Lipstick reviews: 16 best lipsticks

9. Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick (Airy Fairy), $5.99

Tester says: "Airy Fairy is a pale muted pink, quite neutral, and I liked it very much. Even after the lipstick had worn off, my lips were stained a light pink colour for an hour or so. I really like the rich, creamy texture of this lipstick – it made my lips feel soft and moisturized. I reapply it often because I like the way it feels. I would absolutely buy this lipstick – it has become one of my favourites."

Available at drugstores

10. Benefit Silky-Finish Lipstick (Skinny Dip), $19

Tester says: "Benefit is the queen of packaging – it's always so kitschy and retro. I love it! Skinny Dip is a great neutral, a light rose shade that could be worn for everyday. It's very natural, sheer coverage. It doesn't have very long staying power, but I prefer it that way – sometimes, longer-lasting lipsticks can look dry and aged when they're worn for too long. This lipstick is very moisturizing and wears light – it feels great on my lips."

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques, Sephora and select The Bay stores

11. Maybelline New York Moisture Extreme Lip Color (Nude Blush), $8.99

Tester says: "Nude Blush is a neutral blush pink shade that could work on a variety of skin tones. This lipstick has a nice sheer consistency that glides on easily; it's similar to a gloss. It's easy to apply and I like that it has no taste or smell."

Available at drugstores

12. The Body Shop Sheer Lip Shine (Sheer Blush), $15.50

Tester says: "I really liked the dark rosy colour of this lipstick, and I loved the taste. It went on smoothly and easily, and felt more like a lip gloss. I liked the packaging; it was easy to hold and use. I would definitely buy it again."

Available at The Body Shop stores and online at thebodyshop.ca

13. N.Y.C. Ultra Last Lip Wear (Sherry Sparkle), $1.95

Tester says: "I'm usually a bit of a brand snob, but this lipstick surprised me with its smooth texture and super-easy, even application. Sherry Sparkle is a nice neutral rose with a hint of sparkle, perfect for daytime wear. And it really does last well, even through sticky peanut butter bars (I ate them in the name of science)."

Available at drugstores

14. Origins Rain and Shine Liptint with SPF 15 Sunscreen (Go Blonde), US$13.50

Tester says: "I usually put lip balm on before applying lipstick, but I didn't have to with this – it's like its own lip balm. It lasts through light meals (depending on what you're eating) and has a nice pepperminty smell. Application is smooth and it makes your lips a bit tingly. I've been converted – this is now my lipstick of choice."

Available at origins.com

15. Chanel Aqualumière Sheer Colour Lipshine (Bali), $31

Tester says: "I've always loved Chanel packaging, and the construction of the tube is great, as is typical with a luxury brand. The lipstick was very moisturizing and velvety on the lips – it glided on effortlessly. It has staying power – I applied once in the morning and it stayed on well into lunch – and a very light consistency, so I didn't feel like I was wearing a lot of lipstick."

Available at Chanel beauty counters

16. Prescriptives Colorscope Lipcolor (San Diego Sunset), $26

Tester says: "This lipstick came in a compact silver tube that I liked a lot. It was super easy to carry around and fit into a crowded purse – or even your pocket. The lipstick was very moisturizing. It glided on really smoothly and felt like I was applying lip balm. It was extremely easy to apply – I didn't feel like I had to moisturize my lips first. I usually buy drugstore lipsticks, but the consistency and 'unlipstick'-like nature of this lipstick made me love it!"

Available at Holt Renfrew across Canada

Did we leave out your favourite lipstick? Share your lipstick tips in the comments.

Read more:
• Beauty reviews: 19 best eye creams
• The 5 makeup brushes you really need
• Slideshow: 5 face-protecting moisturizers

Page 2 of 2