Houston – Lipstick may be one of the quickest ways to transform a look, but choosing the right formula can feel overwhelming. With countless shades and finishes lining beauty aisles, knowing where to start can be just as challenging as finding the perfect color.
The good news? There are no hard rules when it comes to lipstick. The best choice comes down to personal comfort, your style, and the occasion.
Before reaching for any lipstick, makeup artist Darcie Teasley says healthy lips should always come first.
No matter how beautiful the color, lipstick won’t look its best if lips are dry or flaky.
- Start by gently exfoliating to remove dead skin. A soft toothbrush or disposable mascara wand works well for buffing away rough patches before makeup application.
- Next comes hydration. Apply a true lip balm while you’re doing the rest of your makeup so your lips have time to absorb the moisture before lipstick goes on.
Teasley also points out that not every product marketed for lips serves the same purpose. While products like ChapStick, Carmex, EOS, and Burt’s Bees are household names, they aren’t the same as moisturizing lip balms. Instead, she recommends reaching for products such as Vaseline, Aquaphor, Rosebud Salve, Kiehl’s Lip Balm, or other formulas designed to deeply hydrate lips.
Once your lips are prepped, it’s time to choose the finish that best fits your day.
satin finish
This is the most versatile option. It delivers rich color with a creamy, moisturizing feel that’s especially flattering for dry or textured lips. It’s comfortable enough for everyday wear and remains one of the most popular lipstick finishes available.
Matte finish
If you’re looking for maximum staying power, a matte lipstick is a classic choice. Matte formulas offer bold color payoff with no shine, making them ideal for weddings, parties, long workdays, or any event where you want your lipstick to last. While they can be more drying, they create a polished, sophisticated look that makes a statement.
Glossy finish
Gloss delivers a completely different effect. Its reflective finish helps lips appear fuller, smoother, and more youthful while providing lightweight hydration. Whether worn alone or layered over lipstick, gloss creates an effortless look that’s perfect for casual days or adding extra dimension to your favorite shade.
Still not sure which finish to choose? Think about how your lips feel and where you’re going.
If your lips tend to stay dry, satin or gloss may be your best bet. If you’re heading to a special event and want long-lasting color, matte is a great option. Satin sits comfortably in the middle, offering hydration with noticeable pigment.
Your lips, but better
Lip liner can also make a dramatic difference. For a natural “my lips but better” look, choose a liner that’s one or two shades deeper than your natural lip color. To create the illusion of fuller lips, use a liner slightly deeper than your lipstick, concentrating the darker shade around the Cupid’s bow and the center of the bottom lip. And for a timeless, classic lip, simply match your liner to your lipstick to create a clean edge while preventing feathering and bleeding.
One final pro tip: Always blend your lip liner by gently pressing your lips together before applying lipstick. It softens harsh lines, evens out pigment, and creates a smooth base that helps lipstick wear more evenly throughout the day.
Happy National Lipstick day, muah! 👄💄