticks that are created for teenagers tend to be in a more subtle color range.
Teens should opt for more neutral colors that match their skin undertones; this could be different shades of pink or brown. The combination of subtle color and some gloss can be fantastic for a simple look, even fit for school.
There are many suitable lipsticks available for a reasonable price, which is why we’re here to help you decipher how to choose one!
How Much Should I Spend on a Lipstick for Teens?
Teens do not have as much disposable income as adults with a job. Many teens are exploring different styles and will change their look regularly. For this reason, you should not spend too much on lipstick for them; they may decide they want a different shade in a week.
If you are a teen buying lipstick for yourself, consider purchasing a lipstick you know you will regularly reuse. Similarly, if you are unsure of what shade and finish you want, you can experiment with color using cheaper brands before moving on to something more expensive in the future.
You can pick up some great budget lipsticks for as little as $3. On the other hand, you may want to spend up to $8 on a lipstick you love.
What Color Lipstick Should a Teen Wear?
We don’t want to police the color of lipstick a teen wears. However, we understand that a teen's makeup is an excellent form of expression. Some teens want to look alternative, whereas others prefer a subtle aesthetic.
We recommend choosing colors not usually worn as lipstick to create an alternative look. For example, consider wearing green, blue, or lilac lipstick. For someone who believes themselves to be more mainstream, wearing a color that is one shade darker than their skin tone is suitable. Different shades of pink or coral are also great options.
You may want to match your lipstick to the color of your nail varnish. Many brands provide this option, and you can either purchase your lipstick and nail varnish as a set or individually.
Gloss Is Your Friend
A teen should have a clear gloss in their arsenal. This can be applied over lipsticks if the color is a little too pigmented for them. Lipsticks are also available in a glossy finish; these do not require a gloss addition. A satin finish lipstick is a little less glossy and is best for a subtle look. A matte finish lipstick usually has more pigmentation. A little matte lipstick will go a long way when it comes to teens.
Makeup Sets for Teens
Makeup sets are a popular option for teens. You can purchase a makeup set including blush, eyeshadow, and lipstick. These will often include fun and vibrant colors so you or the teen you are buying it for can have fun and experiment.
Some makeup sets only include different lipstick shades. These lipstick sets will often come in the form of a palette. However, you can also find traditional or liquid lipstick sets too.
Consider Moisturizing Lipsticks
Consider buying your teen a moisturizing lipstick so they can look fabulous while practicing self-care. This is especially recommended during the dry winter months. Similarly, you may want to look for lipstick with some SPF included. You should wear SPF all year round as damaging UV rays are still present in the winter.
What You Should Look For in a Lipstick Container
One of the things that sets lipstick intended for teens apart from others is a cute container. If you buy lipstick as a gift, ensure the container looks good. Some products have pictures of fruit, animals, polka dots, flowers, or lipstick colors.
Choose a lipstick that will not take up too much space in a purse. Similarly, ensure the lid of the lipstick is not easily removed. As you can not open a lipstick before purchasing it, we recommend reading plenty of customer reviews to see if the lid is secure, especially when purchasing liquid lipstick.
