This is my ultimate guide to applying lipstick tutorial. An all encompassing how to on applying your lip color.
I get questions asking about what are the best lipstick application tips and tricks quite often. I already have a video on applying a red lip and lipstick. I figured for those who prefer blog posts with photos, I'd make one for you too. You will be able to apply lipstick like a pro once we’re done!
This tutorial will cover each of the steps I take to apply lipstick so it will look nice & clean and last longer.
Follow along if you'd like to learn how to apply lipstick that lasts and has a crisp, clean application. Great for weddings, date-nights and prom makeup.
Using a lip liner helps to prevent your lip color from feathering outside the lines and it also helps your lipstick wear longer. As for what shade to pick, choose one that is similar in tone to your shade of lipstick that also has a matte finish. A good rule of thumb is to match the finish of your lipstick with your lip liner, so pair matte lipstick with matte lip liner and pair satin lipstick with satin lip liner. If you’re on the hunt for a good matte lip liner, we like the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner because the formula is comfortable on the lips and it comes in eight shades.
Editor’s tip: If you want to fake the appearance of fuller lips, overline your lips with a shade of lip liner that’s two to three shades darker than your lipstick.
It’s easy to go a little out of bounds with lip liner, but a crisp line of concealer can help to fix that, and it can make a really big difference in the overall application of your lipstick. After applying your lipstick, use the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer up to 24H Full Coverage and a lip brush to carve out the shape of your lips with concealer. This will take care of any crooked lines or imperfections and your lipstick application will look near perfect.
The makeup cleanser that you use to remove your makeup will also be able to remove your lipstick. If you’re looking for a good option, we suggest the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser because it’s gentle and hydrating. You want to avoid harshly scrubbing at your lips to remove your lipstick at all costs so a good cleanser is a must. If you’re wearing a waterproof matte lipstick, try a waterproof makeup remover like micellar water, or the L’Oréal Paris Ideal Clean All Skin Types Makeup Removing Towelettes.
Now that you have the tools s to enhance your matte lipstick application, here are a few things you should avoid.
Once you’re done exfoliating your lips, reach for a hydrating lip balm to moisturize your pout before applying matte lipstick. Moisturizing your lips will help your lipstick apply more evenly, just like a makeup primer does for your foundation. After you’ve given your lip balm 10 minutes or so to absorb, reach for a matte primer, like the L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24H Matte Setter. Apply a small dot on your finger or makeup sponge and lightly blend it onto your lips to prime the area.
Matte lipstick is pigmented, which means you don’t have to apply layer after layer to get full coverage. In fact, you shouldn’t because it will make your lipstick look textured and it could potentially crack and look uneven.
One swipe of the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Lip Crayon, Lasting Wear, Smudge Resistant across your top and bottom lip is more than enough to achieve full-color coverage. Whether you use matte lipstick straight out of the tube, or a liquid lipstick that comes with a wand applicator, go slowly and use a mirror for precise, mess-free application.
Overlining your lips can create the appearance of a fuller-looking pout, but it’s easy to go overboard with lip liner. Make sure that you’re only applying it slightly outside your natural lip line to keep your makeup look from appearing unnatural.
If you made a mistake with your lipstick or lip liner, you don’t have to take off your matte lipstick entirely. Instead, dip a cotton swab into a bottle of micellar water and dab it on any areas of color you’d like to remove. Once you’ve cleaned up the area, reapply your lipstick for an even coat and touch up the makeup around your lip line with concealer and a small blending brush.
Next: 10 Best Long-Lasting Lipsticks to Pucker Up to Right Now
Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Digital Tech: Erik Dalzen, Photo Assistant: Sam Kang, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Mirna Jose, Hair Assistant: Keila Rivera, Wardrobe Stylist: Alexis Badiyi, Wardrobe Assistant: Jazmine Alzado, Model: Zlata Semenko