9 of the Best Lip Tints for Summer 2024

Lips have been front and centre over the last few years when it comes to beauty trends. From plumping lip oils to the reemergence of lip pencils, there’s no doubt we’ve been giving our pouts plenty of attention. As we enter the summer and the hope of warmer weather, you may be considering putting away your lipstick for a few months – sweat and smeared lipstick is not an ideal situation – but do not fear I have the ideal alternative for you. Enter the lip tint, this new hybrid lipstick, lip stain and lip balm is the ultimate summer must-have. It has the appearance of a sheer lipstick but with the added benefit of skincare ingredients to ensure your lips stay hydrating and the sheer finish means you won’t end up with a stained chin if things get a bit too hot. I have made the switch to a lip tint from my trusted nude lipstick and I don’t think I will ever go back. Not only does a lip tint add a hint of colour the textures are *chef’s kiss*. Most of the products contain hardworking ingredients that make you want to apply all day long.

I spoke to the two leading makeup artists, Bobbi Brown and Aimee Connolly to talk us through what a lip tint is, how to apply one and why this could be the multi-tasking product you need right now.

Read on to find out my favourite high pigment colour, my ultimate holiday must-have (as it kept my lips protected in the sun) and why I’m obsessed with this hydrating formula.

Experts Featured in This Article

Bobbi BrownMakeup Artists and Founder of Jones Road

Aimee ConnollyMakeup Artist and founder of Sculpted by Aimee

Related:

• Taylor Swift’s Red Lipstick is Sold Out Until May 2025, So Here’s Some Alternatives
• I’m a Beauty Editor and These Are the 10 Products You Should Buy From Selfridges
• 19 of the Best Blushers, All Tested by a Beauty Editor

What is the Difference Between a Lip Tint and a Lipstick?

You may roll your eyes, but there is a difference! “A lip tint is a modern, moisturising product that effortlessly glides on – no prep work or mirror required,” says Brown. “It is more moisturising so it feels good on the lips and adds a more natural bit of colour. Traditional lipstick can sometimes be dry and cakey,” she tells PS UK.

One of the biggest advantage of a lip tint over a lipstick is how it can be built up, without peeling or becoming too dry. “Lip tints are really versatile,” Brown tells PS UK. “If you like it sheer, it can be sheer, but if you like a bold colour, you can build it up for a brighter shade.”

For Connolly it is the hydrating properties that set them apart from a lipstick. “More and more of us are searching for multi-tasking formulas that not only enhance the look of our lips, but nourish and care for them too,” she tells PS UK. “Tinted balms are my go-to, offering a moisturised lip with a gorgeous sweep of colour.”

How Should You Apply a Lip Tint?

“You can apply a lip tint directly from the stick for a touch of colour or layer for a bolder statement,” says Brown. “My tip is if you’re trying to get a more sophisticated look, use a small detail brush for super precise application.”

Connolly also gives this tip, “When it comes to lip tints or balms they can also work wonderfully as cream blush!” she tells PS UK. “Simply apply your favourite creamy lip product to the apples of your cheeks and the mid-point of your nose using your fingertips to add a rosy sheen that matches your lip shade.”

Best Lip Tints