The lipstick landscape of 2023 has been nothing short of revolutionary, with Marie Claire cosmetics leading the charge in defining what modern lip color means. From the resurgence of bold mattes to the unexpected comeback of sheer, buildable formulas, this year’s trends reflect a beauty industry that’s finally listening to what consumers actually want: performance, inclusivity, and genuine innovation. Whether you’re a lipstick devotee or someone exploring cosmetics for beginners, understanding these trends will help you make informed choices about which products deserve a spot in your makeup collection.
As a makeup enthusiast and skincare-focused beauty writer, I’ve observed that 2023’s lipstick trends aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re deeply connected to ingredient quality, formula technology, and how these products interact with different lip skin types. The best lipsticks of this year prioritize lip health alongside color payoff, incorporating nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and plant-based conditioning agents. This shift toward performance-based formulations means that investing in quality lipsticks from reputable brands actually supports your lip health rather than compromising it.
Understanding Marie Claire’s influence on the beauty industry requires recognizing their editorial philosophy: inclusivity, sustainability, and scientific backing. The magazine has consistently championed brands that combine aesthetic appeal with ingredient transparency, setting trends that prioritize consumer education. This comprehensive guide explores the most significant lipstick trends of 2023, breaking down the formulas, color palettes, and application techniques that define the year’s most coveted lip products.
Saturated Matte Finishes Make a Statement
The resurgence of saturated matte lipsticks in 2023 marks a deliberate departure from the glossy, liquid-lipstick-dominated trends of previous years. Marie Claire’s beauty editors have championed this shift, recognizing that matte formulas—when properly formulated—offer superior color payoff and longevity without sacrificing comfort. The key to this trend’s success lies in modern formula technology that prevents the drying, patchy appearance that plagued matte lipsticks of the past.
Contemporary matte lipsticks now incorporate silicone-based polymers, film-forming agents, and emollients that create a seamless, even color deposit. Brands featured in Marie Claire’s coverage have invested in proprietary technologies that ensure these formulas adhere to lips without flaking or settling into fine lines. The best matte lipsticks of 2023 contain humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid derivatives that draw moisture to the lips, counteracting the traditional drying effect of matte finishes.
Color-wise, 2023’s matte trend celebrates both bold and subtle expressions. Deep burgundies, rich terracottas, and sophisticated wine tones dominate the luxury segment, while more accessible options through budget cosmetic brands provide similar color stories at lower price points. The inclusivity of matte shades across undertones—from warm to cool to neutral—reflects Marie Claire’s commitment to serving diverse beauty consumers. Whether your undertones lean warm, cool, or neutral, you’ll find matte lipsticks designed specifically for your complexion.
Application technique matters significantly when wearing saturated mattes. Using a lip liner in a matching shade creates definition and prevents feathering, while a light lip primer creates a smooth canvas that enhances formula performance. Many beauty professionals recommend applying matte lipstick with a brush rather than directly from the tube, as this allows for more precise placement and even color distribution.
Sheer Tints and Buildable Coverage Dominate
Counterintuitively, 2023 also saw an unprecedented surge in sheer, tinted lip products that prioritize transparency and buildability. This trend reflects a broader beauty philosophy that celebrates natural lip color while offering enhancement and customization. Sheer tints work beautifully across diverse lip pigmentation levels, making them universally flattering—a consideration that aligns perfectly with Marie Claire’s inclusive beauty messaging.
The appeal of sheer tints extends beyond aesthetics. These formulas typically contain nourishing base ingredients that function almost like lip treatments, with botanical extracts, oils, and conditioning agents comprising significant portions of the formula. Unlike heavy matte formulas, sheer tints allow lips to breathe while still providing color and shine. The buildable nature means you control coverage intensity: a single layer for a barely-there tint, or multiple applications for deeper color saturation.
Brands like Thrive Cosmetics have capitalized on this trend, creating sheer formulas that emphasize clean ingredients without sacrificing performance. These products often skip synthetic dyes in favor of natural colorants derived from fruits, flowers, and minerals. The result is a more transparent, authentic-looking lip color that feels modern and effortless—perfect for the “no-makeup makeup” aesthetic that continues influencing beauty trends.
The versatility of sheer tints makes them essential for anyone building a functional lipstick collection. They layer beautifully over matte formulas, creating dimension and preventing that heavy, flat appearance. They also transition seamlessly from day to evening wear, adapting to different occasions simply through varied application intensity. For those interested in cosmetics for beginners, sheer tints represent an excellent starting point because they’re forgiving, flattering, and teach proper application technique without the pressure of bold color commitment.
Sustainable and Clean Beauty Formulations
2023 marked a watershed moment for sustainable beauty in mainstream cosmetics, with Marie Claire consistently highlighting brands that prioritize environmental responsibility alongside product performance. The lipstick category has become a focal point for this movement, with consumers increasingly scrutinizing packaging, ingredient sourcing, and manufacturing practices.
Clean beauty formulations—products free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and other controversial ingredients—dominate Marie Claire’s beauty coverage. These formulations rely on plant-derived preservative systems, natural emulsifiers, and botanical pigments to achieve color and stability. Interestingly, clean formulations often perform comparably to conventional products, dispelling the myth that excluding certain ingredients compromises quality.
Sustainable packaging represents another crucial trend element. Leading brands have transitioned to refillable lipstick systems, compostable packaging materials, and recyclable components. Some premium brands now offer refillable lipstick cases with replaceable color cores, dramatically reducing waste while maintaining product quality and consistency. This approach appeals to environmentally conscious consumers without requiring them to sacrifice aesthetic appeal or performance.
The sourcing of ingredients has become increasingly transparent, with brands publishing detailed information about where they source botanical extracts, oils, and other key components. Fair trade certification, organic farming practices, and direct relationships with ingredient suppliers demonstrate commitment to ethical beauty. Marie Claire’s editorial team often features interviews with beauty chemists and sustainability experts, providing readers with scientific context for these choices.
Personalized Lip Color for Every Skin Tone
Perhaps the most significant trend of 2023 is the explosion of inclusive color ranges specifically designed for diverse skin tones. Marie Claire has championed this shift relentlessly, recognizing that traditional beauty standards perpetuated a limited color palette that flattered primarily fair skin tones. Modern lipstick collections now include 30, 40, or even 50+ shades specifically formulated to complement different complexions.
Understanding which lipstick shades complement your skin tone involves considering undertone, depth, and contrast. Warm undertones typically glow with peachy, coral, and golden-toned reds. Cool undertones shine in berry, blue-toned reds, and mauve shades. Neutral undertones have flexibility across the spectrum but often look stunning in true reds and warm-cool hybrid shades. Skin depth affects how much contrast works—deeper skin tones can carry bolder, more saturated shades, while lighter skin tones might prefer softer, more delicate hues.
Luxury brands like Hera Cosmetics have invested significantly in expansive, thoughtfully curated color ranges that reflect genuine diversity rather than tokenistic inclusion. These collections acknowledge that beauty exists across all skin tones and that everyone deserves access to lipsticks that make them feel confident and beautiful. The investment in inclusive color ranges represents both an ethical stance and a business recognition that diverse consumers have significant purchasing power.
Personalization extends beyond color selection. Many brands now offer consultation tools, virtual try-on technology, and detailed shade descriptions that help consumers identify their perfect lipstick match. This technology-enabled approach democratizes beauty expertise, making professional color-matching guidance accessible to everyone regardless of location or economic status.
Hybrid Formulas Blur Category Lines
Innovation in 2023 produced hybrid lipstick formulas that combine characteristics of multiple product categories. These formulas represent the intersection of beauty chemistry and consumer demand, offering features that traditional lipsticks couldn’t provide. The most successful hybrids merge the long-wear properties of liquid lipsticks with the comfort of traditional creamy formulas, or combine matte pigmentation with glossy finishes.
One particularly successful hybrid category combines matte color with subtle shine and moisture, achieved through specialized wax blends and light-reflecting pigments. These formulas deliver saturated, dimensional color that photographs beautifully while feeling comfortable throughout the day. Another popular hybrid merges tint and treatment, incorporating significant percentages of nourishing oils and butters while maintaining impressive color payoff and longevity.
Hybrid formulas often incorporate hyaluronic acid and other hydrating ingredients that elevate lipsticks beyond mere color delivery. These products function simultaneously as cosmetics and lip treatments, supporting lip health even during extended wear. The chemistry behind these formulations is remarkably sophisticated, requiring precise balancing of ingredients to prevent separation, ensure stability, and deliver consistent performance.
The appeal of hybrid formulas extends to application and versatility. These products work across multiple occasions, transitioning seamlessly from professional settings to casual environments. They offer flexibility in how they’re worn—building to full coverage or sheer application—making them practical for consumers with varied beauty needs and preferences.
Ingredient Innovation and Lip Health
2023 witnessed unprecedented focus on lip health as a core component of lipstick formulation. This shift reflects growing consumer awareness that lips are uniquely delicate—lacking oil glands and featuring thinner skin than facial skin. Quality lipsticks actively support lip health rather than compromising it, incorporating science-backed ingredients that condition, protect, and nourish.
Key ingredients dominating 2023 formulations include hyaluronic acid (in various molecular weights for surface and deep hydration), plant-derived squalane (which mimics skin’s natural oils), vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant), and peptides (which support skin structure). Many brands now include botanical extracts with proven benefits—green tea for antioxidant protection, rosehip for vitamin A content, and various plant oils for conditioning.
The science of lipstick formulation has evolved significantly, with brands investing in research demonstrating that their products actively improve lip condition over time. Clinical studies show that quality formulations can reduce dryness, improve texture, and enhance natural lip color intensity through consistent use. This represents a fundamental shift from viewing lipstick as a temporary cosmetic to recognizing it as a product that contributes to overall lip health.
Preservative systems have also evolved, with many brands moving toward natural alternatives like vitamin E tocopherols, rosemary extract, and various plant-derived preservatives. These alternatives maintain product stability and safety while appealing to consumers concerned about synthetic ingredients. The efficacy of these systems has improved dramatically, with modern formulations lasting 2-3 years without spoilage or separation.
Understanding ingredient lists empowers consumers to make informed choices aligned with their values and skin needs. Marie Claire’s coverage consistently emphasizes ingredient transparency, providing readers with resources to research components and understand their functions. This educational approach elevates beauty consumption, transforming it from impulse-driven purchasing to intentional, informed decision-making.
FAQ
What makes a lipstick formula long-wearing without feeling dry?
The best long-wearing formulas balance film-forming polymers (which provide adhesion and longevity) with substantial quantities of emollients and humectants. Modern matte lipsticks include silicones, plant-derived waxes, and hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These components work synergistically to create formulas that adhere to lips without the flaking or uncomfortable tightness associated with older matte formulations. The key is proper ingredient balance—too many polymers create dryness, while insufficient film-formers compromise longevity.
How do I choose between matte and sheer lipstick finishes?
Matte finishes offer maximum color payoff and longevity, making them ideal for bold statements and extended wear situations. Sheer finishes provide natural-looking enhancement and often feel more comfortable, perfect for everyday wear and those preferring subtle color. Consider your lifestyle, personal aesthetic, and lip health—if your lips tend toward dryness, sheer formulas might feel more comfortable, while those with naturally hydrated lips can comfortably wear mattes. Many beauty enthusiasts maintain both types, selecting based on occasion and preference.
Are clean beauty lipsticks as effective as conventional formulas?
Modern clean beauty lipsticks perform comparably to conventional products when formulated by knowledgeable cosmetic chemists. The exclusion of certain synthetic ingredients doesn’t inherently compromise performance—it simply requires different approaches to preservation, pigmentation, and formula stability. Many clean brands have invested significantly in research and development, creating products that deliver excellent color payoff, longevity, and comfort. The deciding factor is brand reputation and formulation expertise rather than whether a product is labeled “clean.”
What’s the difference between lipstick undertones and my skin undertone?
Lipstick undertones refer to the base color family of the pigments used—warm (peachy, golden), cool (blue, purple), or neutral (balanced across the spectrum). Your skin undertone is the underlying hue beneath your skin’s surface—similarly categorized as warm, cool, or neutral. Matching lipstick undertones to your skin undertone typically creates the most flattering results, as complementary undertones enhance overall complexion harmony. However, personal preference always takes precedence—if you love a shade that doesn’t technically match your undertone, wear it confidently.
How should I apply lipstick for the best results?
Proper application begins with lip preparation—exfoliate gently to remove dead skin, apply lip balm if needed, and blot away excess moisture. Use a lip liner in a matching shade to define lips and prevent feathering. Apply lipstick with a brush for precision and even color distribution, working from the center outward. For mattes, a single application usually suffices, while sheer formulas often benefit from multiple layers to build desired intensity. Set with a light powder for extended wear, or skip this step for a more natural finish. Practice and experimentation help develop personal technique preferences.
