Korean lip tints are sold widely outside Korea now. They give strong color, last a long time and make the "just-bitten" look common on K-pop idols. Most cost under $10.
Below are three widely sold Korean lip tints with current store prices. We do not test or rank products.
How Are K-Beauty Lip Tints Different?
Many Western lip products sit on top of the lips. Korean lip tints are made to stain the lips, so the color stays for hours, and a light flush is often left after eating and drinking.
Korean lip color is also usually worn as a gradient (called "gradation" in Korea) instead of an even, opaque finish: deeper color in the center that fades outward.
Three Widely Sold Lip Tints
Romand Juicy Lasting Tint
A widely sold Korean lip tint with strong color and a formula that does not dry the lips much.
Shades: Comes in many shades, so most personal color seasons can find a match.
Where to buy: Buy on Olive Young Global →
Peripera Ink Mood Glowy Tint
A widely sold Korean lip tint with strong color and a formula that does not dry the lips much.
Shades: Comes in many shades, so most personal color seasons can find a match.
Where to buy: Buy on Olive Young Global →
Etude Dear Darling Water Gel Tint
A widely sold Korean lip tint with strong color and a formula that does not dry the lips much.
Shades: Comes in many shades, so most personal color seasons can find a match.
Where to buy: Buy on Olive Young Global →
How to Choose by Personal Color
The shade you pick matters more than the product itself:
- Spring Warm: Go for coral, peach, and warm pink shades
- Summer Cool: Choose rose, mauve, and dusty pink
- Autumn Warm: Pick brick, terracotta, and warm brown
- Winter Cool: Bold cherry, wine red, and fuchsia
Application Tips from Korean MUAs
Korean makeup artists often use a "tap, don't swipe" method for lip tints:
- Apply a thin layer of lip balm and blot with a tissue
- Dab a small amount of tint on the center of your lower lip
- Press your lips together to transfer to the upper lip
- Use your fingertip to blend outward for the gradient effect
- For a more intense look, repeat steps 2-3
This gives the Korean "blurred lip" look often seen in K-pop music videos.
Summary
All three tints cost under $10. The shade matters more than the brand, so start from your personal color season. See our personal color guide if you're not sure which season you are.
