Best Lipstick by Cost Per Use (2026)
We analyzed 5 popular lipsticks to find which ones give you the most value per application. The average lipstick costs $0.59 per use — but there's a wide range from budget-friendly to luxury.
Lipstick Comparison: Ranked by Value
| # | Product | Price | Size | Cost/Use | Lasts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MAC Matte Lipstick4.6/5 | $22 | 3g | $0.18 | 3.9mo |
| 2 | NARS Lipstick4.5/5 | $30 | 3.5g | $0.22 | 4.6mo |
| 3 | Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick4.7/5 | $35 | 3.5g | $0.25 | 4.6mo |
| 4 | Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick | $10 | 5ml | $0.40 | 0.8mo |
| 5 | Fenty Beauty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick4.4/5 | $25 | 2.7ml | $1.92 | 0.4mo |
Our Analysis
Best Value: MAC Matte Lipstick
At just $0.18 per use, MAC Matte Lipstick offers the lowest cost per application in our comparison. It lasts approximately 3.9 months with daily use.
Read full guide →Premium Pick: Fenty Beauty Icon Velvet Liquid Lipstick
At $1.92 per use, this is the most premium option. While the cost per use is higher, many users consider the formula and finish worth the investment (4.4/5 rating).
Read full guide →Lipstick Expiration
Lipstick and lip products are particularly prone to bacterial contamination since they contact your mouth directly. Look for changes in smell, texture, or a waxy coating.
Read our full lipstick expiration guide →Track Your Lipstick Collection
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