Liquid lipstick has become a game-changer in the world of beauty. With its ability to stay put for hours and provide rich, vibrant color, it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among makeup enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, as with any makeup product, liquid lipstick requires a bit of finesse to apply perfectly. From prepping your lips to creating a flawless finish, let’s break down how to apply liquid lipstick like a pro. Plus, we’ll throw in some expert advice to make sure you feel like a makeup artist every time you swipe on that perfect pout.
Prepping Your Lips is the Key to Success
Before you even think about applying liquid lipstick, prepping your lips is essential to ensure a smooth application. Dry, chapped lips can make even the most beautiful shade of liquid lipstick look patchy, so it’s important to start with a clean, smooth base.
Celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury once said, “The key to perfect lips is in the prep.” This couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to liquid lipstick. Exfoliating your lips is the first step. Gently scrub away any dead skin using a lip scrub, or you can use a DIY solution by mixing sugar and honey or olive oil. Gently rub the mixture on your lips in a circular motion. If you don’t have an exfoliator on hand, a soft toothbrush can also work wonders for removing flakes.
Once exfoliated, it’s time to moisturize. Apply a hydrating lip balm to lock in moisture and create a smooth surface. Let the balm absorb into your lips for a few minutes before moving on to the next step. This helps ensure that your lipstick doesn’t flake or dry out. You can also use a lip primer to further smooth out the surface and create a base that helps the lipstick adhere better.
Creating a Clean Canvas
Many makeup artists, including the famous Pat McGrath, emphasize the importance of prepping not just the lips but also the surrounding areas. “I always start by cleaning up the lip line with a foundation or concealer to ensure the lips look neat,” says McGrath. If you’re applying foundation or concealer to your face, take the excess product on your brush or sponge and gently dab it around your lips. This will neutralize any natural pigmentation on your lips and provide a clean base for your lipstick.
Using a concealer that matches your skin tone helps define the edges of your lips and makes the lipstick application much sharper and cleaner. This step also allows you to shape your lips and correct any uneven areas. A neat lip line is crucial for achieving that professional finish.
Applying Liquid Lipstick Like a Pro
Now comes the fun part: applying the liquid lipstick itself. Here’s where things can get tricky for some, but with a little technique, you can achieve the flawless finish you’re after.
Start by outlining your lips with the applicator. Begin with the cupid’s bow at the top and work your way down to the corners of your lips. Make sure to follow the natural lip shape, being careful not to go outside the lines. The key is to create a defined outline before filling in the center of your lips.
Celebrity makeup artist Huda Kattan once shared her top tip for achieving perfect lip lines: “Don’t rush when outlining your lips. Take your time, and be patient. This step is the secret to the most flawless, clean lip looks.” It’s easy to rush through the outlining part, but remember that patience pays off in the end. A crisp, defined lip line can make all the difference.
After outlining, use the applicator to fill in the rest of your lips. You can apply a single layer for a lighter, more natural look, or layer on a second coat for a more intense, dramatic effect. If you’re looking for a truly bold lip, layering will help achieve that extra pop of color. Just be sure to wait a few seconds between layers to allow the first layer to dry slightly, preventing smudging and ensuring an even finish.
Perfecting the Edges
One of the trickiest parts of applying liquid lipstick is ensuring the edges are neat and flawless. If you make a mistake or the lipstick goes beyond your natural lip line, don’t worry. Professional makeup artists have a secret trick: a small lip brush or a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover can help clean up those edges.
Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic, known for working with Kim Kardashian, advises, “If you’re trying to achieve the perfect lip line, a concealer brush with a bit of foundation or concealer around the lip edges works wonders. It sharpens the line and keeps everything looking clean.” Simply dip a concealer brush or cotton swab into some makeup remover or concealer, and carefully go around the edges to clean up any mistakes. This step ensures you’re left with crisp, professional-looking lips.
Allow the Lipstick to Dry
Unlike traditional lipsticks, liquid lipstick has a matte finish and dries down quickly. To ensure that your lipstick lasts longer, allow it to dry completely before eating, drinking, or touching your lips. Most liquid lipsticks dry down within a few seconds, but if you’re applying multiple layers, give each layer time to set. This prevents smudging and ensures that the color stays vibrant all day long.
Makeup artists like Lisa Eldridge often recommend applying a thin layer of translucent powder over your lips to help lock in the color and prevent it from transferring onto your clothes or glasses. Just be sure to use a very light hand with the powder, as you don’t want to disrupt the matte finish or texture of the liquid lipstick.
Touching Up Throughout the Day
While liquid lipstick is known for its long-lasting power, no lipstick is truly indestructible. As the day goes on, you may need to do a quick touch-up, especially after eating or drinking. If the color starts to fade, use a matching lip liner to redefine the edges and apply a light layer of liquid lipstick over the top.
When touching up, make sure to only apply a small amount of product to avoid clumping. If you’re in a hurry, use a cotton swab to clean up any excess product, ensuring you don’t go overboard.
Hydration is Key
While liquid lipsticks are amazing for their staying power, they can sometimes leave your lips feeling dry. To keep your lips hydrated throughout the day, consider applying a small amount of lip balm over the lipstick. If you’re using a matte liquid lipstick, opt for a clear, non-glossy balm to maintain the matte effect without disrupting the color. It’s important not to over-apply the balm, as too much product can mess with the finish and cause the color to smudge.
Final Thoughts from Experts
To wrap up, liquid lipstick is a powerful beauty tool that can help you achieve bold, long-lasting lip looks. With the right technique, a little patience, and some pro tips, you can apply liquid lipstick like a makeup artist. As makeup legend Bobbi Brown once said, “The best makeup is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable.” So, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades, finishes, and techniques until you find the liquid lipstick look that makes you feel fabulous.
Whether you’re prepping for a special event or just adding a pop of color to your daily routine, mastering the art of liquid lipstick application will have you rocking that perfect pout like a pro every time.
