11+ Waterproof Lipsticks That Actually Last

A lip color that can go the distance—that lasts from morning application through your last happy hour cocktail—can be hard to come by. Even more elusive is one that holds up when met with water. While not as buzzed about as H20-resistant mascara, waterproof lipstick is more than worthy of praise in the long-wear makeup arena.

1. Maybelline Makeup SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick

Consider this a tattoo for your lips—but without any of the pain, maintenance, cost, lifelong regrets, etc. This highly pigmented, drugstore matte lipstick features an arrow-shaped applicator to help you reach the inner corners of your mouth without messing up your lines.

2. BareMinerals Statement Matte Liquid Lipstick

Finally, a lightweight, transfer-resistant liquid lipstick that doesn’t feel like shrink-wrap on your lips. TBH, it’s really comfortable to wear, and it comes in eight super-pretty shades. One tip, though? Wait at least 10 minutes before eating or drinking to allow the color to truly set.

3. Dior Addict Lip Tattoo

Sometimes, I like the look of a tint, but I also want the wear of a matte lip. Sound impossible? Well, Dior somehow made it happen. This 10-hour wear “tinted ink” gives a bright but sheer layer of color, while keeping lips feeling ultra-hydrated. It's kinda like your bare lips, but way, way better.

4. Tarte Tarteist Quick Dry Matte Lip Paint

The internet has been raving about this opaque, flake-proof liquid lipstick for years, and for good reason: It dries almost immediately and doesn't suck the moisture out of your lips. For the smoothest finish, do a little lip prep beforehand by using a little lip exfoliator followed by a rich, hydrating lip balm.

5. The Lip Bar Matte Liquid Lipstick

I can’t say enough good things about this liquid lipstick. Not only is it a strong favorite because it stays put all day without feeling drying (oh, hey, shea butter and jojoba oil!), but it was also founded by a woman of color, Melissa Butler, which I'm fully here for.

6. Beauty Bakerie Matte Lip Whip

No lie—once, I wore this super-matte lipstick on an all-day boat ride in the Virgin Islands. Not only did it last until sundown, but it also survived a 45-minute snorkeling session. Pure magic!

7. Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lipstick

Listen, this waterproof lipstick is NO joke. It literally does not budge, so plan on grabbing a heavy-duty makeup remover or oil-based cleanser (FYI: I use DHC Deep Cleansing Oil for double-cleansing) to get this bad boy off at the end of the day.

8. Lime Crime Matte Velvetines

This deeply dramatic, velvety formula lasts all day with minimal touch-ups needed. But, as a note, it can be a little drying. So for the longest, most comfortable wear, try swiping on a lightweight lip balm first, waiting 15 minutes for it to sink in, then layering on your liquid lipstick as usual.

9. Make Up For Ever Artist Liquid Matte Lipstick

This 2017 Cosmo Beauty Award Winner has all the staying power you want, minus the dry, chalky feels. I love it because it’s a modern update on my all-time favorite lippie—Aqua Rouge Waterproof Liquid Lip Color—which was sadly discontinued by the brand.

10. Deck of Scarlet Matte Velvet Lip Color Kit

This super-saturated lip pigment is my go-to, especially when I am in a rush. This buildable, creamy formula literally locks on, so after I apply it in the morning, that's it—I'm good for the whole day. And that's a great thing, because I have a million other things to worry about that don't, including the state of my lipstick.

11. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color

When Rihanna initially launched this soft-matte liquid lip in Uncensored (a bold, universal red), I was obsessed. The one-stroke formula really does cover lips in a rich, opaque pigment that 100 percent stays put. And now, she's launched seven additional shades—including a peachy n*de (Unbutton) and a smooth, inky black (Uninvited)—so everyone can find a shade they love.

12. N*destix Intense Matte Lip + Cheek Pencil

Okay, so technically this isn’t a true lipstick, but this two-in-one pencil definitely deserves a spot on my list. Here’s why: It is smudge-proof, comes in 13 pretty shades, and is easily removed with a makeup wipe. Not to mention, you can use it on your eyes, lips, and cheeks, which I did in a pinch when I forgot my makeup bag.