We all know the thrill of finding the perfect lipstick shade, but have you ever wondered how makeup artists achieve such flawless lips? It's not just about applying the color; the secret lies in preparation and technique.

In this guide, we're sharing pro tips on how to prep, apply, and maintain lipstick like a makeup artist, ensuring your lips always look defined, smooth, and vibrant.

Prep Your Lips for Perfection

Before applying any lipstick, we must remember the importance of prepping our lips. This ensures that the color goes on smoothly and lasts longer. Skipping prep can result in uneven or cracked lipstick, so let's take the time to follow these simple steps:

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a game-changer! We recommend exfoliating our lips at least once a week to remove dead skin. This can be done with a lip scrub or by using a DIY mix of fine sugar and coconut or olive oil. Alternatively, a soft toothbrush can do the trick.

Hydrate

Hydrated lips are plump and smooth. We can combat dry lips by using a nourishing lip balm, applied morning and night. Applying it before starting makeup ensures it has time to work its magic, leaving our lips soft and ready for lipstick.

Moisturize

Don't forget the skin around our lips! This area can develop fine lines, causing lipstick to bleed. By moisturizing the surrounding skin, we create a smooth base for lipstick to stay in place and prevent it from migrating into lines. We recommend using a rich moisturizer to keep the entire face hydrated, especially around the lip area.

Perfect Lipstick Application

Now that our lips are prepped, let's focus on applying the lipstick like a pro. Follow these steps for an application that lasts all day:

Step 1: Line and Fill with Lip Liner

Lip liner is essential for defining our lips and preventing lipstick from bleeding. We can either line just along the edge of the lips for definition or slightly overline to create the illusion of fuller lips. The key is to blend the liner with the lipstick to avoid any harsh lines.

Step 2: Apply Lipstick from the Center

Start applying lipstick from the center of the lips for the most control. Work your way outward, following the natural lip line. This ensures an even application and a smoother finish.

Step 3: Blot and Reapply

Blotting is a classic trick to prevent lipstick from cracking or fading. After the first layer of lipstick, gently press our lips together with a tissue to remove any excess product. Then, reapply and blot again for long-lasting color.

Step 4: Add Gloss for Shine (Optional)

For a glossy finish, we can add a layer of lip gloss on top of the lipstick. A nourishing, non-sticky gloss will keep lips shiny without making them feel heavy. Choose a gloss that complements our lipstick shade for a cohesive look.

Final Tips for Long-Lasting Lipstick

To keep our lips looking fabulous all day, we must remember to avoid touching our lips too much. Drinking through a straw can also help preserve the lipstick's vibrancy. Lastly, carry a small lipstick or lip gloss for touch-ups throughout the day to ensure your pout stays fresh!

By following these pro tips, we can achieve the perfect lipstick look every time—whether it's a bold red. Ready to rock your flawless lips?