Sometimes, the gap between wanting to wear makeup and actually putting it on is wide. The desire is there but, for whatever reason, you can’t wrap your head around all of the steps it will take to get there, let alone prepping your skin beforehand. That’s why lip and cheek sticks should have prime real estate in your makeup arsenal. These multitasking formulas can be applied to the lips, cheeks, and even the eyes in less than half the time of a traditional makeup routine.
Unlike powders, the creamy texture of lip and cheek sticks guarantees a seamless blend with staying power and coverage that won’t clog pores. When choosing your preferred tool, there are two factors to keep in mind: color and application method. First, you’ll want a color that complements your skin tone. Remember, this is a shade that will cover multiple parts of the face, so it should flatter—not fall flat. Second, take note of how the color is applied. Choosing a product that feels awkward in your hand would defeat the purpose of its convenience.
How We Found The Best Lip And Cheek Sticks
Speaking of convenience, we saved you some work and gathered the best options across a variety of colors, finishes, and applicator types. As always, this list was put together with the help of our super smart and unbiased algorithm. This proprietary tool identifies products using a variety of data from expert recommendations, word-of-mouth on social media, and best-seller lists. Scroll and swipe your way to an effortless makeup look below.
September 8, 2022
Written By:Rank & Style
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick
Overall Score
4.65
10
Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick
4.73
1329 User Reviews
3.1
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Luxury
WHAT IT DOES: This clean and hydrating stick was made to provide a bright, “baby-fresh” complexion. Its creamy texture and soft blend are soothing to the skin, especially because they're free of harmful ingredients such as sulfates and parabens. All in all, it brings the best of both worlds, combining beauty and wellness in one neat package.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This cult-favorite stick is available in six pink-peachy shades that can be mixed and matched to create multiple looks.
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Merit Beauty Flush Balm
Overall Score
4.65
09
Merit Beauty Flush Balm
4.4
1885 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Light Coverage
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: This mini, TSA-friendly balm is perfect for radiant cheeks on the go. Designed to highlight natural beauty, it provides a flexible, buildable formula that fulfills your needs. As soft as it is lightweight, this stick is sure to add a pop of color without weighing you down.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Available in five gorgeous shades, you'll be able to easily find one to give you that ideal flushed look—just like its name suggests.
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Eco Friendly
Cruelty Free
Burt's Bees Lip And Cheek Stick
Overall Score
4.7
08
Burt's Bees Lip And Cheek Stick
4.5
5258 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Clean Beauty
USER REVIEW: "I just purchased this product in Suez Sands. I was on the hunt for an affordable cream product and this is it. On my skin the color appears to be the perfect mauvey pink shade with a dash of peach. I am very fair, and this is my perfect shade and matches my lip color to a T. It also leaves my skin with a beautiful, natural glow. I will most definitely be purchasing more colors."
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Burt's Bees never fails to impress, but this formula goes above and beyond. Not only is it free of toxins, parabens, and fragrances, but it's also dermatologist-tested—so you know this is legit.
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Cruelty Free
Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick
Overall Score
4.7
07
Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick
4.2
1635 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Balm
WHY YOU NEED IT: Two words: satin finish. This lip and cheek stick blends seamlessly so your skin looks as soft and smooth as the fabric. Plus, it's buildable—with just a few sweeps, your cheeks can be as dewy as you desire.
STYLE WITH: For a cute, monochromatic look, expand this stick to the eyelids as well for an eyeshadow look that matches the rest perfectly.
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Cruelty Free
Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip And Cheek Stain
Overall Score
4.7
06
Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip And Cheek Stain
4.55
5865 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Shade Adjusting
WHAT IT DOES: Formulated with a hydrating blend of olive butter, avocado butter, and wild rose wax, this lip and cheek stain adjusts to your unique chemistry to create a flattering shade that will jive with your skin's unique undertones. How cool is that?
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Available in three shades, this lip and cheek stick is suitable for all skin types.
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Cruelty Free
E.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick
Overall Score
4.75
05
E.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick
4.26
13905 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: This shimmery multi-stick is full of energy. For radiant cheekbones, there's no better formula thanks to its smooth finish and blendable color. Speaking of color, this one packs a serious punch without going overboard—taking sun-kissed to a whole new level.
INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: Not only is this multi-stick free of toxins, but it aslo contains nourishing shea butter and vitamin E for a refreshing boost.
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Nudestix Nudies Matte Blush & Bronze
Overall Score
4.8
04
Nudestix Nudies Matte Blush & Bronze
4.55
3352 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best With A Brush
WHO IT'S FOR: If you're always on the go, this lip and cheek stick is for you. The compact case includes a handy mirror and attached makeup brush for an easy, mess-free application.
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: This long-lasting formula will deliver a flawless look long after your day is over—we're talking all-day color that won't budge, feather, or fall victim to humid temperatures. Matte and monochromatic, this stick brings out the skin's natural beauty for a subtle, elegant finish.
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Cruelty Free
Nars The Multiple Stick
Overall Score
4.85
03
Nars The Multiple Stick
4.42
4545 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Cream To Powder
WHO IT'S FOR: This ultra-nourishing stick is ideal for dry skin in need of a shine boost. The creamy formula contains beneficial antioxidants like vitamin E and açai oil which protect skin while leaving a radiant flush. Bonus points for the shimmery finish.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Love the brand’s iconic “Orgasm” blush? We have good news: you can get that exact shade in this stick formula.
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Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm
Overall Score
4.9
02
Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm
4.66
2212 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Balm
WHAT IT DOES: Suitable for use on both the lips and cheeks, this oil-free stick delivers a subtle wash of color that’s easy to blend and build. Just dot it onto the apples of your cheeks and blend along the cheekbone for a natural-looking, flushed finish.
USER REVIEW: "Excellent price, soft lovely color, applies so smoothly and evenly. Easy to blend. Amazing value and great quality. Would definitely purchase again."
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Ilia Multi-Stick
Overall Score
4.95
01
Ilia Multi-Stick
4.53
6077 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Multitasking
WHAT IT DOES: This natural-looking, fragrance-free color packs in the moisture with avocado oil and shea butter. Despite its miniature stature, the formula is as versatile as it is powerful—and perfect for doing your makeup on the go. But there's no need to fret about any oversaturation, this stick blends to a natural, healthy finish.
USER REVIEW: "Dewy, creamy, and such a beautiful color! Upon application, this product feels luxurious. I have used similar products before from Tarte etc., and the texture was always a bit off. I purchased this in the Go Clean Sephora Favorites bag, and while I would not have chosen this shade, the color actually looks so natural and beautiful, is buildable, and is nurturing to my dry skin. I also noticed that it plays well with others and does not cause pilling or splotchiness when combined with skincare or makeup. I really want to try ALL of the Ilia product line now!"
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Cruelty Free
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