Key ingredients: coconut oil, baobab extract | Finish: matte | Shades: 9
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a lipstick and a lip crayon?
Lipsticks and lip crayons can vary in formulation, color payoff, and finish, but according to Los Angeles-based cosmetic chemist Amanda Lam, conventional lipstick bullets are firmer to support themselves in their packaging. Lip crayons, on the other hand, are softer since the entire product sits within a plastic tube or wooden pencil. “Formulation-wise, the lipstick bullets usually have a higher concentration of waxes or have more firm/brittle waxes,” adds Lam.
What’s more, lip crayons can vary in density and formulation benefits depending on their packaging, according to Laura Lam-Phaure, a Los Angeles-based cosmetic chemist. “Sharpenable wood lip crayons typically feature a creamier, non-transfer-proof formula because wood, being a porous material, doesn’t support fast-drying ingredients commonly found in matte, long-wear, or no-transfer products,” she says. This is because wood, unlike plastic, can’t provide an airtight seal. Lam-Phaure explains that, In contrast, plastic lip crayons—whether sharpenable or twist-up—can accommodate long-wear, transfer-proof ingredients, allowing for a wider range of formula textures and benefits, including creamy, matte, long-wear, and transferability (or lack thereof). “Plastic, being less absorbent than wood, offers greater formulation flexibility, while wood limits ingredient selection due to its porous and absorbent nature,” she adds.
How do you make lip crayons last longer?
Lip crayons aren’t formulated to be as long-wearing as, say, a matte liquid lipstick, but there are a few ways to extend the life of your shade. New York City-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard says the first step to precise, smudge-free application is sharpening your lip crayon. “This will make sure your application is crisp and clean,” he says. “Get a jumbo sharpener, like this one from Sephora Collection.”
Another prep tip: Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Drescher recommends forgoing your lip masks and chapsticks. “Since most crayons are moisturizing, there’s no need for a lip mask or chapstick underneath,” she says.Instead, “After [blotting away excess product with a tissue], set the lip with a light dusting of setting powder, reapply your lip crayon, re-blot with a tissue, and you’re in business for ultra longwear,” he says. If you want a cleaner look after applying, Drescher recommends cleaning up the edges with a tiny bit of concealer.
Meet the Experts
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?