It all started with the Kylie Lip Kit, which -- in case you're living under a proverbial rock -- is Kylie Jenner's sought-after matte liquid lipstick and liner duo. And while Kylie's Kit is virtually impossible to get (it sells out in seconds every time stock is replenished), many new matte liquid lipsticks have cropped up in its shadow. And some are -- dare we say -- even better than the kit.

Of course, Kylie Jenner didn't invent the matte liquid lipstick category. But she did -- along with hundreds of Instagram makeup stars -- popularize the look, and now it's a trend that can't be ignored. The key, however, is to know what makes each matte liquid lipstick special before you fork over your hard-earned cash. Fortunately, these are a whole lot easier to buy than that elusive kit -- no liner required.

Image via Imaxtree

Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick, $20, comes in 26 colors including 10 new shades for spring. This formula deposits just the right amount of product (read: not too goopy) and dries almost instantly -- and once it dries it doesn't budge.

The most challenging thing about wearing a matte liquid lipstick is dryness. After a few hours, most formulas leave lips feeling like the Sahara. Ciaté London Liquid Velvet Moisturizing Matte Liquid Lipstick, $19, contains hyaluronic acid to keep lips feeling dewy while still looking matte. Check out the Deep Teal shade for a fun, edgy look Kylie would love.

If even the most moisturizing matte lipstick is too drying for you, this semi-matte version might be your best option. Buxom Wildly Whipped Lightweight Liquid Lipstick, $21, is whipped so it feels soft and creamy when you apply, and it doesn't dry and tighten up like so many other formulas. Instead, it feels like a thick balm while still giving you a matte effect.

The pretty colors of Tarte Tarteist Lip Paint, $20, are derived from natural mineral pigments. This formula feels especially silky when you apply it, but it turns matte after a few seconds. And the shade names like TBT and Bae are sure to appeal to the millennial in all of us.