How to Apply Lipstick: A Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Lips
Achieving that flawless lip can seem like an impossible feat sometimes. Let’s face it. We have ALL been there. Lipstick on. Mirror check. Perfect. Now two hours later, you realize that your lipstick has worn off onto your breakfast plate/lunch napkin/shirt. UGH. This is even more frustrating when you live in a humid country like Malaysia.
The key to perfecting your pout isn't about what lipstick you wear—it's about how you wear it. With a few tweaks to your technique, you’ll be on your way to photo-ready lips in no time! Here are some handy steps to ensure you apply your lipstick correctly. From prepping your lips to sealing the color, we cover all you need to know so that anyone can master the art of lipstick. Read on to find out the foolproof steps to a long-lasting smile.
Step 1: Start with Lip Prep and Lip Treatment
Would you paint on a dirty wall? No. Don't skip this step. Applying color on top of dry lips will most likely yield a chalky, patchy result. To correct for this, gently buff away the dead skin on your lips with a scrub or a soft toothbrush. Once your lips are nice and smooth, apply a nourishing lip balm.
We love Cyber Colors Lip Balm from Sa Sa that hydrates and primes your lips. Leave it on for a few minutes while you do your eye makeup. Once your eyes are done, gently blot off any excess oils with a tissue. Not only will your lipstick not slide around, but it will also have something to hold onto!
Step 2: Neutralize Your Natural Lip Color
Because it can get humid here in Malaysia, having a strong base will ensure that everything applies smoothly and stays put. Also, if you have pigmented lips, sometimes the color you see in the tube may not be the color you end up with. To make sure you are getting the right color, apply a small amount of concealer on your lips or use a lip primer. This step will neutralize your lip color.
Step 3: Line Your Lips Using a Lip Liner
Now, grab a lip liner. This tool is the secret to keeping your look sharp and will prevent feathering later on. Start by drawing an ‘X’ at your cupid's bow to get that defined peak. Don't just outline the edges, though. Fill in your entire lip with the liner to act as a glue for the next layer.
Step 4: Apply Lipstick Perfectly or Use a Lip Brush
Now we can start wearing lipstick. There are two techniques for applying lipstick; both depend on the finish you are going for. If you want that juicy painted-on look, then just run the lipstick bullet directly across your lips. If you have trouble lining your lips or are using a deep matte shade, use a lip brush.
Lip brushes help keep you from going outside your lines and help work the product into the lip's texture. A fantastic choice for vibrant color is the Pupa Miss Lipstick, available at Sa Sa. It glides on easily and gives you that high-impact pout instantly. Start applying from the center and blend outwards to keep the corners neat.
Step 5: Blot, Set, and Perfect Your Pout
You want your hard work to stick around. The key to turning any bullet into a long-wearing lipstick is layering. Grab a tissue and fold it in half. Place it between your lips; now blot. This quick tissue blot will pick up excess oils and wax that cause your lipstick to slip.
Separate one layer of tissue and hold it over your mouth. Now, dust translucent powder through the tissue. This technique will set the pigment in place. Apply one more layer of color, and you are good to go!
Trending Techniques: Makeup Artistry for a Fresh Lip Look
Looking to change things up? You do not always have to rock the fully pigmented vibe every day. Gradient lips, stemming from Korean beauty trends, are massive in Malaysia. All you have to do is apply color to the center of your lips. Take your finger and tap around to blend the color outwards.
It creates a stained, ombre effect that looks sexy and youthful. If you prefer your lips to appear fuller, then try overlining your lips. Delicately place your liner just a tad outside your natural lip line. Focus on the center area and keep the corners tight to your real shape so it doesn't look strange.
Choosing the Right Texture: Lip Gloss, Satin, or Matte?
Texture also plays a huge role, especially if you live in this hot and humid weather. A matte liquid lipstick will always be your safest option because they are made to be transfer-proof. You won’t have to worry about it rubbing off when you sweat throughout the day. For a softer, stained look that complements gradient lips, try Banila Co Sheer Velvet Veil Tint from Sa Sa.
It gives you that light skin feel but has enough color buildup to last you hours. Even matching your undertone can help you decide what red or pink will look best against your skin. Cool skin tones should gravitate towards blue-based reds, and warm skin tones pair well with orange-reds. Mixing up these tips and tricks is key to creating a unique style that will withstand the humidity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in This Apply Lipstick Tutorial
Double-check yourself before you leave the house. We have all grinned and caught a swipe of color on our teeth. To avoid this catastrophe, place a clean finger into your mouth. Close your lips around your finger and pull it out. Any residual color will be on your finger instead of your teeth.
Applying too many coats is another pitfall that will make your lips look uneven. When you notice this happening, gently press a tissue onto your lips to absorb some of the product. Lastly, make sure you neaten up the edges. A little bit of concealer on a small brush can sharpen the line if your hand is not steady.
Shop Your Signature Red Lip Today
When the day is over, make sure to remove everything properly. Stubborn formulas require a proper remover in order to keep your skin clear. It may take some getting used to, but trust me when I say it is worth the pout. Whether you’re feeling like a bold red for date night or a sheer tint for work, there is a way to apply your lipstick correctly. Now that you have learned the hacks for keeping your lips flawless, go forth and experiment with colors.
Visit the Sa Sa website right now to browse our full collection and place your order. Grab the lipsticks and tools we mentioned above and get them delivered straight to your door!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I make my lipstick stay on all day?
To make lipstick last longer, you need to layer it correctly. First, exfoliate your lips to remove dead skin so the surface is smooth. After adding color, blot your lips with a tissue and dust some setting powder over them. This trick helps lock in moisture and pigment, ensuring your makeup look survives the humidity.
2. What is the secret to a smooth application?
It all starts with lip prep. If you have flaky skin, your lipstick application will look uneven. Use a lip scrub to clear away dead skin cells and then moisturize your lips. This creates a soft base for applying lip color. A lip liner will help define your edges for that perfect pout.
3. Which lipstick finish should I choose?
It depends on the style you want! A matte lipstick is great for a long day because it doesn't smudge easily. If you prefer something shiny, a satin lipstick or lip gloss is perfect. Whether you want a classic red lip or a subtle nude lip, checking out different lipstick formulas at Sa Sa helps you find the right match.
4. How can I make my lips look fuller?
You can make your lips look bigger by slightly overlining your natural lip shape. Focus on the center of your bottom lip and the cupid's bow. Using a brush to apply your lipstick shade gives you a more precise application. This is a simple lipstick tutorial tip used by makeup artists everywhere.
5. How do I stop lipstick from getting on my teeth?
After you apply the lipstick, put a clean finger in your mouth, close your lips around it, and pull it out. This helps remove excess product from the inside of your mouth. For a flawless lipstick application, you can also use a lip pencil to fill in your lips with a lip liner first, which keeps everything in place.
Author
Mei Ling Cheng is a seasoned beauty expert with over 15 years of experience in makeup artistry and skincare consulting. As a leading beauty advisor at Sa Sa Malaysia, she helps customers achieve flawless, long-lasting looks.
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