A Deep Dive into Huda Beauty and the Lip Contour Stain

When it comes to the modern beauty industry, few names have made as much impact in such a short time as Huda Beauty. Founded by beauty influencer Huda Kattan in 2013, the brand quickly rose to global fame thanks to its bold marketing, innovative products, and commitment to making high-quality cosmetics accessible for everyday beauty lovers. From its iconic false lashes to eyeshadow palettes, lip products, and complexion must-haves, Huda Beauty has become a household name among makeup enthusiasts.

But with every successful brand comes the question: Do the products live up to the hype? Today, we’re taking a deep look at one of Huda Beauty’s most talked-about launches—the Lip Contour Stain, a product that combines the precision of a lip liner with the staying power of a lip stain.

The Huda Beauty Brand Philosophy

Huda Kattan started her journey as a beauty blogger and makeup artist. What set her apart was her relatability—she wasn’t just another celebrity face attached to a brand, she was a true beauty lover who shared tutorials, tips, and product reviews. Her brand reflects that same authenticity.

Huda Beauty emphasizes inclusivity, bold creativity, and high performance. The company has consistently expanded its shade ranges to cater to multiple skin tones and often pushes boundaries with daring colors and textures. With a massive online following, the brand doesn’t just sell products—it creates a lifestyle, inspiring users to experiment and embrace their individuality.

Introducing the Lip Contour Stain

At first glance, the Lip Contour Stain may look like just another lip liner. But Huda Beauty designed it to be more than that. It’s marketed as a 12-hour wear lip stain-liner hybrid, packed into a sleek felt-tip pen. The goal? To give users the ability to line, define, and fill their lips with one product that stays put through meals, drinks, and even kisses.

Some key product claims include:

• 12-hour wear that is smudge-proof, kiss-proof, and transfer-resistant.
• Precision felt-tip design for sharp lines and quick filling.
• Infused with argan oil to prevent dryness.
• Available in eight versatile shades ranging from soft nudes to bold reds and browns.

At around $25 for the full size and $17 for a mini duo, it sits in the mid-luxury price bracket—more affordable than couture brands but pricier than most drugstore options.

Packaging & First Impressions

Huda Beauty has always excelled at packaging, and the Lip Contour Stain is no exception. The pen-style design makes it easy to hold, while the dual-ended felt tips allow both precision and convenience. The minimalist branding, with bold lettering and chic color indicators, makes it feel modern yet functional.

One detail that stands out is that the pen must be stored tip-down to maintain its ink flow. This isn’t a flaw, but it’s something users need to remember, otherwise the tip can dry out quickly—a point raised by some early reviewers.

Shade Range

The shade collection is curated to fit different undertones and preferences. Among the most popular:

• Baby Pink – a fresh, soft pink perfect for everyday wear.
• Rosewood – a romantic rosy mauve, flattering on medium skin tones.
• Cinnamon – a warm brick-brown, ideal for fall looks.
• Cherry Red – a striking blue-toned red that screams confidence.
• Toasty Brown & Rich Brown – versatile nudes for deeper complexions.

Unlike some brands that overwhelm customers with 30+ shades, Huda keeps it simple with eight well-thought-out options, ensuring that most users can find their match without feeling lost.

Application & Performance

Applying the Lip Contour Stain feels a bit different from a traditional creamy lip liner. The felt-tip applicator glides smoothly, laying down pigment with precision. You can outline your lips sharply for a contoured effect or fill them in completely for a monochromatic look.

One standout feature is how fast the formula sets. Once applied, you have a short window to blend or adjust, after which it becomes nearly budge-proof. For this reason, blending with a fingertip right away is recommended.

In terms of wear, reviewers consistently note that it lasts through meals, coffee, and even humid conditions. From a busy workday to a night out, it lives up to the 12-hour claim for most users. That said, those with naturally dry lips may find it slightly dehydrating, so pairing it with a lip oil or balm afterward is a smart move.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Incredible longevity – lasts 9–12 hours without major touch-ups.
• Dual function – acts as both a liner and a stain, reducing the need for multiple products.
• Lightweight feel – doesn’t feel heavy or cakey on the lips.
• Versatile shades – from nude everyday tones to statement reds.
• Smudge-proof & kiss-proof – great for long days or special occasions.

Cons

• Can feel drying after hours of wear, especially without prep.
• Learning curve – sets fast, so blending must be done immediately.
• Storage requirement – must be kept tip-down, otherwise it may dry out.
• Price – more expensive than drugstore alternatives like Rimmel or Maybelline stains.

Comparisons with Alternatives

Many beauty editors have compared the Lip Contour Stain to cheaper dupes. Rimmel’s lip stains, for instance, offer surprisingly similar longevity at a fraction of the price. However, what sets Huda apart is the shade sophistication and the luxe feel of the product.

Compared to traditional lip liners, Huda’s formula outperforms in wear time. Unlike creamy liners that smudge or fade, this one truly locks into place. Against liquid lipsticks, it wins on comfort—lighter on the lips and less likely to crack.

Expert Tips for Best Results

1. Prep your lips – exfoliate and moisturize before application.
2. Apply to dry, clean lips – avoid layering over balms or foundation.
3. Work quickly – blend right after applying before the formula sets.
4. Pair with gloss or oil – for a hydrated, glossy finish.
5. Always store tip-down – to prevent drying and ensure consistent pigment flow.

Final Verdict

The Huda Beauty Lip Contour Stain is more than just a lip liner—it’s a multitasking product that can transform the way you approach lip makeup. It offers the precision of a liner, the boldness of a stain, and the longevity of a liquid lipstick, all in one sleek pen.

While it has its drawbacks—mainly dryness and storage quirks—it stands out as a reliable choice for anyone who values long-lasting, low-maintenance lip color. For professionals, busy individuals, or makeup lovers who don’t want to reapply constantly, it’s worth the investment.

In many ways, this product reflects Huda Beauty’s brand DNA: innovative, bold, and designed for real-life wear. If you’re a fan of lip products that truly go the distance, the Lip Contour Stain deserves a place in your beauty bag.

Haman Farahmand