Lipstick has continued the most popular cosmetic product for decades, and for good reason. Applying lipstick correctly instantly transforms your look, gives your makeup a finished appearance, and creates a polished, well-groomed impression. It’s no wonder that women can’t do without it! Many believe that the right lipstick boosts self-confidence, improves mood, and gives them a sense of empowerment. As the proverb goes, “Give a woman the right lipstick, and she can overcome the world.”
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However, not everyone knows how to use this magic wand correctly. It’s an art that requires precision, technique, and practice. And if you’re new to the world of lipsticks and lip products, you’ll find all the help you need to master this art right here. This article lists about tips and tricks for those who have difficulty applying lipstick.
So, if your lipstick wears off quickly, smudges beyond your lip line, or stains your teeth, we’ll help you with these simple tips for a perfect application. Keep reading!
How To Apply Lipstick Perfectly Like A Pro
To accomplish the perfect lip shape and keep them looking spectacular, follow these simple instructions and tips for a glamorous look that lasts all day.
Let’s start with what you’ll need:
- A nourishing lip balm/lip conditioner
- A lip liner
- Concealer
- Pressed powder
- Your favourite lipstick
And now, let’s get straight to the tutorial!
Method 1: Regular Step-by-Step Tutorial To Apply Lipstick
Step 1: Prep Your Lips
This is the first and most important step, and I can’t stress enough how crucial preparation is. You don’t want to end up with dry, cracked lips. Start with a simple exfoliation using a soft, damp toothbrush or a mild sugar scrub. This will efficiently remove dead skin cells from your lips. Then, apply a nutritious lip balm to keep them soft, supple, and healthy. For longer-lasting colour, use a lip primer to prevent your lipstick from smudging or feathering.
Note: Be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can damage the faint skin on your lips.
A blogger shared her tips for smearing lipstick effectively. She wrote: “When I have to go to a party in the evening, I start applying lip balm in the morning and repeat this several times to make sure my lips are soft and plump when I apply my makeup.”
Step 2: Apply A Base
If you’re concerned about fading or uneven lip colour, your lipstick must have a base to adhere to the lips. This ensures it won’t smudge or settle into fine lines. Select a concealer shade that matches your lip colour, then apply a small amount with a flat or small, fluffy brush. Then, set the base with a light dusting of powder. This will also help your lipstick last longer.
Note: M.A.C. Prep + Prime Lip Primer is an excellent option and is also optional by professional makeup artists.
Step 3: Use A Lip Liner
To augment the natural shape of your lips and prevent lipstick from bleeding, use a high-quality lip liner to define, correct, and refine the contour. This will create a more defined, clean, and polished look.
Trace the natural outline of your lips from corner to corner with a lip liner that matches your skin tone to prevent lipstick from feathering (this can sometimes depend on the colour you choose). To accentuate your Cupid’s bow, draw an “X” on your upper lip, just below the peak.
Don’t worry if the inner lines are a little uneven, as the lipstick will cover them anyway; only the outer lines are essential.
Note: Use a lip liner with a moderately soft texture for more straightforward application. I love Lakme 9 to 5 lip pencils, which come in a variety of beautiful shades.
Step 4: Apply the Lipstick
After completing all previous steps and choosing your lipstick, apply a small amount with a brush, then spread it evenly over your lips. Don’t forget the inner corners. Make sure to use the lipstick within your lip line. Apply it layer by layer, building up the colour to your liking. One good coat of a quality lipstick is usually enough.
Here are some popular types of lipsticks and the looks they complement best. Keep reading!
1. Matte Lipstick
The main advantage of matte lipstick is its long-lasting formula. This makes it ideal aimed at all-day wear without frequent touch-ups. However, matte formulas can sometimes dry out the lips. Therefore, it’s essential to prepare your lips by exfoliating and moisturising them before applying your favourite lipstick.
2. Glossy Lipstick
This glossy lipstick gives your lips an incredible shine. It also moisturises them, making it ideal for those seeking a fresh look. However, the shine tends to fade quickly, so keep it with you if you want to maintain a flawless look all day long.
3. Satin Lipstick
Satin lipsticks have a level finish that falls between matte and glossy. They give lips a subtle shine without the intense effect of a lip gloss. Satin formulations are comfortable to wear and more moisturising than matte lipsticks. They are long-lasting but don’t dry out the lips, making satin lipsticks an ideal choice.
4. Cream Lipstick
Creamy lipsticks have a rich texture and offer medium to full coverage. They moisturise the lips better than matte lipsticks and provide a soft sheen. Creamy formulas are designed for those who want a comfortable lipstick for everyday wear, with minimal shine.
5. Sheer Lipstick
Translucent lipstick adds a subtle tint and a high-shine finish to your lips. It’s perfect for a natural, everyday look or for a soft, understated style. While translucent formulas are pleasant to wear, they often require more frequent reapplication because the colour fades faster. So always keep one in your bag!
6. Liquid Lipstick
Liquid lipsticks come in matte and glossy finishes. They typically offer more intense colour and more extended wear. Dull liquid lipsticks are known for their exceptional staying power and often feature smudge-proof formulas. However, liquid blushes can be drying, especially the matte ones. Therefore, always use lip balm before applying this type of lipstick.
7. Lip Balm Lipstick
Here’s the lipstick-balm hybrid you’ve been looking for! This formula offers intense colour and moisturising benefits. Although not as pigmented as traditional lipsticks, it provides a additional natural finish and is ideal for dry lips.
Each formula produces a different effect, so the choice depends on your desired result. If you have thin lips, avoid very dark colours, as they can make your lips appear lesser.
The blogger also added: “I always run my index finger over my lips after applying liquid lipstick to remove any excess product. For some thicker liquid lipsticks, like the Sugar Smudge Me Not, I prefer to use a small brush; this helps distribute the product evenly.”
Step 5: Add Definition
Use a small concealer brush to outline your lips and define their shape. This is optional, but if you want a fuller look, you can add a touch of lip gloss.
Now that you have a basic understanding of lip preparation and perfect lipstick application, let’s look at some essential tips that might be helpful.
Method 2: How To Apply Lipstick Without Lip Liner
If you don’t have lip liner in your makeup bag, don’t worry, because there’s a secret to applying lipstick ideally without it. First, use a long-lasting formula, preferably a matte liquid lipstick.
Step 1: Use Your Finger
Apply a small amount of your chosen lipstick colour to your ring finger, then gently press it onto your lips, following their natural contour. This will ensure precise application without the need for lip liner.
Step 2: Finish The Look
For the inner part of your lips, finish applying the colour using the lipstick directly from the tube or a brush.
See? It’s easy! This trick is also useful when you’re in a hurry!
Let’s look at a few more simple tricks to help you achieve the perfect lip look.
Method 3: How To Apply Lipstick on Shady Lips
Whether you have dark, pigmented, or discoloured lips, you can achieve the colour you want with a few simple tricks. Don’t be afraid of light shades or soft pinks, because these tricks really work with a little effort.
Step 1: Conceal
The key is to neutralise your lip colour with a concealer that flawlessly matches your skin tone. Concealer is always helpful for dark areas, so that you can use it on your lips, too. You’ll be surprised by the results.
Step 2: Add Some Extra Coverage
If a small amount of concealer isn’t enough, you can apply a little more product to your lips until you achieve the desired effect.
Step 3: Line Your Lip
Use a lip liner that competitions your lipstick and gently trace the natural outline of your lips, making an “X” or “cross” mark just below the curve of your upper lip to define your lip shape.
Step 4: Layer The Lipstick On
Apply several layers of lipstick if needed. For best results, use a matte lipstick. Matte lipsticks also last much longer than creamy or glossy ones.
Now you can wear any colour you want!
And that’s not all, we have a few more tips for women with thin lips.
Method 4: How To Apply Blush on Small Lips
If you want to achieve fuller-looking lips with the help of a bit of lipstick, keep reading.
Many great makeup tricks will help you achieve this.
Note: There are also products on the market to enhance and plump the lips, such as lip plumping products, which give them a fuller appearance temporarily.
Step 1: Exfoliate
To exfoliate, you can use a nourishing lip scrub or a natural sugar scrub. Gently kneading the scrub onto your lips in slow, circular motions.
Step 2: Prime
Use a lipstick base to create an even surface and increase the longevity of your lip makeup.
Step 3: Line
Use a lip liner that competitions your lipstick. Avoid shades that are too dark, as they will only make your lips look smaller.
Step 4: Highlight
After applying lipstick, be sure to line your lips. Just like with facial contouring, lining your lips creates volume and makes them appear fuller.
Lip gloss is a real lifesaver for small or thin lips. For an extra boost, apply a little gloss over your lipstick for a radiant and voluminous look.
Essential Tips And Precautions To Be Taken While Applying Lipstick
Here are some additional tips and tricks for lipstick lovers.
- Never use a dark lip liner with a light lipstick shade; it will ruin your entire look.
- Always soften the liner lines by carefully blending them with your fingertips or a cotton swab.
- Understand your specific lip characteristics and determine which formulas work best for you, as this varies from person to person.
- Always blot your lips with a tissue to eliminate excess product and even out the texture.
- To transform a glossy lipstick into a matte one, apply a small amount of translucent loose powder to your lips and let it dry slightly. Then, gently blend the powder with a flat or fluffy brush.
- When applying lipstick with a brush, use an angled brush. This will help create a more defined outline.
- If you want to jump on the pastel lipstick trend and don’t want to spend money on new lipsticks, you can create your own pastel shade at home. Apply a white lip liner to your entire lips, then carefully apply your favourite lipstick shades on top. Voila! To make your lips look fuller, apply a touch of creamy highlighter to your upper lip (above the Cupid’s bow).
- Always be careful not to get lipstick on your teeth, as this often happens with creamy, easy-to-apply lipsticks.
- Never use expired lip products, as they can cause allergic reactions and other health problems.
- Avoid using lipstick samples from stores, as many people have used them and can spread infections.
- Never apply lipstick to cracked lips, as this will only highlight the cracks and wrinkles.
- But how long can you use lip products without causing harm? Is it safe to use them after the expiration date? Please continue to the next section, where we will answer these questions.
How Long Should You Keep A Lipstick?
Different brands and formulas of lipstick can have varying expiration dates. Be sure to check the packaging and use the lipstick as directed. Typically, cream lipsticks last 1 to 2 years, while lip glosses may spoil within 6 months to 1 year. Avoid using expired or outdated lipsticks. Not only will they lose their colour and texture, but they can also increase the risk of bacterial infections and breakouts, and worsen lip dryness.
Also, remember that while long-lasting lipsticks are every makeup lover’s dream, they should be removed with a high-quality makeup remover or cleanser before bed to keep lips healthy.
Now that we’ve discussed the application, let’s talk about how to remove lipstick at the end of the day. It’s crucial to eliminate all traces of makeup before going to bed to uphold healthy skin. Plus, it’s nice to have soft, healthy lips, right?
How To Remove Lipstick
There are several ways to remove lipstick. Ideally, you should use a makeup remover, which is easy to find in stores. Personally, I prefer Neutrogena eye and lip makeup remover, as it effectively and gently removes makeup, and Neutrogena products are very reliable. You can also use lip makeup remover wipes, which efficiently remove lipstick without irritating the lips.
We must treat our lips gently, and when removing lipstick, always try not to damage or dry them out.
Method 1: Apply Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to your lips, like a lip balm, and leave it on for two minutes. Then remove the lipstick with a damp tissue or cotton pad. This method works for matte liquid lipsticks too!
Method 2: Use Coconut Oil/ Olive Oil
Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your lips – it nourishes the skin and is one of the most natural makeup removers. Use a cotton pad to eliminate any remaining product from your lips.
Method 3: Lotion
If you have no other option, try applying a little face or body lotion and gently massaging it into your lips. Leave it on for a couple of minutes, then remove it with a cotton pad.
That’s all you need to know to master applying and removing lipstick. We hope you’ve remembered some of these tips and tricks so you can achieve perfect lips next time.
Now you’re ready to apply lipstick like a pro. You might also find it helpful to learn about some common mistakes and how to avoid them. Read on to learn more.
Mistakes To Avoid While Applying Lipstick
Here’s a detailed analysis of common mistakes to avoid for perfect lipstick application. Read on!
1. Skipping Lip Liner
Lip liner not only accentuates the shape of your lips but also helps stop lipstick from smudging, especially with vibrant or dark shades. It creates a barrier that holds the colour in place and provides a sharper, more defined contour. Don’t forget lip liner when doing your makeup!
2. Not Exfoliating Lips
Applying lipstick to dry, cracked lips can result in uneven, patchy coverage. Exfoliating your lips eradicates dead skin cells, making the surface smoother and allowing the lipstick to apply more evenly and last longer.
3. Overloading Lipstick
Applying too much lipstick can result in a thick, clumpy layer that looks unnatural. Instead, use a thin layer and gradually build up the colour intensity for a more even coverage. This will also prevent the lipstick from smudging and bleeding.
4, Matching Lipstick To Skin Tone Poorly
If your lipstick shade doesn’t match your skin tone, it can ruin your entire makeup look. Cool lipstick shades generally complement cool undertones, while warm shades flatter warmer skin tones. Select a shade that improves your skin tone to look more attractive.
5. Forgetting To Blot
Staining your lips with a tissue helps set the lipstick and reduces the risk of smudging or transferring it onto cups or teeth. It also provides a long-lasting matte finish.
6. Not Checking For Blotches
After applying lipstick, take a instant to check for any smudges or excess colour on your teeth or in the corners of your lips. Lipstick can easily leave marks on the skin or teeth, so catching this early ensures a flawless look.
7. Ignoring Lip Care
Healthy lips are essential for flawless lipstick submission. If your lips are dry or fractured, lipstick will accumulate in those areas, making them more noticeable. Regularly apply lip balm or a moisturising product to keep your lips soft and hydrated. A stable diet and sufficient water intake are also imperative.
By avoiding these mistakes, you will accomplish a smoother lipstick application.
Try these tips and share your experience or ask questions in the comments below.
Infographic: How To Correctly Apply Lipstick
Applying lipstick correctly can seem downright impossible, even if you’ve found the perfect shade for your lips. Achieving flawless application of that ideal colour takes time and practice. But with the good technique, you can master it much faster. Take a look at the infographic below to learn about different ways to apply lipstick flawlessly.
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Lipstick is an essential cosmetic product. Applying it correctly requires practice. First, find the technique that suits you best and use it precisely. Don’t rush, take your time, and practice applying lipstick. Once you’ve mastered the method, you’ll be able to apply it flawlessly and quickly, like a professional makeup artist. So, with lipstick in hand, approach the mirror. Reread this article and follow the instructions. If you make a mistake, be patient and try again. You can also read some additional tips and recommendations for achieving perfect lips. Please choose the right shade of lipstick and apply it as directed to enhance your beauty. But don’t forget to take care of your lips.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do I do if my lipstick bleeds?
If you notice your lipstick smudging, don’t worry. Start by exactness your lips with a lip liner. Then, apply a thin coat of concealer around your lips. This method effectively prevents lipstick from smudging, allowing you to wear it confidently throughout the day.
2. How do I fix my smudged lipstick?
If your lipstick has smudged, don’t worry. Blot your lips with a matter to remove the excess. Then, use a cotton swab dipped in concealer to touch up the edges of your lips. Finally, apply a fresh layer of lipstick, and you’re done! This is a simple way to fix any smudges and achieve a flawless look quickly.
3. How does a Korean person apply lipstick?
Smear concealer to the outer corners of your lips, and tint to the inner part. Blend the colour by pressing your lips together. Apply a lighter layer of tint to your lips, avoiding the edges. Blend it with your fingers. This will create a Korean-style gradient effect.
4. Do I need a lip liner for red lipstick?
Yes, it would be better to use a lip liner with red lipstick. It will also help the lipstick stay in place and prevent it from smudging.
5. What type of lipstick is best for beginners?
The best lipstick formula for beginners is a moisturising one, such as a tinted lip balm or lip gloss.
6. What are the different types of lipstick finishes, and how do they look?
There are various types of lipstick textures: matte, metallic, sheer, creamy, satin, and glossy. Each one creates a unique effect. For example, a matte texture provides intense colour, a satin texture gives a soft, natural shine, and a metallic texture provides a diamond-like sparkle.
7. How do you choose the right lipstick shade for your skin tone?
When picking lipstick, consider your skin tone and undertone. For example, shades with blue or purple undertones, such as berry and lilac, look great on cool-toned skin, while coral, red, and peach shades suit warm-toned skin. Nude shades with a pink undertone suit almost all skin tones. However, rich reds and dark plums look stunning on darker skin. Before buying, test several shades on the inside of your wrist.