Putting color on your lips is a fun and easy way to enhance your look. With so many lip color options available, from glosses to stains to matte lipsticks, you can achieve a variety of looks. Here is a guide to help you choose the right lip color products and techniques for you.
What are the different types of lip color?
There are several main categories of lip color:
- Lipstick – Classic lipstick comes in cream, matte, or satin finishes. It provides opaque, full coverage color.
- Lip gloss – Lip glosses contain oils and other ingredients to give your lips shine. They come in sheer tints or opaque colors.
- Lip stain – Lip stains deposit color onto your lips that lasts longer than lipstick. The color often appears more natural.
- Lip balm – Lip balms provide hydration and usually a sheer wash of color.
- Lip crayon – Lip crayons have a waxier texture than lipsticks. They glide onto lips easily but are not as long-lasting.
How do I choose the right lip color?
When selecting a lip color, consider the following factors:
- Skin undertone – Are you warm, cool, or neutral undertoned? Warm undertones look best in peaches and oranges. Cool undertones pair well with berry hues. Neutral undertones can wear both.
- Lips pigmentation – Do you have pale or pigmented lips? Pale lips pair well with bolder colors. Pigmented lips look great with nudes and lighter shades.
- Hair color – Lip shades can complement or contrast your hair color for different effects.
- Outfit – Match your lip color to your clothing for a pulled-together look.
- Occasion – Sheer glosses work well for daytime. Matte lipsticks make a statement for night.
How do I apply lip color?
Follow these steps for flawless lip color application:
- Exfoliate – Use a lip scrub to remove dry skin.
- Moisturize – Apply lip balm and let it soak in to prime lips.
- Line – Outline your lips with liner for definition.
- Apply color – Apply lipstick or gloss directly from the tube or use a brush.
- Blend – Use your finger to blend color for a natural look.
What are some tips for making lip color last?
Here are some tips for extending the wear of your lip color:
- Apply to bare lips – Skip lip balm right before application so the color adheres better.
- Use a lip primer – Primers create a smooth surface for even application.
- Blot lips – Press tissue paper between lips after application to remove excess.
- Use a setting powder – Dust a thin layer of powder over lip color to seal it in.
- Apply gloss on top – Add a layer of gloss for shine and to help prevent transfer.
- Avoid oily foods – Greasy foods can break down long-wearing formulas.
- Reapply often – Refresh color every few hours, especially after eating or drinking.
What are some popular lip color trends?
Some of the latest lip color trends include:
| Trend | Description |
|---|---|
| Matte lips | Velvety, opaque matte lipsticks |
| Liquid lips | Highly-pigmented liquid lipsticks |
| Metallic lips | Shimmery gold, rose gold, and silver |
| Ombre lips | Darker on the inner lips fading outwards |
| Neutral nudes | MLBB (my lips but better) shades |
What are some tips for applying lipstick?
Tips for flawless lipstick application include:
- Moisturize lips first
- Use lip liner to define shape
- Apply starting from the cupid’s bow outwards
- Blot lips with tissue to set color
- Use a lip brush for precise application
- Refresh color every few hours
- Keep lipstick on hand for quick touch ups
- Clean up edges with concealer if needed
How do you keep lipstick from smearing or transferring?
To prevent lipstick smearing or transferring:
- Use a lip primer before application
- Press and blot lips after applying color
- Apply a setting powder over lipstick
- Choose transfer-resistant lipstick formulas
- Use a lip liner to fill in edges
- Blot with tissue before drinking from cups
- Reapply lipstick often after eating/drinking
What ingredients should I avoid in lip products if I have sensitive lips?
If you have sensitive lips, avoid lip products containing these ingredients:
- Fragrance
- Flavor oils
- Formaldehyde
- Parabens
- Lanolin
- Propylene glycol
- Chemical sunscreens
- Artificial dyes
Opt for lip products labeled non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, or for sensitive skin instead.
What are some natural ways to get colored lips?
Some natural options for coloring your lips include:
- Beetroot juice – Gives a reddish pink stain
- Berry juices – Such as blueberry or raspberry
- Pomegranate juice
- Cranberry juice
- Turmeric mixed with coconut oil
- Carrot juice
- Cherry juice
- Hibiscus tea
You can apply these juices or steeped teas directly onto lips with either a small brush or your finger. Let dry slightly before blotting for long-lasting stains.
How can I get rid of lipstick stains?
To remove lipstick stains:
- Apply petroleum jelly and wipe away
- Dab with baking soda paste
- Use hydrogen peroxide followed by washing
- Try rubbing alcohol
- Scrub with dry soap bar
- Spray with hairspray before laundering
- Use pre-wash stain stick
Getting lipstick stains out as soon as possible gives the best chance for removal. Once set in, they can be difficult to fully eliminate.
Conclusion
With so many lip color options from natural stains to long-lasting liquid lipsticks, you can easily add color to your lips. Consider your skin tone, occasion, and formula when choosing a shade. Apply and care for it properly so the color lasts. With these tips, you’ll master lipstick, lip gloss, and more in no time!