What to Put on Before Lipstick?

We thoroughly assess all products before recommending them. We may be compensated if you choose to buy through links on our site.

Prep Your Pout: The Ultimate Lipstick Base

Perfect application starts long before you swipe on your favorite shade. A well-prepped canvas ensures smooth application, vibrant color, and lasting power. Learn the essential steps to create the ideal base for your lipstick, ensuring a flawless finish every time.

Exfoliate for a Smooth Canvas

Dry, flaky lips can make even the most luxurious lipstick look uneven and dull. Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells, revealing a smooth surface for application. Use a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to gently buff your lips. This simple step creates a smooth canvas, allowing for even pigment distribution and preventing lipstick from clinging to dry patches. Exfoliating also boosts circulation, giving your lips a naturally plump and healthy appearance.

Choosing the Right Exfoliant

• Sugar Scrubs:

  These offer gentle exfoliation and often incorporate hydrating ingredients.

• DIY Scrubs:

  Combine honey and sugar for a natural and effective option.

• Soft-Bristled Toothbrush:

  Gently massage lips in circular motions for a quick exfoliation.

Related Article: When Should You Throw Away Lipstick?
Related Article: Does Red Lipstick Make You Look Younger or Older?

Hydration is Key

Hydrated lips are happy lips! A lip balm provides essential moisture, preventing dryness and creating a smooth base for your lipstick. Choose a balm with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid for optimal hydration. Apply a generous layer and allow it to absorb fully before moving on to the next step. This creates a protective barrier, preventing your lipstick from drying out your lips and ensuring comfortable wear throughout the day.

Balm Types for Every Need

• Occlusive Balms:

  These create a barrier to lock in moisture, ideal for very dry lips.

• Humectant Balms:

  These draw moisture from the air to hydrate lips, suitable for most lip types.

• Tinted Balms:

  Offer a hint of color and hydration.

#1

Dior Rouge Dior Refillable Lipstick

Best Overall

$50 Ulta Beauty

★★★★☆ 1,227 Reviews

#2

Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Lip Oil Stick

Best Hydrating

$45 Nordstrom

★★★★☆ 868 Reviews

#3

Tom Ford Runway Lip Color

Best Plumping

$62 Sephora

★★★★☆ 894 Reviews

Prime Time: Lip Primer

Lip primer creates a smooth, even surface for your lipstick, helping it glide on effortlessly and stay put for hours. A good primer fills in fine lines and creates a barrier between your lipstick and your lips, preventing feathering and bleeding. Apply a thin layer of primer after your lip balm has absorbed, focusing on the edges of your lips where feathering is most likely to occur. This important step ensures a flawless and long-lasting application, maximizing the vibrancy and longevity of your chosen shade.

Primer Benefits

• Smoother Application:

  Primer fills in lines and creates a smooth surface.

• Prevents Feathering:

  Creates a barrier to stop lipstick from bleeding.

• Longer Wear:

  Helps lipstick last longer throughout the day.

Line and Define

Lip liner is your secret weapon for creating a defined lip shape and preventing lipstick from bleeding. Choose a liner that matches your lipstick shade or opt for a clear or nude liner for a versatile option. Carefully outline your lips, starting at the Cupid’s bow and working outwards. You can also fill in your entire lip with liner for added staying power and intensified color payoff. This technique provides a precise outline, enhancing your lip shape and preventing color from straying outside your lip line.

Liner Techniques

• Matching Liner:

  Use a liner that matches your lipstick for a defined look.

• Nude Liner:

  Creates a natural look and prevents feathering.

• Overlining:

  Carefully overline your lips to create the illusion of fuller lips.

Choose Your Lipstick Wisely

Now for the star of the show! Choose a formula and shade that suits your preferences and the occasion. Whether you prefer a creamy matte, a hydrating satin, or a high-shine gloss, ensure it complements your overall look. Apply your lipstick carefully, starting from the center of your lips and working outwards. Blot with a tissue and reapply for a more intense color and longer wear. Selecting the right product is important for achieving your desired look, from a subtle everyday hue to a bold statement lip.

Lipstick Formulas Decoded

• Matte:

  Offers a velvety, non-shiny finish.

• Satin:

  Provides a creamy finish with a subtle sheen.

• Gloss:

  Delivers a high-shine, reflective finish.

Setting the Stage for Long-Lasting Color

Once you’ve applied your lipstick, consider setting it with a translucent powder for added longevity. This simple trick helps absorb excess moisture and prevent smudging. Place a thin tissue over your lips and lightly dust translucent powder over the tissue with a brush. This creates a matte finish and locks in your lipstick color, ensuring it stays vibrant for hours. This extra step can be particularly beneficial for special occasions or when you want your lipstick to withstand eating and drinking.

Conclusion

Applying lipstick is more than just a quick swipe. By following these steps and understanding what to put on before lipstick, you can transform your lips into a flawless masterpiece. From exfoliation to setting powder, each step contributes to a long-lasting, vibrant, and perfectly polished pout. So, embrace these tips and unlock the full potential of your lipstick, creating a look that’s both captivating and enduring.