Our top pick? Sisley’s Phyto-Lip Twist Lipstick >
Regardless of how basic your makeup regimen is, it’s safe to assume that you possess more than one lipstick in your cosmetics collection. Lipsticks are indispensable beauty items that significantly alter our appearance; a simple application can make you appear refined, well-coordinated, and prepared to conquer the world. However, selecting the perfect lipstick(s) can be quite a task.
Of course, shade plays a crucial role in deciding (a mix of nude, red, and pink lipsticks rarely disappoints). But what about the texture? Do you favour a glossy and smooth finish or a pigmented matte one? Perhaps you lean towards liquid lacquers? Or traditional lipstick bullets? And let’s not forget about the cost factor…
But fear not! The task of shopping for lipsticks needn’t be so daunting. We’ve curated our top 7 recommendations highlighting the best French lipsticks available considering all essential factors. Enjoy!
#1 — Best French Lipstick Overall
Our best overall lipstick is one that not only enhances your beauty but also nourishes your lips. Sisley’s luxurious Phyto-Lip Twist Lipstick perfectly fits this description. It’s a breeze to apply, comfortable to wear, and gives you a stunning look. A single “twist” application leaves your lips feeling hydrated, plump, and visibly smooth due to its unique blend of plant-based active ingredients.
One key ingredient is phytosqualane—a natural variant of squalane—which hydrates and softens the lips whilst preserving their elasticity. The lipstick comes in a range of luminous shades that are versatile “enough” for any occasion, ranging from the most subtle “nude” to the most vibrant hues. The melting texture glides effortlessly on your lips and offers an irresistibly addictive sensation. Our editor swears by it and never leaves home without it!
#2 — Best French Red Lipstick
The moniker is virtually interchangeable with the “most iconic of French lipstick”, and as we discussed in our review of Best French Makeup Brands, nothing screams iconic more than a Chanel rouge lipstick. The newest version of the renowned Chanel range is Rouge Allure, “a lipstick that feels as smooth and cozy as velvet.”
It offers your lips an indulgence in rich velvety hues with a matte yet glowing finish, creating an awe-inspiring second-skin effect. The wizardry behind this marvel lies in three key elements:
- Ultra-fine, pure and highly concentrated pigments for vibrant colours;
- Soft focus microspheres that provide both a matte and radiant finish;
- A derivative of jojoba oil for polished lips.
#3 — Best Sheer French Lipstick
The rising popularity of the no-makeup makeup trend is seeing an increased preference for ‘sheer’ lipsticks, also referred to as natural-finish or gentle colour lipsticks. By pairing the best French BB Cream with a hint of eyeliner and sheer lipstick, one can effortlessly create a flawless French au naturel look.
Amongst the elite of sheer French lipsticks is Givenchy’s Le-Rouge-A-Porter Whipped Lipstick. This versatile product, easy to apply, offers a choice of 16 radiant shades housed in an elegantly slim silver and leather tube adorned with subtle stud accents.
Its natural finish emanates from a blend of sheer pigments that provide light coverage and gentle colouring along with hyaluronic acid microspheres that ensure long-term comfort and hydration.
#4 — Best Shiny French Lipstick
If you’re a fan of the mirror-like finish that gloss provides, yet not so much its sticky feel, then this is tailor-made for you. YSL’s Volupte Shine lip formula presents an alluring color and covetable rouge pout effect while offering six oils that provide *six* distinct advantages to your lips – hydration, high shine, utmost comfort, ultra-melting, captivating luminosity and sensual smoothness.
The blend of Hyaluronic acid, anti-oxidants and emollients works to nourish and soften your lips from the inside out rather than just improving their external appearance.
#5 — Best Luxury French Lipstick
If you’re contemplating a significant investment in a luxury beauty product or simply wish to indulge yourself, Dior is an excellent choice. With nearly a hundred years of reigning supreme over the high-end beauty industry, not just in France but globally, the brand’s quality is consistently awe-inspiring. Their lipsticks have achieved legendary status and though the price might cause one to gasp initially, they are unquestionably worth the indulgence.
The latest Rouge Dior lipstick is more contemporary and opulent than ever before, featuring a unique signature band with CD initials reminiscent of their House’s runway look’s fitted waists. It contains natural extracts of red peony and pomegranate flower and offers an array of *70* vibrant colours in satin, matte, metallic or velvet finishes.
#6 — Best Budget French Lipstick
In the realm of lipsticks, achieving a stunning, catwalk-ready smile doesn’t necessitate a hefty price tag. L’Oreal’s Colour Riche Lipcolour lipstick, priced at approximately five dollars (indeed, that’s accurate), could easily be mistaken for an upscale designer brand.
Infused with beneficial ingredients such as Omega 3, Vitamin E, and Argan Oil, this lipstick ensures your lips remain supple, sleek and fully moisturized. With an array of eye-catching shades to choose from, you can experience the opulence of a high-end French lipstick without straining your budget.
#7 — Best Long-lasting French Lipstick
The vexation of a lipstick that fades too soon is an all-too-familiar annoyance. It leaves one feeling insecure throughout the day, incessantly questioning when it was last reapplied. However, a solution to this perennial issue exists in the form of ‘long-lasting’ lipstick, and Bourjois proudly presents one of the finest examples.
Introducing Bourjois Rouge Velvet The Lipstick, an exquisite long-lasting lipstick that maintains your lips’ moisture. Its distinctive formula’s secret lies in the combination of moisturizing waxes with lightweight oils and rich pigments, resulting in a velvet-soft finish that truly stands out.
If you seek a precise lipstick offering intense matte color with endurance and a light feel, this product will deliver up to 24 hours of continuous glamour with just one application.
BONUS — Best French Lip Gloss
If you’re seeking a fashionable, glossy finish for your lips, lip gloss is unrivaled. It has significantly evolved since its heyday in the early 2000s, offering enhanced hydration and a stunning finish devoid of any stickiness. A prime example is Laura Mercier’s renowned Lip Glac. This superior lip gloss provides intense color and high-shine, contributing to fuller-looking lips.
Its unique formulation combines moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant and plumping ingredients for a non-sticky application that doesn’t feather or bleed, ensuring enduring shine – simply exquisite! For alternatives, consider perusing our article on the best French lip balms featuring top tinted balms and essential winter lip care products.
Conclusion
Finding the best French lipstick is an essential step towards achieving a polished and sophisticated look. The top 7 picks highlighted in this article, from brands like Givenchy, Chanel, Dior, and more, offer high-quality options for every style and preference.
They not only provide stunning colors but also nourishing ingredients that ensure your lips stay hydrated throughout the day. So go ahead, indulge in one of these luxurious French lipsticks and experience the allure and charm of Parisian beauty today.
