I’m sure most of you have had no choice but to see or even experience the rise of ‘lipstick’. Everyone from young adults like Kylie Jenner to veterans like Kate Moss for Rimmel London are constantly launching new shades and now finishes!
Personally I seldom deviate from my MAC Ruby Woo in the evenings or Mac Rebel in the day, but application of both always seems like such a process. With Boots launching their No. 7 lipstick matching service I’ve now tried matte lipsticks too!
Matte lipstick opened me up to a whole world of tutorials, because good lip moisture is paramount for perfection. Luckily I have a pre-teen in the house to help.
Just in case you don’t, here are my 5 tips for perfect lips:`
1. EXFOLIATION
“What!” You say… yes, exfoliation is the most important step for perfect lips. You definitely are going to need to exfoliate your lips especially if you are planning on wearing a matte lipstick.
One way to do this is to put a heavy amount of lip balm (I recommend EOS) on your lips and rub them gently with a toothbrush or damp flannel for several seconds. Alternatively you can buy or make a sugar scrub (recipe below) and apply it to your lips. Rub gently with a damp flannel, remove the excess, dry and apply lip balm to finish.
2. PRE APPLICATION
Your lips should be feeling really smooth and moisturised, but all excess lip balm needs to be removed. If you like deep colours (like me), to avoid staining your lips and to bring out the true shade you can apply the same foundation to your lips that you have/would use on your face. Remember to smile whilst applying foundation to your lips as it helps to cover all crevices.
3. APPLICATION
Lip liner (bare with me). Sounds a bit old fashioned, but highly recommended to make your lipstick last longer and stay in place. For a celebrity lipstick look, pick a lip liner that is slightly darker than the shade of lipstick. For a more neutral look, match your lip liner to your lipstick.
Always outline your lips with your lip liner before filling them in. ‘Over’ and ‘under’ lining is back… so create that perfect heart shaped lip line like they did in the 80’s.
4. FINISHING
Woohoo… For accuracy, use a lip brush and start in the middle of your lips and work your way out. Alternatively apply lipstick to your bottom lip and press your lips together to transfer the lipstick to your top lip. Fill in your cupid’s bow for a perfect application.
If you are using a matte lipstick, you will need to use your judgement on whether you need a second coat as some brands can be too thick and leave a ‘cakey’ appearance. If you are using a cream lipstick, a second coat is normally required especially if you have not used a lip brush.
5. PHOTO READY
If you are planning on taking photographs (or have the energy to party all night), then give your lipstick extra staying power. You can do this by putting blotting paper on your lips and apply pressed powder over it to really help the colour last.
Perfected it? Send us pictures of your perfect lips.
Sugar Scrub Recipe
Use one part sugar and one part Olive oil (alternatively use jojoba oil, coconut oil, or honey) mix well and apply it to your lips.
Cover Image from Pexels
