It’s possible to have that perfect pout every time, and we’re sharing tips and tricks to show you how.
You have it. You found the perfect lipstick for the summer, and you can’t wait to use it! There’s only one thing standing between you and the perfect pout, and that’s how to apply lipstick properly to give your makeup that polished look.
It seems easy, but you know yourself it’s not always the case, especially if you’re going for bolder colors like red. No one wants to end up with a lopsided smile, or lipstick smudged on their teeth, but it takes more than just a steady hand to apply it for great-looking lips. So, buckle up and keep reading to learn how to apply lipstick like a pro every single time.
1. Prep your lips
You may be on top of your skincare game, but do you take equal care of your lips? Regularly exfoliating and hydrating your lips goes a long way toward not only applying lipstick properly, but also ensuring it stays on all day. Use a gentle scrub (or even a damp toothbrush!) to peel off dry, patchy skin and nourish your lips with a lip balm or a lip primer before applying the lipstick for longer-lasting and prevent it from bleeding throughout the day.
2. Take care of the base
No lips are perfect, and we’re all bound to have discoloration or uneven lip tone. That’s why it’s important to set your base to smooth out imperfections before applying the lipstick, whether that’s darker patches or dual-toned lips. The base will also help bring out the true color of your lipstick, and make it last longer because the product will stick to your base. To set the base, you can simply use your regular foundation or a lip primer.
3. Time for the lip liner
Yes, the 90’s beauty trend of lip liners is back big time, but there’s another reason why using a lip liner will help you create a more natural look and make the lipstick last longer. Applying a lip liner around your natural lip line enhances their shape, prevents the lipstick from smudging, and guides you when applying the color. Make sure your lip liner is the same shade (or at least very close to) the shade of your lipstick, so you’re not looking like a 🤡.
4. Bring out the big guns
Now it’s time to apply your lipstick. Start by applying the product in the middle of your upper lip (just below the Cupid’s bow) and work your way outward to the corners of your lip. Repeat the same process on the bottom lip, starting from the middle and toward the corners. And while there’s nothing wrong with applying the lipstick straight from the tube, you’ll create a much more precise look by using a lipstick brush.
Pro tip: if you’re not happy with the final results, use a little concealer to erase any mistakes.
5. Don’t forget to blot
To finish up, grab a tissue or a napkin and press down (gently) on your lips to remove excess product and prevent it from staying on mugs or glasses throughout the day. You can even use a touch of finishing powder to set and secure your perfect lips.
