5 best sheer lipsticks to shop at Ulta
By Ulta Beauty Advisors · Published October 2026
All products featured are available at Ulta Beauty. Ulta Beauty Advisors select products independently. Prices and availability are subject to change.
A sheer lipstick gives lips a wash of color and shine without the weight of a full-coverage formula. The best sheer lipsticks feel closer to a tinted lip balm, build from a soft tint to more color, and work with your natural lip shade instead of covering it.
If you want an easy starting point, pick a sheer pink or nude. These shades are forgiving, easy to apply without a mirror, and simple to layer. A lipstick in a sheer formula is also a low-pressure way to try a new color before committing to a bolder one.
The five picks below are all available at Ulta Beauty, from a glossy sheer-shine stick to a tinted balm.
What makes a good sheer lipstick
Sheer formulas share a few qualities. They apply lightly, they can be layered, and they keep lips feeling comfortable.
A few practical guidelines to keep in mind:
Start with one swipe: Sheer formulas show the most natural effect in a single coat, and you can add more only if you want depth.
Look for balm-like comfort: Many sheer lipsticks include moisturizing ingredients, which makes them a good fit if your lips often feel dry.
Choose a shade close to your lip color: A sheer pink or nude blends with your natural color for a "your lips, but better" look.
Layer when you want more: Sheer lipsticks can be built up or worn over a lip liner or another lip color.
The best sheer lipsticks at Ulta
Here are five sheer lip options available at Ulta Beauty, organized from a glossy sheer-shine stick to a soft tinted balm.
1 of 5: Best sheer-shine lipstick
MAC Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick in Syrup
Sheer-Shine Lipstick | $25.00
Shop MAC Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick in Syrup at Ulta →
Syrup is a blue pink. The formula comforts like a balm and delivers buildable color with immediate high shine, plus raspberry seed, jojoba, and coconut oils for hydration.
This is a strong pick if you want a glossy sheer pink that still feels like a lipstick.
2 of 5: Best sheer pink lipstick
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Pink Honey
Sheer Lipstick | $25.00
Shop Clinique Almost Lipstick in Pink Honey at Ulta →
Pink Honey is a soft, sheer pink that adds a rosy touch of color and shine. The texture is closer to a tinted lip balm than a traditional lipstick, and it builds with extra layers.
Consider this if you want an easy, everyday pink. It is also fragrance free.
3 of 5: Best sheer lipstick that adapts to your lips
Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
Sheer Lipstick | $25.00
Shop Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey at Ulta →
Black Honey looks dark in the tube but glides on as a sheer, glossy slip of lightweight color. Clinique describes it as a blend of blue, red, and yellow pigments in a creamy, sheer base that plays up your natural lip color.
This is a good choice if you want a deeper berry-toned tint without a heavy, opaque finish.
4 of 5: Best budget glossy sheer color
Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm in 013 Toasting Glasses
Glass Shine Balm | $11.99
Shop Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm in 013 Toasting Glasses at Ulta →
This lipstick delivers sheer, glassy color with the hydration of a lip balm and the shine of a gloss. The formula includes hyaluronic acid, aloe, and rose quartz, and has a light vanilla scent.
It suits anyone who wants a lower-priced sheer option in a swipe-on lipstick.
5 of 5: Best sheer lip tint for a blushed look
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Long Lasting Blush Balm Sheer Lip Tint
Sheer Lip Tint | $32.00
Shop Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Blush Balm Sheer Lip Tint at Ulta →
Pillow Talk is described as a sheer nude-pink tint. This 3-in-1 sheer lipstick, balm, and tint is hydrating and buildable, and it can also be applied to the cheeks for a sheer wash of blush.
This is a good pick if you want one product for a soft, blushed-from-within lip and cheek.
How to wear a sheer lipstick
A few small choices make sheer shades look polished:
Blot for a softer finish: Press lips together after one swipe for a diffused effect.
Layer for dimension: Add a second coat in the center of the lips for more color, or wear a sheer shade over a lip liner.
Prep lips first: A smooth base helps sheer color look even.
Try cheeks too: Some sheer formulas, like Pillow Talk, can double as a blush.
Frequently asked questions
What is a sheer lipstick?
A sheer lipstick delivers a light, translucent wash of color and often a soft shine. It usually feels like a tinted lip balm and can be built up with more layers.
Is sheer lipstick good for dry lips?
Many sheer formulas include moisturizing ingredients, so they can feel comfortable on dry lips. MAC Lustreglass includes raspberry seed, jojoba, and coconut oils, and Revlon Glass Shine Balm includes hyaluronic acid and aloe.
Can you build up sheer lipstick?
Yes. Clinique Almost Lipstick, MAC Lustreglass, and Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk are all described on Ulta as buildable. Start with one swipe and add layers for more color.
What is the best sheer lipstick for everyday wear?
A sheer pink or nude is an easy everyday choice. Clinique Almost Lipstick in Pink Honey and Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk are both soft, easy-to-wear shades.
Does sheer lipstick last all day?
Wear time varies by formula. Charlotte Tilbury lists up to 8 hours of longwear for Pillow Talk based on its own testing. Sheer shades generally need more frequent touch-ups than matte formulas, so keep one in your bag.
Can I wear sheer lipstick over lip liner?
Yes. A lip liner adds definition, and a sheer lipstick on top softens the look. Clinique suggests layering Almost Lipstick over or under other lip color and lip liners.
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