long lasting color, could have a better application [SEP] This is a lip stain, not lipstick. And yes, they're cotton swabs. You break one end so it flows to the other, and there's a LOT of stain in each cotton swab (there's 20 in the box, each wrapped in plastic). I think you can get two uses out of each one, but obviously, they're meant for single use.<br /><br />This stain works VERY well. The I am Fine color is reddish-brown, but it was a very nice red color on my lips. And my fingers - be careful when you apply these since they do stain. It's best to exfoliate before you use them, and to line your lips since I noticed a bit of bleeding/feathering when I used the product. Nothing that was obvious unless one was very close, but it would be prevented from lining my lips which I don't normally think to do when using a stain. Then again, the applicator is a cotton swab (so no fine control) and you get a LOT of product with it.<br /><br />It does last all day unless you eat something greasy/buttery. So this would be great for going out for drinks or doing anything where you avoid greasy food. Also, the instructions on the box are in Chinese.