Lipstick vs. Tinted Balm: Our Lip Guide Provides Top Picks for Every Mood and Budget

Here's a quirky beauty truth: the average person eats about 2 kg of lipstick in their lifetime. Yes, it's odd but true, and it makes what you put on your lips a little more important than just how it looks. These days, lip products do more than tint or shine. From SPF to skincare ingredients, today's top formulas are doubling up as treatments. So, whether you're sipping on hot chai or heading to a dinner date, the right product makes all the difference, and we've got five each of the best lipsticks and tinted lip balms currently worth your rupees.

Lipstick vs Tinted Lip Balm: Top 5 Picks For Every Mood and Budget; Photo Credit: Pexels

What's the Real Difference Between Lipstick and Tinted Balm?

Lipsticks are for those moments when you want high-impact colour and long wear. They bring the drama, stay put for hours, and can completely transform your look. On the other hand, tinted balms offer hydration, a softer wash of colour, and often come with SPF or nourishing ingredients. They're perfect for everyday wear, lightweight, quick to apply, and easy to top up without a mirror.

Also Read: Try These 5 Lip Balms To Stay Hydrated And On The Trend This Season

Top 5 Tinted Lip Balms You Will Love

1. Nivea – Cherry Shine Melt-In Duo

A cult classic that continues to win hearts, this tinted balm delivers a soft cherry hue while keeping lips moisturised all day. With seven shades and a 47% discount (₹275 for two!), it's ideal for anyone looking for everyday colour and comfort without breaking the bank.

2. LAMEL – Peachy Tinted Plumping Oil

This one's for glossy lovers. It's not your average balm, it's a lip oil that adds a juicy tint with a plumping finish. The shade Peachy 401 gives a warm glow and feels luxurious, and the best part? It's cruelty-free and priced at ₹439, with offers that can take it even lower.

3. Deconstruct – Vitamin C + SPF 30 Balm

This balm is packed with 1% Vitamin C and SPF 30, making it perfect for anyone worried about pigmentation. The subtle tint flatters most skin tones, and the formula feels light, not sticky. At ₹229, it's also one of the most skin-beneficial picks in this lineup.

4. Dot & Key – Strawberry Red SPF 50 Balm

When hydration and sun protection go hand in hand, this balm wins. With SPF 50 and a glossy strawberry red tint, it's your beach bag essential or office-desk staple. It retails at ₹224 and offers a comfortable wear throughout the day, no mirror needed.

5. Elitty – Berry Demure SPF 20 Balm

Here's a newbie making waves. With peptides and Vitamin E, this balm combines care with colour. Berry Demure is a flattering tint that suits all complexions, and the SPF 20 gives it an added edge. Currently priced at ₹248, it's a worthy grab for beauty minimalists.

Top 5 Lipsticks That Mean Business

1. Pilgrim – Arabian Nites Glitter Matte

Ready to turn heads? This 3D glitter matte lipstick is not for the shy. Arabian Nites is a deep, dramatic brown with just the right touch of sparkle. At ₹516, it's an investment in glamour, perfect for weddings or festive evenings.

2. Mamaearth – Cranberry Crush Creamy Matte

Comfort meets longevity with this creamy matte formula, enriched with murumuru butter. It's gentle, glides on smooth, and stays put for hours. Priced at ₹359, it's also cruelty-free, which scores extra points.

3. Maybelline – Wicked Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick

This one's all about staying power and gloss. Wicked is a vampy red that won't budge for hours. The vinyl finish adds drama, and the doe-foot applicator makes it easy to use. ₹628 might be on the higher side, but fans say it's worth every rupee.

4. Lakme – 9to5 Deep Wine Matte

An office favourite, this lipstick lasts up to 16 hours, perfect for busy days with no time for touch-ups. Deep Wine is rich, bold, and never drying. At ₹370 (with a steep 43% discount), it delivers serious value.

5. L'Oréal Paris – S'il Vous Plait Satin Lipstick

Sophistication in a bullet, this satin-finish lipstick has a smudge-proof formula and luxurious feel. The plum shade ‘S'il Vous Plait 124' is chic yet wearable. ₹667 gets you a long-lasting, comfortable formula, ideal for date nights or brunches.

So, What Should You Pick?

If you're after maximum colour payoff and don't mind a little prep, lipstick's your best friend. For quick hydration, a bit of colour, and added benefits like SPF or Vitamin C, tinted balms are the way to go. You don't have to choose just one either, most makeup bags have space for both.

Your lips deserve more than just a swipe of colour, they deserve care, comfort, and a little personality too. Whether you lean towards a loud lipstick or a soothing balm, the key is to choose what makes you feel your best. Happy swiping, and don't miss those discounts while they last. Shop now on Myntra.