Date: 22 Oct 2025
Have you ever touched up your lipstick after breakfast, only to find it’s mostly gone by lunch? You’re definitely not alone. Whether you’re sipping coffee, chatting with friends, or eating lunch on the go, many of us wish our lipstick would just hold instead of fading, feathering or disappearing altogether.
At the heart of long-wear lipstick is its formula. Lipsticks designed to last for hours often include highly pigmented color, film-forming polymers, and transfer-resistant systems.
On the flip side, creamy or glossy formulas may feel luxurious — but often give up their color sooner because they’re richer in oils and less adhesive to the lips.
How you apply your lipstick also plays a big role. If your lips are dry or uneven, even the best formula will struggle. Exfoliate gently, apply a light balm (let it absorb), then line your lips and apply your lipstick in thin layers. Each extra step helps the color adhere and last longer.
What you eat, drink, how much you talk, and even the climate can affect how long your lipstick stays on. Spicy foods, oily burgers, constant lip-pressing or humid weather can all wear the color faster. Choosing formulas labelled as “long-wear” or “transfer-resistant” helps mitigate that.
Matte finishes tend to last longer than satin or gloss finishes because they have less surface-sheen and fewer oils to move around. However, they can feel drying — so choose one that balances comfort and durability.
Here are some of the best performers that combine durability with wearability — great for anyone wanting color that lasts the day (and perhaps into the evening). Many of these are available via local Kenyan retailers, such as Pharmily.
1. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink — This one has earned a reputation. With up to 16 hours of wear, a precision applicator, and a wide shade range — it’s an accessible favorite for long-wear lipstick.
2. L’Oréal Paris Infallible & Color Riche Long-Wear Lines — These offer high-pigment, rich color that withstands wear and meals, thanks to their film-forming and oil-control technology.
3. MAC Retro Matte / Liquid Lipcolour — A premium choice for those who want luxury feel plus staying power. The formulas here tend to be intense and long-wearing.
4. Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipstick — Another high-end pick — known for bold shades that lock in for extended wear, while still feeling comfy.
5. Revlon Ultra — A mid-range gem: widespread availability, good pricing, and respectable staying power make this a smart choice if you want value without compromising quality.
Here are actionable tips you can use so your lipstick stays on longer — not just in theory, but in real life.
Exfoliate gently (with sugar scrub or soft tissue) and apply a light, fast-absorbing lip balm. After a few minutes, blot excess balm — you want hydrated but not slippery lips. Then apply your lipstick.
Draw a contour just outside your natural lip line (for a fuller look) or along the line exactly (for definition). Fill in lips with liner before the lipstick — this creates a base that holds color better.
Apply one coat of lipstick, blot with a tissue, apply a second coat. This layering helps the color settle in and wear longer.
After applying lipstick, hold a tissue over your lips and dust translucent powder lightly through the tissue. This sets the color without changing the finish drastically.
When you talk, drink, or eat, try to minimize pressing your lips together or smudging the color. Using a "transfer-resistant" formula can also help.
When it comes to long-wear lipstick, price doesn’t always indicate performance — but the comfort, finish, and shade range often differ. Here’s how to compare:
If there’s one takeaway: your lipstick can last all day — but it depends on more than just picking “long-wear” on the label. Prep your lips, choose the right formula, use smart technique, and you’ll see big differences.
Whether you go for an accessible gem like Maybelline’s SuperStay or splurge on a high-end luxury long-wear, the right method will make your lipstick go the distance.
How can I make my lipstick really last through meals and drinks?
Start with prepping your lips, then choose a long-wear formula (like the Maybelline SuperStay). Layer and blot, and opt for a “transfer-resistant” label. Avoid pressing lips together or constantly touching them.
Do matte lipsticks always last longer than creamy ones?
Generally yes — matte formulas have less oil and shine, so they last longer. But some creamy formulas are long-wear now too; it depends on their film-forming technology.
What’s a good long-wear lipstick available in Kenya?
The Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink is an excellent choice for long wear, good value, and strong reviews in Kenya.
How often should I touch up long-wear lipstick?
If you used correct technique and a strong formula, you might only need one touch-up after lunch. But if you eat oily foods or drink through a straw, you may need a light reapplication in the evening.