We put 4 long-lasting lipsticks to the ultimate date-night test—Here’s what survived dinner

We’re all for doing your own thing and playing by your own rules—but when date night calls (especially when it’s Valentine’s Day), your lipstick might need a little strategy. Will there be greasy mains involved? Endless champagne refills? A full day that rolls into night? And, most importantly, the potential for a goodnight kiss? Whatever the scenario, the last thing you want is colour migrating beyond your lip line. 

To help you armour up for the occasion, beauty editor Letty Seah puts four of the newest long-lasting lipsticks through the paces to see which formulas hold their ground—no matter what’s on the menu, from coffee dates to spicy soups.

For coffee and cocktails: NARS Afterglow Lip Balm, $45

Model is wearing the shade #257 Hot Line. 

If you’ll be sipping beverages throughout the day, you want a lip product that delivers a whisper of colour without demanding constant touch-ups. NARS Afterglow does just that, offering an impressive payoff for a balm. The angled, flat-tip bullet makes it easy to trace the curves of your lips, while the subtle blurring effect lets you overline slightly for a soft, diffused pout. On me, it lasted a solid five hours—including a coffee break—leaving just a gentle flush behind. Low-mess and effortlessly wearable, it’s perfect for any occasion, even a first date with someone new.

For desserts: Glow Recipe Glass Balm, $34

Model is wearing the shade Coconut Bingsoo. 

High-shine lipsticks don’t have to come at the expense of your dessert. Glow Recipe’s Glass Balm delivers vibrant colour while staying put, even through cake or pastries—no lipstick traces left on your spoon. The glossy layer may soften slightly with each bite, but the colour itself remains intact. The small, precise applicator makes touch-ups effortless, giving you just the right amount of product without overloading your lips—or leaving any marks behind.

For hot pot: M.A.C PowderKiss Lip + Cheek Mousse

Model is wearing the shade 956 Warm Hug.

Nothing puts a lipstick to the ultimate test like an oily, spicy, soupy broth—and I’m pleased to report that the M.A.C PowderKiss Lip + Cheek Mousse passes with flying colours. The hourglass applicator traces the contours of your lips with ease, while the blurring effect softens the appearance of fine lines. It’s not transfer-proof—you’ll notice some on tissues, cups, or even your date’s cheek—but once it sets, the colour gently fades into a lighter, diffused stain, maintaining a soft, blurred finish even through your piping-hot broth. Despite being matte, my lips didn’t feel tight or uncomfortable. One essential step before applying: exfoliate, so the mousse glides on evenly and avoids any flakes.

For pizza: Armani Beauty Lip Maestro Magnet, $63

Model is wearing the shade #400 Magnet Red. 

Greasy foods are a lipstick’s worst enemy—there’s a reason makeup remover usually contains oil to break down stubborn pigment. True to its name, Armani Beauty Lip Maestro Magnet sticks to your lips like, well, a magnet. Despite its incredible staying power, it feels weightless and comfortable (I even napped with it on and woke up to see it still in place). The tear-shaped applicator makes precise application effortless. After a full meal, it softens slightly, leaving a more muted, yet still polished version of the original shade.

Credits

Photography Angela Guo

Art Direction Adeline Eng

Makeup Lasalle Lee

Hair Aung Apichai/Arly, using Kevin.Murphy & Tuft