Valentine’s Day-Approved Liquid Lipsticks (that won’t smudge!)

We’ve all been there. The date is going well, and this really cute guy is about to lean in and kiss you and ugh you remember you’re wearing bright red lipstick that is for sure going to smudge all over the place. Not only that, you’re constantly wiping the corners of your mouth to make sure nothing messed up while you were eating and you’ve already gone to the bathroom twice to check it and re-apply so he probably thinks you have some kind of bladder problem. Not what you want on a date night.

Luckily, some brilliant person though of inventing long-wear liquid lipsticks to keep you from worrying, but some are better than others. I have tried over 10 different brands, and I am picky about what I recommend, so here are my Valentine’s Day-approved long-wear liquid lipsticks that won’t smudge!

#1 Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick

Why it’s a favorite: It’s truly long-wear and boyfriend-approved (Mikey knows when I’m wearing this one we can kiss without me getting the color on him). This baby isn’t going ANYWHERE! If you’re like me and looking for that color that’s going to last and will require something other than water to get off, then this is the best option for you. You can eat and drink all day long with this and it will rub off only slightly.

Downside: It can be a little drying, but if you do a good lip scrub before it’s no biggie.

Favorite Shade: Dusty Rose.

Pro-tip: If you need to take it off when you’re out and don’t have makeup remover, apply any brand of chapstick and rub it off with a tissue. Chapstick is one of the best lip stain removers.

#2 Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick

Why it’s a favorite: While it might not stay as well in my opinion, the vibrant color options and unique finish make it my second favorite. It’s slightly less drying than Anastasia, making the matte finish a little more lush. I’ve also never found a more perfect vampy shade of red.

Downside: Like I said, it won’t stay on perfectly for more than a few hours, and if you eat and drink you’ll need to be slightly more careful. It’s still by far better than any other typical lipstick you could choose, though.

Favorite Shade: Brick Red.

Pro-tip: Try wearing the lipstick with the Kat Von D Lock-It Foundation. I’ve found that if your foundation around your mouth is applied nicely, it helps keep your lipstick in place and look more neat.

#3 Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick 

Why it’s a favorite: This is the smooth-operator you’ve been looking for. Stila has by far been the creamiest liquid lipstick I’ve tried that also stays about 2-4 hours without moving, even while sipping on drinks. (This was my NYE choice and even after having my share of drinks, I only re-applied once after dinner and it looked great all night)

Downside: There are less color options, so if you’re looking for something very specific you might not find it.

Favorite Shade: Bacca.

Pro-tip:  If you don’t like the color, you can exchange for a different one in store at Nordstrom even after you’ve opened it.

Thanks for reading, and Happy Valentine’s Day!