How to Apply Liquid Lipstick (You Might be Doing it Wrong)

While makeup trends come and go, it seems like matte lipstick is here to stay. With the “new normal” making mask-wearing mandatory, liquid lipsticks and other budge-proof makeup are quickly becoming must-haves for every makeup lover.

When it comes to transfer-proof lippies, Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is the one to beat. 

The latest Summer Spiced collection features six highly pigmented warm red, raw terracotta, and nude shades that can give you a much-needed pop of color. Best of all, it boasts a fade-proof and transfer-proof matte formulation that lasts up to 16 hours, which means you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off on and leaving stains on your mask. It truly is the ultimate summer-proof lipstick.

To get the best results with your matte lipsticks, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply liquid lipstick the right way.

1. Exfoliate for pre-lipstick prep

Dry and flaking lips are the bane of any lippie lover, more so when it comes to liquid lipsticks. Rough textures on the lips can get in the way of even application. Products like long-wear lipsticks may even have trouble staying on when applied on cracked lips. 

So, before applying your matte lipstick, gently exfoliate your lips to create a smooth surface. You can use a lip scrub, washcloth, or old toothbrush to get the job done.

2. Moisturize and blot off the excess

Wearing matte lipstick for long hours can be drying on the lips, which is why applying a moisturizing lip balm is essential. Maybelline Baby Lips is a great lip balm for this, as its formula is designed to keep your lips supple and hydrated for hours.

However, any oil or grease on the lips can also interfere with even the best liquid lipstick, so you want to leave the lip balm on only for a few minutes, and then gently wipe any excess off with a clean tissue. Your lips will feel softer and more hydrated but still dry enough to apply the lipstick on.

3. Line your lips

Getting a precise lip line using your liquid lipstick applicator takes a lot of practice and patience. A lip liner gives you the crisp outline you need while being more forgiving with errors. Additionally, using a lip liner can prevent some dark liquid lipstick shades from bleeding into the surrounding skin.

To start lining your lips, draw an “X” where your cupid’s bow is. From the top of “X,” trace each side of the top lip line down to the corners of your mouth. Then, trace from the center of the bottom lip line towards the corner of your mouth. 

4. Blend in the edges of your lip line

Once you’ve lined your lips, you now need to blend in the edges of the lip line. This is a good step if your lip line looks a bit rough and you want your lip liner to blend with your liquid lipstick.

Using a clean cotton bud or lip brush, lightly smudge the outer edges of your lip line. For the inner edge—the edge on the inside of your lips—work inwards to create a more seamless look between your lip liner and the lipstick once you apply the liquid lipstick.

5. Start applying lipstick from the inner part of your lips

The innermost part of the lips, where your lips purse, is a great place to start the lipstick application for a few reasons. 

First, it gives you enough space to distribute the liquid lipstick evenly without worrying about going over your lip line. Second, since this area receives a lot of movement and friction when talking, starting here gives the liquid lipstick the chance to dry down first. 

Finally, you can easily tweak your application to build up the color better or create a more precise line when working outwards.

6.Build up the color with light layers

One good tip for putting on liquid lipstick correctly is to start with a thin, light layer. This gives you better control over how intense you want the color to be. Lipsticks like the Maybelline Sensational Liquid Matte Lip Tint allow for good color buildup without feeling heavy on the lips. 

Here are a couple of techniques that can help you keep your layers thin.

• Wipe any excess product from the applicator on the tip of the lipstick container to get just the right amount. 

• Luckily, the SuperStay Matte Ink features a unique arrow applicator that’s perfect for precise application. It picks up just the right amount of product from the tube so you won't need to keep re-dipping.
• Lightly cover your bottom lip with a liquid lipstick and quickly press your top and bottom lips together. This lets you transfer and distribute the color.

Repeat these techniques until you are satisfied with the resulting color.

7. Clean up any mistakes

Some people find matte lipsticks daunting because they dry down quickly, giving little leeway for mistakes. Luckily, there are a few ways you can clean up any accidental spots, smears, or clumsy lines.

Here are few pointers to keep in mind:

• If the liquid lipstick is still wet, use a cotton bud with some Maybelline Eye and Lip Makeup Remover. Wipe the mistake with the cotton bud, preferably in the direction of your lips.
• Liquid lipstick can leave a stain on your face, so working towards the lip lets you minimize how far the stain goes. Retouch your makeup after.
• If the liquid lipstick has dried, you can use a cotton bud or brush with a concealer like the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer to cover any problem spots and clean up your outer lip line.

Lighter-coverage concealers may not be able to hide the mistakes effectively, especially for lipsticks in darker colors.

Apply Liquid Lipstick Like A Pro

As a makeup lover, you know first-hand the confidence-boosting power of a perfectly applied liquid lipstick. Even when worn under a mask, lipstick can make you feel empowered. When applied correctly, you can fully enjoy your long-wear lipstick and not worry about smudging.

Know someone who needs to up their lip game? Share this article with them on social media!