Best-Selling Lipstick Types in the UK and Why Customers Love Them

Lipstick has also held a very strong position in the cosmetic market. No makeup is complete without lipstick, be it matte or gloss, as it is the most essential part of any look, with the ability to make or break it. But that’s not all; the high sales of lipstick in the UK aren’t a new trend. Its history as one of the top-selling products goes back decades, even before full-glam makeups and social media trends existed. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that its sales have only grown stronger over time, thanks to the addition of more colours, diverse formulations, different textures, and added benefits. Today, almost every major brand has its own lipstick range, including Clarins, Estée Lauder, Lancôme, Dior, and Chanel. As a retailer, it can become a hard choice to make, which brands to choose, which type to focus on, and which colours to stock.

Here’s a detailed guide on understanding the top-selling types of lipstick in the UK, so you can set up your shelf more efficiently and attract more customers, guiding each client toward the lipstick choice that best matches their preferences. This approach not only personalises their experience but also helps you gently lead them toward a buying decision, ultimately resulting in more sales.

Top-Selling Lipstick Types

1. Creamy Lipsticks

In the cold and dry atmosphere of the UK, one type of lipstick that stands out is the creamy one, which add colour to the lips without making them dry or patchy, even in colder weather.

• Texture: These lipsticks have a soft and smooth texture, which makes the lips look moisturised with natural oils, vitamin E, and shea butter, much like a rich formulation.
• Finish: Creamy lipsticks have a rich and soft finish, but are usually not too matte, not too shiny.
• Best for: Dry and mature lips.

2. Matte Liquid Lipsticks

Another popular choice of lipstick in the UK, this product gives your lips shape and definition with its long-lasting coverage. The reason it is most loved is that with matte liquid lipsticks, there’s no need for constant touch-ups and no risk of transfer or smudging.

• Texture: This type of lipstick is lightweight with a velvety texture.
• Finish: Matte liquid lipsticks typically have rich pigment, without any shine.
• Best for: Long events and photoshoots due to its long-lasting finish.

3. Lip Tints

Lip tints, also commonly known as lip stains, are the most loved product in cosmetics. These tints are loved for their versatility and come in different formulations that suit every style. That’s precisely why they’ve stayed in trend for so long. With shades and finishes that appeal to all age groups, lip tints easily fit into everyone’s makeup routine.

• Texture: Tints are available in different textures, from creamy to water and gel-based. Very lightweight and simple to apply.
• Finish: It absorbs into the lips, leaving a subtle shade on the lips for a natural appearance.
• Best for: Everyday use, a natural no-makeup look, or layering under gloss.

4. Satin Finish Lipstick

Then comes the best-selling classic lipstick in the UK, a satin lipstick. That is perfect for those who want something that provides a matte-like finish while keeping lips moisturised like creamy lipsticks.

• Texture: Smooth, rich, hydrating, without feeling sticky on lips.
• Finish: Soft, shiny and highly pigmented for the perfect and polished finish.
• Best for: Dry lips, evening makeup or any event.

5. Glossy Lipstick

Glossy lipsticks are mostly made from oils to add shine, provide a hydrating effect, and promote healthier lips. So, for customers of all age groups, looking for lipstick that makes their lips fuller and adds a shiny look, this one stands out among all.

• Texture: Lip gloss has a thick and glossy texture.
• Finish: It provides a shiny finish, with a light pigment and a plump appearance.
• Best for: Dry lips or colder weather, and a great alternative to lip balm.

6. Lip Crayons / Pencils

Lip crayons and lip pencils are great tools to provide coverage and definition. Their formulation includes oils and pigment merged to give a smoother glide and strong pigment, one reason why this product is also among the top sellers in the lipstick category in the UK.

• Texture: These lip pencils or crayons have a creamy texture.
• Finish: Depending on the product, some offer matte or semi-matte finish, while others may have a satin finish.
• Best for: Creating a base for lipstick layering, acting as a lip liner to define lip shape or for a long-lasting effect.