How To Choose Best Lipsticks for Humid Weather: Shades That Last Through the Monsoon

Rainy days have their charm, freshly washed streets, the glisten of city lights, and a cool breeze that makes even a simple walk feel cinematic. Yet, the romance of the season ends rather abruptly when the mirror shows patchy lipstick or worse, colour bleeding into fine lines. Monsoon, with all its beauty, is also merciless on makeup. The real test begins when the first drizzle meets the vibrant shade on the lips. Some lipsticks soldier through the storm; others vanish faster than a pakora at tea time. Knowing which ones to trust becomes essential, not just for vanity but for the comfort of feeling put together even when the skies look uncertain.

This guide explores textures, finishes, and formulas that genuinely outlast humidity. It blends practical advice with relatable experiences, ensuring that the next time the clouds open up, the lipstick doesn't run away.  Here is how to choose lipsticks that endure the Monsoon humidity, with shades that provide flawless, all-day color.

Read about different lip products and which one is the best for humidity; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Matte Magic – The Season's Best Friend

Monsoon humidity is no less than a battlefield, and matte lipsticks are the warriors that rarely back down. Their dry formula clings to the lips, refusing to smudge at the first touch of rain. Unlike creamy lipsticks, mattes don't melt in the heat or turn sticky during sudden power cuts when fans stop working.

Think of popular liquid mattes, those that set within seconds and refuse to budge even after multiple cups of filter coffee. They may demand a little patience while applying, but the payoff is worth it. A brick red or berry matte can stay vibrant through an entire office day, even with surprise rain showers. The only trick is to keep lips moisturised before application, since mattes highlight dryness. A quick swipe of lip balm five minutes before layering on the colour does wonders.

Monsoon mornings become easier when there's no need to check the mirror every hour. A matte shade means freedom from constant touch-ups, leaving more time to enjoy roadside bhutta under an umbrella.

2. Liquid Lipsticks – The Rain-Proof Option

There's a reason liquid lipsticks often feature in monsoon makeup kits. Once they dry down, they form a film-like layer that resists smudging. Whether stepping out for grocery shopping or braving a flooded metro station, a reliable liquid formula stays put.

Brands have mastered shades that glide like gloss but settle into transfer-proof finishes. Even a sudden downpour won't wash away the colour. The best part? They don't stain collars, masks, or coffee mugs. A deep maroon liquid lipstick pairs perfectly with monsoon fashion, cotton kurtas, oversized shirts, or even raincoats.

The catch, however, is comfort. Many liquid formulas can feel tight on the lips, especially when worn for long hours. A simple hack is to dab a touch of clear balm in the centre, without disturbing the edges. That way, the lips feel soft without losing their smudge-proof strength. With this balance, liquid lipsticks turn into true rainy-day companions.

3. Lip Crayons – Effortless and Reliable

For those who prefer quick fixes, lip crayons are the season's underdogs. Their creamy-matte texture glides on easily, yet sets well enough to withstand humidity. Crayons also allow precision without a liner, which comes in handy when the rain makes it impossible to step out with a full makeup pouch.

Imagine being stuck at a café waiting for the rain to stop. A crayon in the bag means one swift swipe and the lips look refreshed. Shades like dusty rose or soft coral brighten up gloomy skies without appearing too bold. Plus, they're pocket-friendly and often available in travel sizes, perfect for tucking into handbags.

Unlike liquid lipsticks, crayons rarely crack or feel heavy. They strike a balance between staying power and comfort, making them ideal for long days that start with office meetings and end with an impromptu momo outing. When time is short and rain clouds are unpredictable, a trusty lip crayon saves the day.

Lip crayons offer great coverage and precision; Photo Credit: FreePik

4. Lip Tints – Barely There but Beautiful

Sometimes, monsoon calls for subtlety. Lip tints are feather-light, blending seamlessly into the lips to give that “just bitten” look. Perfect for brunches, college days, or even working from home, tints survive the weather without demanding attention.

Since they stain rather than coat the lips, humidity doesn't affect them much. Even if the rain leaves hair frizzy and clothes damp, tints stay intact. A pink or berry stain looks fresh against dewy skin, enhancing natural beauty without appearing overdone. They're also versatile, dab a bit on the cheeks for a quick flush when the weather dulls the complexion.

The best part? No mirror touch-ups. A tint fades gracefully rather than patchily. So even if the day stretches beyond plan, the lips never look bare. Affordable, low-maintenance, and monsoon-friendly, lip tints are proof that sometimes less truly is more.

5. Cream Lipsticks – A Risky Affair

Cream lipsticks may be tempting with their buttery feel, but the monsoon doesn't treat them kindly. The humidity often melts them down, leading to smudging, feathering, or even that dreaded lipstick mark on the teeth.

Picture sipping on cutting chai at a roadside stall. A creamy formula is likely to disappear by the second sip, leaving uneven patches behind. It's not that cream lipsticks have no place during monsoon, they can work if used strategically. Setting them with a tissue dab and a light dusting of translucent powder gives them a fighting chance. Pairing them with a matching lip liner also prevents colour from bleeding.

Still, for important events or long commutes, creamy lipsticks aren't reliable. Save them for indoor occasions where there's less chance of battling rain, heat, and endless cups of tea. Their comfort factor is undeniable, but they remain fair-weather friends.

Also Read: Pretty In Pink: 5 Lipstick Shades That Deserve A Spot In Your Makeup Bag

6. Glossy Lipsticks – The Tricky Temptation

Gloss during monsoon is like wearing white shoes on muddy streets, risky but irresistible. The shine looks stunning under grey skies, catching light beautifully in selfies. Yet, glosses are the first to slip and slide in humidity.

Glossy lipsticks amplify moisture, which sounds great until the rain adds to the mix. A sudden drizzle and the gloss smears across the face faster than one can find shelter. That doesn't mean gloss should be completely avoided. A clear gloss layered over a matte lipstick adds dimension without compromising longevity.

For evenings out, when rain is less likely or one is travelling by car, gloss can still make a statement. A nude gloss paired with kohl-rimmed eyes exudes understated glamour. But for long workdays or crowded bus rides, matte and tint formulas are far safer. Gloss is for the days when mood outweighs practicality.

Glossy lipsticks can smudge easily in humid weather conditions; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Lip Balms with Tint – Everyday Heroes

Not every monsoon day demands full lipstick. Sometimes, a tinted balm is all that's needed to look awake and cheerful. Balms hydrate the lips, preventing the dryness that matte formulas can accentuate. And with a hint of colour, be it strawberry pink or peach, they offer just enough polish for daily wear.

When rushing out with an umbrella in one hand and a bag in the other, there's no time for precise application. A quick swipe of tinted balm can be done even in the rear-view mirror of an auto-rickshaw. It's fuss-free, affordable, and perfect for students or those constantly on the move.

Plus, balms usually come in handy sticks or tubes, making them convenient for touch-ups. They may not last as long as liquid lipsticks, but they fade gracefully and keep lips nourished. For everyday errands during the rains, tinted balms remain undefeated.

8. Long-Wear Formulas – The Investment Piece

The beauty aisles now overflow with “long-wear” and “24-hour stay” promises. While marketing may exaggerate, certain premium formulas genuinely stand tall against monsoon chaos. These lipsticks combine the endurance of mattes with the comfort of cream textures.

Yes, they cost more, sometimes upward of ₹1,000, but the reliability often justifies the splurge. A well-formulated long-wear lipstick can survive an entire wedding function, complete with endless rounds of food, dance, and maybe a light drizzle. Popular shades like deep wine or caramel brown become signature looks when they don't budge throughout the day.

For those who want one reliable lipstick that works across seasons, long-wear formulas are a safe investment. They cut down on the need for multiple touch-ups, and in the long run, save both time and product. In monsoon, when everything else feels unpredictable, a long-lasting lipstick provides small but certain comfort.

9. Budget-Friendly Picks – Surviving Without Splurging

Good lipsticks needn't empty the wallet. The market brims with budget-friendly options that deliver impressive staying power even during monsoon. Drugstore brands have perfected mattes and crayons priced as low as ₹300–₹500, making them accessible to students and working professionals alike.

These pocket-friendly heroes are perfect for experimenting with bold shades, electric pinks, rusty oranges, or even gothic purples, without guilt. If a shade doesn't suit, it hasn't cost a fortune. Many of these budget formulas perform on par with their high-end counterparts, especially when paired with hacks like blotting or layering.

Walking through local markets or browsing online sales often uncovers underrated gems. A ₹400 lipstick that survives a rainy-day train commute feels more rewarding than a pricey one that disappears after lunch. Affordability paired with performance makes budget picks crucial players in the monsoon lipstick game.

Drugstore brands offer plenty of good-quality lipsticks on a budget; Photo Credit: Pexels

10. Smart Application Hacks – Making Lipsticks Last

No lipstick, however premium, survives monsoon without the right technique. Prepping lips with exfoliation ensures smooth application. A liner not only shapes but also anchors colour, preventing it from bleeding. Blotting with tissue and reapplying creates layers that lock in pigment.

Powder is a secret weapon, dusting a little translucent powder between layers mattifies any lipstick, extending wear. For those who can't part with creamy lipsticks, this trick works wonders. Carrying blotting paper helps manage both oily T-zones and lipstick shine during humidity.

Another underrated hack is choosing deeper shades. Light nudes may wash out faster, but burgundies, plums, and terracottas hold their ground. They also complement the earthy vibe of monsoon, echoing the richness of the season. With these tricks, even a mid-range lipstick can outlast premium ones. Application, after all, is half the battle.

Products Related To This Article

1. FACES CANADA Comfy Matte Wow Liquid Lipstick - 3.8ml

2. LOreal Paris Color Riche Smudge-Proof Satin Lipstick

3. Maybelline New York Superstay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick 4.5 ml

4. SUGAR Nothing Else Matter Longwear Lipstick 3.5 g

5. Lakme 9to5 Powerplay Priming Matte Lipstick, Lasts 16hrs

6. MARS Brown Smudge Wont Budge Lip Crayon

7. Earth Rhythm Lip Cheek Tint - Brandy

Monsoon is a season of contrasts, messy puddles alongside poetic rains, unpredictable skies balanced by the comfort of hot snacks. Lipsticks too fall into categories of survivors and quitters. While mattes, liquids, and tints prove to be monsoon champions, creams and glosses struggle to keep up. Smart hacks, budget-friendly finds, and occasional splurges on long-wear formulas ensure the vanity stays rain-ready.

Ultimately, lipstick during monsoon isn't about vanity, it's about confidence. There's a quiet joy in catching a reflection on a rain-speckled window and seeing a colour still intact. The world may be drenched, the hair may frizz, but the lips? They stand strong, smiling through the storm. You can also buy lipsticks online to browse different shades, formula, and types.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.