With Valentines just around the corner, now is the time to invest in a decent long lasting lipstick for the perfect irresistible pout that won't fade from all that kissing! Handbag's Features Editor Natasha Aitken, 32, from London can't leave the house without lipstick (especially red) and was happy to test out the staying power of our favourite lippys for the beauty team. 'Being fair-skinned I always feel a bit naked without my lip-stick and I'm keen to see how well the long-lasting kind will work for me'…

L'Oréal Invincible Kiss Proof Ultra Glossy

£9.99
'It's a tricky one here. This lipstick was indeed long-lasting – to the point that I had to rub my lips in a state of panic to actually get it off! This will definitely last you the night, however it does need to be touched up as it tends to flake off eventually – not looking all that attractive! The feeling as it dries into your lips is not a nice one and for general daily wear this was too much like applying Dulux to my lips (even with the gloss included)!'
Available nationwide

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-place Lip Duo

£17
'Like the L'Oréal lipstick, this dries onto your lips and comes with a gloss to keep it moist. This lipstick faired much better as it seemed a little lighter in texture and didn't feel so final. The sheen in the colour stayed looking good for quite some time although eventually it had to be reapplied, but I'm impressed.'
Available nationwide

Max Factor Lipfinity Everlites

£9.99
'The best of the "drying on" lipsticks. This one comes with a stick not unlike a chap stick (instead of the gloss) and left the lipstick underneath feeling more moist than the others. Again the colour was quite light and didn't start to crack until after a good few hours.'
Available nationwide

Clinique Long Last Lipstick

£12
'A more traditional lipstick, this one doesn't dry onto the lips like the majority of the other ones. So in terms of lasting long it doesn't compete with the others in terms of staying power. That said, it's a really think creamy lipstick and does last a lot longer than normal sticks. This is my personal favourite – long lasting without the dried on effect.'
Stockists: www.clinique.co.uk

Rouge Dior Replenishing Lipcolour

£16.50
'This is a lovely lipstick. It smells divine and has just a hint of shine. It made my lips feel moisturized and plump and this particular shade (Rouge Premiere) was perfect for me. I think this will making it on the party circuit for sure this year. It wasn't the longest-lasting, with a staying power of around a couple of hours, but it's a totally gorgeous lipstick all the same.'
Stockists: 01932 233909