At first glance, learning how to apply liquid lipstick may seem intuitive. But in reality, it’s not always as simple as swiping on your favorite gloss.
Liquid formulas combine the pigment of a classic lipstick with the controlled application of a lip-gloss wand. It typically goes on wet, and dries into a smudge-proof texture. The product is loved by makeup artists and enthusiasts alike for its staying power: “A liquid lipstick will be more long-lasting and overall wear longer throughout the day than a regular lipstick,” Steve Kassajikian, head of global artistry for Urban Decay, tells Glamour. “Plus, you won’t get transfer or bleeding with a liquid lipstick that you might experience from a solid.”
Whether you’re after a statement lip or a pillowy neutral pout, liquid lipstick is a product you can count on to elevate your whole look—and last. Below, pro makeup artists share their best tips for maximizing your liquid lip.
How to prep your lips for liquid lipstick
Experts say that the most common mistake when using liquid lipstick is not preparing your lips properly for the product. “Lip care prior to applying liquid lipstick is essential for a smooth application,” says Lauren D’Amelio Ventre, a celebrity makeup artist. Before you go in with makeup, “exfoliate the lips with a gentle lip scrub to remove dry skin and to avoid patchiness,” Kassajikian says. “Then apply a lip balm to bring moisture back into the lips.”
Once some hydration has soaked in, blot your balm off your lips for a drier base. An optional next step is applying a lipstick primer—“but it’s not really needed if you prep by exfoliating and hydrating,” D’Amelio Ventre says.
How to apply liquid lipstick, step by step
After prepping your lips for the product (see above), experts recommend tracing the outline of your lips with a lip liner. “I always prefer a liner before applying liquid lipstick. It works as a barrier and gives you an outline to achieve the perfect lip shape,” Kassajikian says. D’Amelio Ventre agrees: “It comes down to personal preference, but it just makes the liquid lipstick look bolder and sharper.”
