It doesn’t matter if its nude, fuchsia pink or scarlet red – a slick of lipstick in any shade has the innate ability to make us feel put together and that little bit more polished. So much so, that’s there even a theory around the feel-good power of lipstick called ‘The Lipstick Effect.’ According to this theory, in times of financial hardship and recession, consumers are more likely to spend on small indulgences like lipstick - something we have definitely seen in the past few months.
Skincare products have been flying off the (virtual) shelves and sales of lip-glosses have upped an impressive 155% on John Lewis, while Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Lipstick, £25, ranks in the top 10 best-sellers on Net-A-Porter. What’s more, a recent survey conducted by No7 on 1,800 UK women currently working from home, found that over 50% of women feel more positive when wearing make-up during lockdown.
Of course, you don’t have to splash the cash to find a good lipstick. Nowadays, the high-street offering is on par with luxury brands, with affordable lipsticks boasting pigmented formulas that will stick around all-day long (with or without a face covering). And don’t be perturbed by a face mask – you can totally still wear lipstick underneath. Top trick? Always blot your lipstick after application and for ultimate staying power, press a little translucent powder on top to stop transference.
From £4.95 to £14, these are the 7 best budget lipsticks available to buy now…
Best Affordable Lipstick 2020 - Grazia
1 of 7Lisa Armstrong MATTEiculous Lipstick, £12
Make-up artist Lisa Armstrong has just partnered with Avon to create these highly-pigmented, velvety-matte lipsticks that feel super luxe.
2 of 7No7 Match Made Moisture Drench Lipstick, £10
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, this bullet is great for those of us with sensitive lips.
3 of 7Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Crayon Lipstick, £9.99
These lip crayons are so easy to use. Just scribble them on, pat your lips together and voila - you're good to go!
4 of 7L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Ultra-Matte Lipstick, £7.99
If you prefer matte over glossy and always go for nude - this is the lipstick for you. Choose between 10 different neutral shades to flatter every skin tone.
5 of 7Makeup Revolution Matte Lipstick, £4.95
For full-impact colour that will stay put for hours, give this matte lipstick a whirl.
6 of 7Kiko Glossy Dream Sheer Lipstick, £6.99
Semi-sheer and ultra-hydrating with hyaluronic acid, this creamy formula lends lips a tint of colour with a balmy finish. Great for dry lips in need of a pick-me-up.
7 of 7Glossier Generation G Lipstick, £14
Slightly more expensive, this lipstick is worth the extra few pounds. So lightweight, it's ultra comfortable to wear and the colour play-off is second to none.
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