When it comes to the best-rated lip stains, Benefit brings considerable ‘that girl’ energy to the table—and with good reason. For decades, this lip and cheek stain has held sway over our makeup kits with its smudge-proof formula and buildable finish. For the rosy, my-lips-but-better wash of colour, look no further than this multitasking pick.

This stain has been on dressing tables since 1976 for a reason. A few dots on the cheeks and a little more on the lips gives a flush that looks like it came from within, not from a bottle. It's buildable, water-based for a more natural finish that lasts, and one small bottle tends to outlast most of what sits next to it on the shelf.

Tired of cakey formulas that weigh your lips down? So are we. This mousse-style lip stain by RENEE Cosmetics wants you to douse your pout in a velvety-smooth formula for the just-bitten look. Designed to be used across the lips, cheeks and eyes, this little number works as hard as you do.

While heavy-duty mattes have a well-earned place in your lipstick kit, there is no denying the appeal of a lightweight lip tint on busy mornings. The Face Shop’s cherry-hued tint will have you ready in two ticks, promising a gel-like, non-greasy formula and a transfer-proof finish throughout the day.

This cherry-toned lip tint by The Face Shop is a forever-favourite in my bag. It’s juicy, moisturising and—surprise—totally transfer-proof. I expected it to dry out my lips, but it leaves them looking fuller and soft with a gel-like texture that never feels heavy. I love layering it with a mauve lipstick for an extra-juicy effect, but it’s equally flattering solo. When it fades, it leaves behind a subtle stain that gives the ‘your lips, but plumper’ look. Bonus: it survives all the mid-day snack breaks without losing its shine. Truly a lip tint that understands the assignment.