​What’s the deal with lip tints? A guide to lip tints and lip stains

You may have seen lip tints making the rounds, not just in Korean cosmetics but also in brands all over the world. But what exactly are they and, more importantly, should you get one?
 
What is a lip tint?
Lip tints are all the rage in Korea and elsewhere in the cosmetics world. These are stains that can be comprised of many different ingredients and can be matte or shiny. But the main separation from a lip tint and say, a classic lipstick, is that lip tints tend to be far more subtle (read: natural-looking) and also give you the option of easy gradients or layering. Personally, I also like lip tints because they are easy to apply and smudge, making them fairly forgiving for an easy or sloppy execution.
 
Lip tints can be applied several ways. For a gradient application, apply the lip tint in the center of the lips and blend outwards. For a darker or brighter look, apply several layers. For the matte versions, apply lip moisturizer beforehand.
 
Difference between a lip stain and a lip tint 
Lip stains literally stain the lips, with the color bleeding into your tissue. Those suckers stay on a long time, so make sure it's right before you leave the house! As I unfortunately learned one day trip, there will be no smudging and fixing later in the car.

Some of the Korean brands last a full day or more, especially ones branded as lip ‘tattoos’. Lip stains are also much more pigmented and brighter than tints. This makes them harder to take off--both a blessing and curse, depending on your usage. 

Lip tints by contrast are sheer and easily smudge across the lips. They come off easily and are much more natural looking.

​Both lip tints and lip stains work differently than lipsticks: they absorb into the skin moreso than lipstick, which forms a layer on top of your lips, sometimes resulting in that cracked look.

Lip tint types
Lip tints come in a variety of formats: water, gel, cream and oil. Water lip tints are the most common and also the most subtle. They tend to be well, watery, and very minimal or natural looking, providing an easy pop of light color. Despite the texture, they are actually quite drying on lips so you will definitely want to apply some lip balm beforehand.
 
Beware though—their staying power is fairly minimal so this is one you need to carry around with you. Others that go with a more “stain” texture can be a bit messy or drippy but absorb quickly into the lip. Make sure you test these out at the store first to see, as I’ve had the gamuntlet of water vs. dry tints.
 
In terms of ingredients, I’ve noticed many lip tints tend to have more botanical or natural ingredients, which can be a big plus for a lot of consumers (and with a bonus of having a nice subtle scent).

Pros and cons of lip tints
To summarize, if you’re considering trying a lip tint, here are the advantages and disadvantages. (Please note, these are tips for an average lip tint, but all lip tints vary based on ingredients.)

Pros:

• natural looking
• versatile as you can layer for a slightly brighter look
• light feeling on the lips and often fragrant
• most are affordable
• generally easy application
• many hues available

 
Cons:

• many tend to be short-lasting
• the color can be VERY subtle--potentially too subtle for some consumers
• the application can be drippy or wet at times (but absorbs quickly)

Lip tint recommendations
Read on for some of the Korean lip tints I’ve tried and enjoyed!

Tony Moly's Get It Tint is really more of a stain, but provides a nice, not-too-bright lip color that lasts a long time. It's available in a variety of colors which you can order online, including: All Night Red, Red Chili, Coral Pink Ming, Play Orange and Peach Punch. 

RATING: 3/3
Rating Score Sheet:
​1/3: Wish I could turn back time and get my money back.
2/3: Decent enough to buy again, especially if it's on sale.
3/3: Shut up and take my money!

Skinfood's Tomato Cool Jelly Tint (read full review here) is a gel-based tint but really I didn't notice much difference than a water tint. The application was slightly watery and very subtle, but created a nice natural color. Minimal staying power.

RATING: 2/3
Rating Score Sheet:
​1/3: Wish I could turn back time and get my money back.
2/3: Decent enough to buy again, especially if it's on sale.
3/3: Shut up and take my money!
​

Etude House's Water Tints are also subtle but I like the natural heightening of color they provide. 

​RATING: 2/3
Rating Score Sheet:
​1/3: Wish I could turn back time and get my money back.
2/3: Decent enough to buy again, especially if it's on sale.
3/3: Shut up and take my money!

Have you come across any amazing lip tints? Feel free to share!
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