How to Choose the Best Organic Lip Stain for Your Skin Tone

The health benefits of choosing an organic lip stain with tips on how to choose the best organic lip stain to complement your skin tone.

In this guide, we delve into the world of organic lip stains, exploring their health benefits, what sets them apart from conventional lip products, and how to select the perfect shade based on your skin tone.

Quick Summary: Organic Lip Stain Brands We Love

• 1) Most Nourishing: NOTO Botanics - Organic Genet Multi-Benne Stain Stick

• 2) Most Versatile: Ere Perez - Natural Beetroot Lip Stain + Cheek Tint

• 3) Best for Sensitive Skin: Olio E Osso - Natural Lip + Cheek Stain 

• 4) Most Luxe: Henné Organics Luxury Lip Tint

• 5) Most Conditioning: RMS Beauty Legendary Serum Lip Stain

• 6) Most Natural: Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain

What To Look For In An Organic Lip Stain

An organic lip stain is formulated primarily from natural, organically grown ingredients. These ingredients are typically plant-based and are free from synthetic chemicals, artificial dyes, and preservatives.

Organic lip stains should be certified by a recognized third-party organization like the Environmental Working Group or Cosmos Organic that evaluates the ingredients and ethical production standards, ensuring the product adheres to specific organic and environmental guidelines.

But what exactly sets organic lip products apart from conventional ones? Here's the lowdown on how they differ:

Naturally Derived Organic Ingredients

Organic lip stains are made from organically grown natural ingredients - think botanical oils, bee waxes, and fruit or vegetable pigments like vibrant colors from blackberries, beetroot, or turmeric grown without chemical fertilizers or toxic pesticides. These organic, plant-based ingredients provide a beautiful variety of different colors without using synthetic dyes and chemicals like conventional lip stains. Many cosmetic companies use synthetic dyes since it is more cost-effective than sourcing and processing natural pigments.

Production Practices That Are Good For the Environment

The organic farming processes used to produce the ingredients found in organic lip stains helps to protect our planet by strictly limiting the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. This reduced use of pesticides is beneficial for the environment in a number of ways. 

The absence of harmful chemicals in organic farming reduces the risk of chemical contamination in our waterways, helping to preserve local wildlife and maintain ecological balance. Reduced chemical use also means fewer airborne toxins, contributing to better overall air quality.

However, these environmentally friendly methods require more land and resources for lower yields, so we have to spend slightly more for a good quality organic product.

Cruelty-Free

Brands producing organic lip stains often adhere to ethical standards that go beyond just the ingredients. They may have certifications from organizations like PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) or Leaping Bunny, which verify that the products are not tested on animals.

Many organic lip stains use vegan ingredients. This commitment to using plant-based ingredients further ensures that no animal exploitation is involved in their production.

Sustainable and Zero-Waste Packaging

Clean beauty brands typically prioritize sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging choices. They embrace a minimalist design and avoid unnecessary packaging to cut down on waste, using biodegradable materials like paper and certain bioplastics, alongside recyclable options such as glass and aluminum, to reduce environmental impact.

The Benefits of Using An Organic Lip Stain

Avoiding The Dangerous Chemicals Commonly Found in Conventional Lip Products

It is estimated that the average woman consumes between 4 and 9 pounds of lipstick, lip stain, and lip balm over their lifetime. That’s why we need to be careful about the ingredients in the products we use on our lips.

A study by the University of Notre Dame found that more than half of the skin care products sold in the US and Canada, including lip products, likely contain high levels of toxic industrial compounds known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals, linked to serious health conditions like cancer and reduced birth weight, are persistent and accumulate in the bloodstream when absorbed through the skin.

PFAS are used for their durability and water-resistant properties, making them common in long-lasting lip color. 

In addition to PFAS, there are several other chemicals commonly found in conventional lip products that can be hazardous to your health.

1. Lead: Although not an intentionally added ingredient, lead can be found in some lipsticks and other cosmetics. Lead is a neurotoxin and can be harmful even at small doses.
2. Parabens: Used as preservatives in many cosmetics, parabens can mimic estrogen and have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. They are absorbed through the skin and have been identified in biopsy samples from breast tumors.
3. Phthalates: Often found in fragranced products, phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break. They are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to a range of reproductive issues.
4. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: Some cosmetics use ingredients that slowly release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, to help prevent microbes from growing in water-based products like lip glosses and lip stains.
5. Petroleum Jelly: While not toxic per se, petroleum jelly, which is used in many lip balms and glosses, can create a barrier that locks in moisture but can also trap toxins and bacteria against the skin.
6. Synthetic Colors and Dyes: Some synthetic colors derived from coal tar contain heavy metal salts that can deposit toxins onto the skin, causing skin sensitivity and irritation. Some are also carcinogenic.
7. Fragrance: The term "fragrance" can encompass a variety of chemical compounds, some of which can be allergens, hormone disruptors, or carcinogens.
8. Oxybenzone: Commonly found in lip balms with SPF, oxybenzone is a chemical sunscreen agent that has been linked to hormone disruption and potentially to cell damage that may lead to skin cancer.

Organic Lips Stains Are the Healthier Choice

Non-Toxic and Safe For Your Health

The biggest benefit of choosing an organic lip stain is that they are free from any chemicals that are potentially harmful to your health.

Gentle On Your Lips

Organic lip stains also contain natural ingredients that will help keep your lips moisturized, like sweet almond oil, which contains nourishing components and vitamin E for cell regeneration and natural exfoliation.

Additionally, ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter act as natural emollients with moisturizing properties, safeguarding lips against extreme weather changes.

Organic Lip Stain Brands We Love

1) Most Nourishing: NOTO Botanics - Organic Genet Multi-Benne Stain Stick

The NOTO Botanics Organic Genet Multi-Benne Stain Stick is a must-have for anyone looking for a natural, nourishing lip stain with long-lasting color. This multi-purpose stain glides on smoothly and delivers a buildable, rich red hue that flatters all skin tones. This stain truly stands out because of its organic, vegan formula packed with antioxidant-rich oils and butters.

The very first ingredient is organic shea butter, which deeply hydrates and repairs dry, cracked lips. Organic olive oil, rich in vitamins A and E, nourishes lips while also locking in moisture. Iron oxides provide the perfect pop of color, while organic neem seed oil, high in fatty acids, helps condition your lips.

In addition to the stellar formula, the NOTO Botanics Lip Stain is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of any artificial chemicals or preservatives. The ingredients are all sustainably sourced, and the packaging is recyclable.

2) Most Versatile: Ere Perez - Natural Beetroot Lip Stain + Cheek Tint

The hero ingredient in this lip stain is beetroot extract, which gives a gorgeous pinkish-red stain thanks to its natural pigments. Beetroot is packed with antioxidants to nourish and protect your lip's delicate skin. Other organic ingredients include rosehip oil, rich in vitamins A and C, and vitamin E, a natural antioxidant and moisturizer.

We love that this lip stain contains natural agave nectar as a sweetener instead of using synthetic chemicals. Not only does it taste good, but the agave locks in moisture while also adding a subtle shine to the lips.

The Ere Perez Beetroot Cheek + Lip Tint is one of our favorite vegan lip stains with a buildable water-like formula that lasts hours without drying. It provides the perfect kissable, rosy glow.

3) Best for Sensitive Skin: Olio E Osso - Natural Lip + Cheek Stain 

The Olio E Osso Natural Lip + Cheek Stain truly nourishes while adding the perfect pop of color. This multi-use stain is made with only organic, natural ingredients so good that you could actually eat them. 

The base of the stain is organic shea butter and olive oil, both prized for their incredible moisturizing abilities. The shea butter melts perfectly with your skin, providing a smooth, creamy texture, while the olive oil contains fatty acids and vitamins A and E to soften and condition. Organic beeswax forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and prevent drying or cracking.

Whether used on the lips or cheeks, the Olio E Osso Natural Lip + Cheek Stain delivers comfortable moisture, a healthy glow, and a natural look. It's the perfect organic multitasker.

4) Most Luxe: Henné Organics Luxury Lip Tint

The Henné Organics Luxury Lip Tint is super nourishing and leaves lips with a natural, just-bitten wash of color. This ultra-hydrating lip tint is made with a luxe blend of organic oils, including organic castor seed oil, coconut, and avocado oils, which will drench your lips with essential vitamins and antioxidants. Organic rosehip oil, rich in skin-loving vitamins A and C, boosts moisture levels and helps repair dryness and chapping.

Henné Organics also includes organic calendula extract, which has natural healing properties to soothe irritation, and organic vanilla planifolia fruit extract, which acts as a natural lip plumper.

We love their Intrique shade, which leaves our lips with a deep, beautiful pout and is the perfect shade for a natural-looking bold lip. With super easy application, the Henné Organics Luxury Lip Tint is perfect for the winter weather as it hydrates, comforts, and protects lips while providing a perfect pop of organic color with a velvety matte finish. Its nourishing oils diminish dry lips and fine lines, helping lips look supple and smooth, making it perfect for everyday wear.

5) Most Conditioning: RMS Beauty Legendary Serum Lip Stain

RMS Beauty's Legendary Serum Lipstick uses pure, raw, food-grade, and organic ingredients that will pamper your lips.

The base of this lipstick is unrefined coconut oil. And to provide even more moisture, RMS added organic cocoa and fair trade shea butter. Wild-harvested plant butters like mango butter and cacao butter also make for a smooth, glossy finish.

The mineral pigments are free of FD&C colors and synthetic chemicals. Instead, ingredients like organic bee pollen extract and wild-harvested camu camu impart a natural, buildable color. Rosemary extract offers antioxidant protection, while pure vanilla oil provides a lovely scent.

Everything from the ingredients to the recyclable packaging is sustainable and ethically sourced. RMS Beauty is Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free. Overall, this organic lipstick nourishes your lips the natural way while providing long-lasting, vibrant color. 

6) Most Natural: Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain

The Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain is a pH-activated stain that adjusts to your body's unique chemistry to deliver a customized color that perfectly flatters your complexion and enhances your natural beauty.

Olive oil provides intense conditioning and antioxidant properties, while avocado oil, rich in vitamins A, D, and E, deeply moisturizes without leaving a greasy feel. Beeswax and rose wax smooth and protect lips while adding a touch of natural shine. This lip stain also contains pine bark extract, an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and prevent moisture loss. Ginger root extract soothes and calms skin as well.

With its skin-loving organic ingredients, the Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain easily builds to your desired intensity and lasts all day without drying your lips. 

How To Pick The Best Lip Stains For Your Skin Tone

Easy Methods to Determine Your Skin Undertone

When choosing the best organic lip stain, you’ll want to consider your skin's undertone and select shades that best complement your complexion.

To determine your undertone, look at the veins on your wrist under natural light. If they appear blue, your undertone is cool, suggesting pink or blue hues in your skin. Green veins indicate a warm undertone characterized by yellow or golden hues. If your veins seem to be both blue and green, you have a neutral undertone, which means you can easily wear a wide array of colors. 

Flattering Stains for Fair Skin Tones

Shades for Fair Skin: For fair skin tones, opt for lip stains in red or variations of red and pink, and some soft corals. These shades complement the lightness of your fair skin, enhancing the overall look without overwhelming your natural skin tone.

Perfect Picks for Medium Skin Tones

Colors for Medium Skin: Medium skin tones can carry a wide range of colors effectively. Choose from peachy nudes, classic reds, or deeper shades like mauve. These colors work well with the balanced pigmentation in medium skin tones.

Ideal Choices for Dark Skin Tones

Best for Dark Skin: Dark skin tones are well-suited for bold and rich colors. Look for lip stains in deep plums, rich reds, berries, and purples. These shades contrast beautifully with dark skin, highlighting its depth. For a more subdued look, opt for nudes with brown undertones.

Cool Undertones

Shades for Cool Undertones: If you have cool undertones, berry, plum, and various pink shades, including cherry red and raspberry pink, are ideal. These colors harmonize with the cool undertone of your skin.

Warm Undertones

Colors for Warm Undertones: For warm undertones, select lip stains in coral, orange, and brown shades, such as coral, peach, terracotta, copper, and chocolate. These shades complement the warm undertones in your skin.

Neutral Undertones

Choices for Neutral Undertones: Neutral undertones have the flexibility to experiment with a wide range of colors. From light nudes to bold reds, neutral undertones can carry almost any shade effectively.

This blog post was all about the best organic lip stains.

In this guide, we've covered the key things to know about organic lip stains, from their ingredients and benefits to how to pick the best shades for your unique skin tone.

Organic lip stains nourish lips with natural plant oils and butters instead of harsh chemicals. They deliver buildable, lasting color from mineral pigments and fruit/vegetable extracts. Their sustainable, ethical production helps to protect the environment. 

We recommend selecting organic lip stains in shades that complement your skin's undertone. Fair skin looks great in pinks and reds, medium skin in peaches and mauves, and dark skin in rich plums and purples. Cool undertones match berry and cherry tones while warm undertones pair well with corals and chocolates.

Give your lips some healthy, organic love with the lip stains we spotlighted, like NOTO Botanics, Henné Organics, RMS Beauty, and Jane Iredale. Feel confident you're making an eco-friendly choice that avoids toxic ingredients.

We hope this guide helps you pick the perfect organic lip stain to enhance your pout. Share it with friends to spread the word about healthy, ethical beauty products.

Remember - the lip color you choose makes a statement. Let yours be a commitment to organic ingredients, sustainable production, and cruelty-free ethics for true beauty inside and out.