My Favorite Affordable Drugstore Lip Products for Summer 2025
Let’s talk about the one thing I always have in my bag—lip products. Whether I’m heading to a casual brunch, shooting content, or running errands in the Charleston heat, I need hydrating, long-lasting, and summer-proof formulas.
The best part? Every product on this list is affordable, easy to find at the drugstore, and worth the hype. If you’re looking to update your summer lip lineup without breaking the bank, these are the MVPs you’ll want to keep close.
Maybelline Lifter Liner (Shades: Peaking + Out of Line)
This liner is so underrated—it glides on effortlessly, lasts all day, and gives your lips a super smooth, defined shape.
- Rust gives that warm summer flush—perfect with bronzy makeup.
- Nude Sand is your go-with-everything neutral, ideal for everyday wear.
It doesn’t tug, doesn’t feather, and feels like a much more luxe product than its price tag suggests. These are now a staple in all my go-to lip combos.
✏️ NYX Lip Liner in “Los Angeles”
This shade is famous for a reason. It’s a soft, slightly brown nude that literally goes with everything.
I reach for it when I want something less pink and more neutral—it’s the ultimate cool-girl shade that gives structure without overpowering your look.
Pairs beautifully with balms, glosses, or even layered under lipsticks to soften bolder shades.
💋 ColourPop Fresh Kiss Lip Balm
Don’t let the word “balm” fool you—this delivers serious color payoff. It gives me that high-end tinted lip balm feel with a fruity scent and long-lasting hydration.
It’s perfect for those “no makeup” makeup days or when you want a hint of color with comfort.
It glides on effortlessly, and the finish is that juicy, healthy-lip glow we’re all chasing in the summer.
🌙 Neutrogena Lip Sleeping Mask
This one’s a Tatcha dupe alert. I’ve been using this as part of my nightly skincare routine and even during the day when I want max hydration without gloss.
- It’s thick but not sticky
- No scent
- Keeps my lips soft all night long
If your lips get dry from the sun or saltwater, this is a must-have.
💥 NYX LIP IV Drip Lip Stain
If you love high pigment and all-day wear, this is your new obsession. One swipe of this and the color stays—we’re talking drinks, dinner, and beyond.
I love how the stain effect lasts even after the glossy top layer wears off, giving you a just-bitten look that’s still polished.
🖊️ Maybelline Super Stay Ink Crayon
This is hands-down one of my most asked-about lip combos. It glides on like a crayon, stays in place like a matte lipstick, and comes in so many flattering shades.
It’s comfortable, easy to apply (no sharpener needed), and holds up through Charleston humidity, coffee sips, and full-day shoots.
This is the one I keep in every bag—yes, it’s that good.
Final Thoughts: Affordable Doesn’t Mean Compromise
Each of these products holds its own against luxury formulas, and what I love most is that you can mix and match depending on the day, mood, or outfit. Whether you’re into balmy hydration, glossy shine, or high-impact pigment, there’s something here that fits the vibe and the budget.
