Makeup Monday: Makeup 101: Lipsticks
Well, this is the last installment of my “Makeup 101” series. In my last post I talked about mascara, which one is right for you and now we are down to the last part of makeup and that is the lips, and, in this post, I break it down so you can find the right formulations and shades that are best for you, so let’s get into it…
Finding The Best Lipstick For Your Skin Tone
Unfortunately not all shades complement every skin tone. Red lipstick alone has such a wide variety and complexions vary just as much as lipstick shades, so, if you can, my advice is to always test colors against your skin before you decide. If your skin has more of a pink undertone, I suggest trying cool-based colors while medium to darker complexions pair well with warmer, coral hues. You can also mix different lipstick shades to come up with your own custom shade.
How to Decide Between Satin, Shimmer, Matte, or Glossy
Lipsticks come in a variety of textures, so how do you decide between them all? It’s great if you already have a personal preference, but for beauty newcomers my advice is to test away. I usually wear a subtle, neutral gloss for daytime and reserve bold satins and shimmers for going out. Bold is beautiful, just remember that upkeep is key! If you prefer something more subtle, tinted lip balms or tinted lip oils and lip glosses should do the trick.
Drugstore vs. Department Store
While it’s true that paying top dollar for quality lipsticks is worth it, many of us do not have the funds to purchase high-end lipsticks. The drugstores on the other hand have some hidden gems. Maybelline Color Sensational lipstick line, Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick line, and Milani lipstick line all have a wide range of colors and formulations, and these drugstore brands have the best lipsticks on the market in my opinion and are affordable too. Just remember, when selecting lipstick shades at the drugstore, you cannot test the shades in-store. So, once you find and purchase the shade (or shades) you are interested in, keep your receipt, so if a shade does not work out, you can exchange or return it! I feel that (just like with mascara), you do not have to spend a fortune on lipsticks (or any lip products for that matter) and buying lipstick at your local drugstore allows you to test colors and textures without breaking the bank.
Application Tips
With lipstick, moisture is everything (especially if you are using a matte lipstick or a liquid lipstick). Chapped lips can ruin the perfect pout, so prior to application I recommend making sure your lips are both exfoliated and moisturized. Once lips are prepped, you can line your lips with a coordinating lip liner shade to define your lips first (I usually do not line my lips, but if I do, I love lip liners from NYX), then follow the natural shape of your lips with your lipstick making sure to stay inside the lines. After you have fully applied your lipstick, lightly blot your lips with a tissue for a polished, even look. This will also lessen the chance of you getting lipstick all over your teeth and be sure to have your lipstick on hand for any midday (or night) touch-ups!
And…all of these tips are not just for lipstick, these tips are also good for lip gloss, lip liners and tinted lip balms and lip oils.
I hope you found this week’s last installment of Makeup 101: Lipsticks helpful and informative and I hope you have enjoyed reading my Makeup 101 series. I am currently working on a new series, Skincare 101 that will be coming soon and until Wednesday, be happy, healthy, and beautiful!
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