Putting on lipstick can feel like a small act of magic; one swipe, and you’re instantly brighter and bolder. But as the hours go by, that magic seems to disappear—especially after a coffee break or a quick snack. Does it ever feel like your lipstick is determined to make a quick exit? Thankfully, you don’t have to settle for color that fades fast. By following a few simple, easy-to-remember tips, you can make that gorgeous shade last from dawn to dusk. Let’s explore some ways to make your lipstick as committed to lasting as you are!
Prep Your Lips for Success
Just like you wouldn’t paint a wall without prepping it first, your lips need a bit of care and attention before you apply lipstick. Prepping ensures a smooth, even application, which ultimately helps your lipstick last longer.
- Exfoliate Your Lips: One of the best ways to start is by gently exfoliating. Dry, flaky lips can cause lipstick to look patchy and uneven, and the color won’t adhere as well. You can use a lip scrub or even a soft toothbrush to gently buff away any dead skin.
- Hydrate with Lip Balm: After exfoliating, add a layer of moisture with a good-quality lip balm. This step is essential for keeping your lips soft and preventing them from drying out under layers of lipstick. But here’s the trick—apply it and then give it a few minutes to sink in. Blot away any excess with a tissue, so your lips are hydrated but not too slippery when you apply color.
Taking the time to prep might feel like an extra step, but it makes a huge difference in how well your lipstick holds up.
Prime and Line for Lasting Power
Think of a lip primer and liner as your lipstick’s best friends. They work together to create a solid foundation and outline, helping to prevent feathering and fading.
- Use a Lip Primer: Lip primers are designed to help lipstick stick around longer. They smooth out your lips and give the lipstick something to grip onto. Just like a primer for your face or eyelids, this little trick can make a big difference.
- Line with Lip Liner: Lip liner not only helps to define your lips, but it also creates a barrier that keeps the color from bleeding outside the lines. Choose a liner that matches your lipstick shade (or is close to your natural lip color) and outline your lips. For even more staying power, fill in your lips with the liner too—this gives your lipstick a base layer to cling to.
If you’re skipping liner, consider giving it a shot. It’s a quick step that keeps everything in place and can even help give your lips a fuller look!
Choose Long-Wear Lipstick Formulas
The type of lipstick you choose can have a huge impact on how long it lasts. Some formulas are specifically designed to stay put, while others are made to be more hydrating and may wear off faster.
- Matte Lipsticks: Matte lipsticks tend to be more long-wearing because they don’t have as much oil or shine, which can cause the color to slide off. If you like a matte look, these are a great choice for longevity.
- Liquid Lipsticks: Liquid formulas can dry down to a budge-proof finish, making them ideal for all-day wear. However, they can be drying, so make sure your lips are well-prepped before applying them.
- Lip Stains: Stains are designed to soak into your lips, so they often stick around longer than regular lipstick. They can give a more natural, “just bitten” look, which is perfect if you prefer a subtler finish.
Choosing a long-wear formula is like choosing the right shoes for a long walk—you need something durable that can handle the journey!
Layer and Blot for Maximum Hold
Have you ever noticed that layering a bit of color and then blotting seems to make your lipstick last longer? It’s not just in your head; this technique actually works! By layering and blotting, you’re pressing the color into your lips, giving it more staying power.
