The viral lip stains everyone's talking about, tried and tested – 12 hour-wear and fully kiss-proof

Cosmopolitan

2 days ago

Fun fact: Whenever I see a new makeup product reach TikTok fame, the beauty journo in me must try it, pronto. Maybe it's a problem but, hey, a girl can have hobbies. The latest viral sensations (the products, not me) to pique my interest are Huda Beauty's Lip Contour Stains and Faux Filler Jelly Oils.
These lip stain pens and lip oils launched a few weeks ago, and in possibly the most iconic way. Huda Kattan, founder of Huda Beauty, took to social media, posting a video of her doing the 'burger test'. She tucked into a juicy burger wearing the new lip stains and jelly oils and ~ shock ~ the stain didn't move. My attention was grabbed, and then secured when I saw other major TikTokers like Mikayla Nogueira try it out.
The stain and oil can be bought separately to create the illusion of fuller lips or a glossy sheen. But when paired together, that's where the magic happens, as you're left with a pigmented, smudge-proof lip that has the same shine as a jelly doughnut on top. The duo is called Huda's Stained Jelly Lips after all.
The lip stain is available in eight shades to flatter a wide range of skin and lip tones, ranging from soft pinks to caramel-y warm nudes and, of course, a punchy red to top it off.
The first thing I noticed was how fluffy the liner tip was, not like the usual felt-tip style nib of other lip stains. Yes, it felt smooth on my smackers but as I blended, I discovered that the applicator helped diffuse the stain for a plump and contoured effect.
I was also surprised at how lightweight the stain felt. Not once did my lips feel dehydrated or in desperate need of lip balm, and it's thanks to argan oil which helped to seamlessly glide on the pigment but also keep my lips feeling hydrated.
The finishing touch is the new Faux Filler Jelly Oil. Don't get me wrong, the stains have enough 'wow' factor to be worn alone for a natural, plump look. But, IMO, they really come to life with the ultra-glossy lip oil.
They're available in three wearable, pinky shades – Pink Lady, Peach and Goji – each adding the most juicy, non-sticky sheen of oil to really make the pigment pop. They also contain peptides and shea butter, so these oils are great to slather on, even without the stain, if your lips are feeling a little parched.
I was honestly surprised at how well the pigment lasted for, barely budging throughout an entire evening filled with drinks, dinner and a theatre production involving a lot of laughing (and ice cream). The oil, as I'd expect, wore off following dinner but the stain lasted for at least seven hours. And I'm sure if I hadn't gone to bed, it would have lasted the entire 12 – I know it did for Cosmo's Beauty Director Keeks Reid.
Now, here's the only caveat. When I first used the stain I was disappointed at how many times I had to go over with the pen for the pigment to really pop. But then I discovered that there's a reason for it. The formula contains a polymer named polyurethane-35 which is held in a cotton-like mechanism. Due to its viscous nature, the stain struggles to flow down the tip if it's pointing upwards. So it's best to store the pen upside down to ensure the stain flows to the tip of the pen, and draws an intensely-pigmented line.
Considering my makeup storage of choice is a filthy cosmetic bag, I wouldn't say this is exactly convenient. However, I'm willing to overlook this for the pigmented pout that withstands any snack or smooch. As for the oils, a summer staple that's for sure.
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan and Women's Health, covering all things makeup, skincare and hair care, as well as deals events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Clare has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, writing matter-of-fact reviews such as deep dives into skin concerns and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need. When she's not typing away, Clare is in front of the camera creating shopping content for Cosmo's TikTok Shop, testing the most viral beauty products to know.
Before working at Hearst UK, she received a BA degree in Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on the world of magazines and editorial. From there, she worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events like Fashion Week and interviewing reputable brand founders. Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling along London's Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or horseback riding in the countryside.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson