Clothes are not the only trend Fashionistas talk about after attending a Fashion Week show. Makeup trends also create a huge buzz among the crowds, especially around what the models were wearing on their lips. But before you head out to try the newest lipstick trend, you might want to know how to make it work in your makeup routine.
Choosing the Right Lipstick
Lipsticks come in all kinds of colors and are usually formulated as matte, crème or shimmer. Matte lipsticks will provide you with the truest color, but not much shine, and tend to be on the dry side. If you like the look of matte, but don’t want to your lips to feel dry, choose a semi-matte lipstick, or one that includes a moisturizer. You can also add a touch of gloss to your matte lipstick for a bit of shine.
Crème lipsticks are more dewy in nature, and are ideal if you tend to have dry lips. Finally, shimmer lipsticks are great for adding a bit of glam to your lips. They tend to contain flecks of color, which kind of sparkle in the light.
One of the newest options in lip color is lip stains, available in both liquid and gel formulas. These stains are formulated to enhance your natural lip color, or to provide a more intense color palette. While they tend to stay on your lips longer, they can be very drying.
Preparing Your Lips
Most women never give much thought to lip preparation. You probably apply moisturizer to your face before putting on your makeup, but do you put any moisturizer on your lips before putting on lipstick?
The key to getting your lipstick to last all day, isn’t multiple applications, it’s starting with a smooth, moisturized lip. One of the best ways to keep your lips hydrated is by using lip balm, especially during the dry, winter months. Wearing lip balm is great for when you are not wearing lipstick, but it is also works well as a lipstick primer. So, next time your moisturize your face, don’t forget your lips.
Another trick to giving your lipstick staying power is to apply a primer or a touch of foundation to your moisturized lips before applying your lipstick.
Proper Lipstick Application
Now that your lips are prepped, it is time to apply your lipstick.
Outline
First line your lips with a nude or light colored lip pencil. Another option is to use a lip liner that matches the shade of lipstick you will be wearing, as long as it is not darker than the shade. Start with the outside of your lips, and then fill in the rest of your lips.
Put Down Color
Next, take a lip brush and begin applying your lipstick. Lip brushes not only allow you to apply your lipstick with greater precision, but they also provide greater color control. For just a touch of color, apply one coat of your lipstick. If you really want your lips to pop, add another coat of lipstick.
A Little Shine
To finish off your look with a bit of shine, add a touch of gloss to the center of your bottom lip. Then, smack your lips together to spread the gloss across both your lips.
Remove Excess
Lastly, place a layer of tissue between or against your lips and lightly press to blot any excess. Reapply lip liner if needed.
