Ever stood in front of a beauty counter, drooling over a lipstick that’s way out of your budget? We’ve all been there. But you don’t need to spend a small fortune to get pigmented, long-lasting, and flattering lip colour. Some of the most affordable lipsticks are hiding in plain sight — right on the shelves of your local drugstore.

From velvety mattes to juicy glosses and creamy satins, drugstore brands are delivering high-performance formulas for under $10. Whether you’re a lipstick junkie or a beauty beginner, this list will help you find cheap lipstick gems that don’t compromise on quality, comfort, or colour payoff.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best drugstore makeup options that offer style, staying power, and satisfaction — all while being friendly to your purse.

What to Look for in an Affordable Lipstick

Before diving into our top 10 list, let’s quickly run through what separates a so-so lipstick from a stellar one, even at a drugstore price point.

Key Qualities to Watch For:

  • Pigmentation: Bold, buildable colour in one or two swipes
  • Texture: Creamy, buttery, or lightweight matte — no crusty lips, please
  • Longevity: Should last through a few cuppas or light meals
  • Comfort: Non-drying, especially for matte formulas
  • Shade Variety: From classic reds to trendy mauves and nudes

And if you’re into multitaskers, some of these lipsticks double as cheek tints or liners too for your lips — win-win!

Top 10 Drugstore Lipsticks Under $10

Let’s get straight to the point — here are the budget-friendly lipsticks that punch far above their price tag.

Maybelline lipstick in a bold red shade, displayed upright with its glossy red and silver packaging beside it.

1. Maybelline Colour Sensational Creamy Matte Lipstick – $7.49

Best For: Everyday wear

Shade to Try: “Touch of Spice”

Maybelline’s creamy matte line feels like butter on the lips but delivers rich, non-drying colour. With over 30 shades, you’ll find the perfect nude, red, or berry to match your mood.

Why we love it:

  • Comfortable matte finish
  • Excellent shade range
  • Doesn’t tug or flake

2. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream – $6.50

Best For: Long-lasting matte finish

Shade to Try: “Cannes” or “London”

This cult classic combines the pigment of a lipstick with the lightweight feel of a mousse. It sets into a velvety matte that’s transfer-resistant but still soft.

Pros:

  • Sweet vanilla scent
  • Travel-friendly tube
  • Great for layering

3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick – $8.99

Best For: Classic satin lovers

Shade to Try: “Cherries in the Snow”

This iconic formula has been around for decades, and for good reason. It’s hydrating, buildable, and comes in a huge range of flattering shades.

Highlights:

  • Vitamin E and avocado oil enriched
  • Smooth application
  • Ideal for dry lips

A bright red lipstick in a clear tube, partially opened with the cap beside it, showcasing its vibrant shade.

4. e.l.f. SRSLY Satin Lipstick – $3

Best For: Budget beginners

Shade to Try: “Taffy”

This lipstick might cost less than your coffee, but don’t underestimate it. The formula is creamy, rich, and shockingly long-lasting.

Why it’s a steal:

  • Incredible price
  • Bold pigmentation
  • Cruelty-free and vegan

5. Wet n Wild MegaLast Matte Lip Colour – $2.99

Best For: Bold matte finish

Shade to Try: “Stoplight Red”

Don’t let the price fool you — this matte lippie goes head-to-head with higher-end formulas. It wears beautifully and doesn’t dry out your pout.

Key Features:

  • Semi-matte feel
  • Great for bold statements
  • Long-wear performance

6. Milani Colour Statement Lipstick – $6.99

Best For: Creamy finish and comfort

Shade to Try: “Teddy Bare”

Milani brings high-end vibes with a lush formula packed with vitamins A and C. Plus, the packaging feels luxe without the hefty price.

Perks:

  • Rich pigment payoff
  • Slightly glossy finish
  • Delicious watermelon scent

7. CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lipstick Cream – $7.99

Best For: Moisture-rich formula

Shade to Try: “Romantic Mauve”

This creamy lipstick glides on like butter and hydrates lips throughout the day. It’s a great pick for those who want colour and care in one tube.

Why it’s popular:

  • No feathering
  • Comfortable for long hours
  • Excellent nude and mauve options

8. NYX Butter Gloss – $5.00

Best For: Glossy lovers

Shade to Try: “Praline” or “Tiramisu”

OK, this one isn’t a traditional lipstick — but it deserves a spot for gloss fans. It gives juicy shine, just enough tint, and zero stickiness.

Bonus points for:

  • Layering over mattes
  • Non-greasy feel
  • Sweet scent

9. L.A. Girl Matte Flat Velvet Lipstick – $4.99

Best For: Bold colour on a tight budget

Shade to Try: “Hush” or “Snuggle”

This highly pigmented matte lipstick offers unbeatable colour payoff. It stays put for hours and feels surprisingly luxe for under a fiver.

Why it’s a winner:

  • Vitamin E infused
  • Surprisingly soft for a matte
  • Available in both neutrals and daring shades

A close-up of a sleek, rose gold lipstick tube with a deep purple shade, partially opened, showcasing its creamy texture.

10. Essence This Is Me. Lipstick – $3.99

Best For: Everyday nudes

Shade to Try: “03 Bold”

Essence’s “This Is Me.” range is a hidden gem for nude lovers. The satin finish is comfortable and smooth, and the bullet is great for precise application.

Top reasons to try:

  • Beautiful neutral tones
  • Soft creamy feel
  • Minimalistic packaging

Get the Most from Your Cheap Lipstick

Even a $3 lipstick can feel like luxury if you prep and apply it right. Here’s how to make yours last and look great:

Exfoliate First

Use a lip scrub or toothbrush to buff away flakes. A smooth base = better application.

Prime Your Lips

A dab of foundation or lip primer helps even tone and makes colour pop.

Line for Definition

Even with budget lippies, a liner helps define shape and prevents feathering.

Blot and Layer

Apply one layer, blot with tissue, and apply a second for better hold.

Affordable Lipstick for Different Moods

Lipstick is emotional — the colour you wear often reflects how you feel. Here’s how to match your mood to your bullet:

Mood Shade Type Recommended Product
Confident Bold Red Wet n Wild “Stoplight Red”
Flirty Soft Pink NYX Soft Matte in “Cannes”
Calm Nude Mauve Essence “03 Bold”
Playful Glossy Peach NYX Butter Gloss in “Tiramisu”
Fierce Dark Berry Revlon “Black Cherry”


Conclusion: Affordable Lipsticks with Luxe Vibes

Lipstick has the power to boost confidence, express personality, and elevate your whole look — and as we’ve proven, you don’t need to splurge to enjoy it. These cheap lipsticks bring all the style and pigment you crave for under $10.

Whether you’re a matte fanatic, a gloss goddess, or a creamy classic lover, there’s an affordable lipstick waiting to join your makeup bag. So next time you feel the itch for a new lip colour, skip the splurge and head to your local chemist instead.

Read about the Best Drugstore Foundations for Flawless Skin to match your new lipstick perfectly.