Liquid lipstick is a go-to for many beauty fans but it can occasionally leave lips appearing dry and flaky. A makeup teacher has offered tips on how to apply it properly for a smoother finish
Many people find certain beauty products challenging to use, and now a make-up tutor has shared the optimal method for applying matte liquid lipstick. Plenty of beauty fans have an array of lip products to add a splash of colour to their lips, whether they prefer a subtle nude shade or something more daring.
Lipsticks can differ in finish and formula, including matte, satin and glossy or liquid lipsticks, lip crayons and lip oils. Make-up lovers appreciate using liquid lipsticks for their striking, full coverage colour and enduring formulas. They come in glossy, matte, satin and metallic formulas and one common problem with matte types is that they can leave the lips appearing dry and cracked depending on the application technique.
Trevor Barrett, a make-up teacher based in New York City, USA, has detailed how you can avoid this from happening.
He revealed some do’s and don’ts of matte liquid lipstick in a TikTok video to his 1.7 million followers.
The beauty guru stated: “If you’re applying liquid lipstick just straight in like this, in a few hours it’s gonna look like this – a bit too intense, dry and cracking and just uncomfortable.”
He then offered his advice on how to maximise the benefits of matte liquid lipstick, which you can find below.
1. Don’t over or under prep
He clarified that completely dry or chapped lips will only be accentuated by a liquid lipstick and will feel worse.
Excessive lip balm or lip oil applied just before using liquid lipstick will “only cause you problems” since the product won’t have enough time to set properly, resulting in smudging, Barrett explained.
He suggests applying a moisturising lip treatment but allowing at least 30 minutes for it to “absorb” before gently removing any residue prior to applying the lip colour.
2. Line the lips first
The make-up instructor cautioned: “Now don’t go straight in with your liquid lipstick. This can get very messy very fast.”
Instead, he advises lining the lips initially with either a matching shade to your lipstick or one that’s marginally darker.
In the clip, he traced a lip pencil around his entire lip contour and softened the inner edge with his finger to achieve a “lovely, gentle gradient” that creates “natural dimension” and helps prevent the lipstick from bleeding afterwards.
3. Make sure the lips are transfer proof
Following the lip lining, Barrett recommends checking that the lip liner will remain fixed and won’t budge.
He continued: “If a little bit still is, I recommend just blotting lips gently with a clean puff or a tiny bit of powder.”
4. Don’t start applying liquid lipstick from the lip edge
The beauty specialist’s next step involves applying the liquid lipstick beginning at the centre of the lips and moving outwards with a “less is more” philosophy.
He gently taps the lipstick with his finger to blend it into the lip liner, creating a “much more lightweight look and comfortable feel.”
Barrett pointed out that once it dries, you’ll be left with a smooth and long-lasting lip colour “that won’t go anywhere but that also doesn’t feel like a desert on your lips.”
He further suggested that you can apply lip gloss on top if you likr, recommending a clear one for some shine without colour transfer as the “gloss might come off but the colour will stay in place.”
The TikTok video has received several comments from users who found Barrett’s tips useful.
One user exclaimed: “Wait, why had no one taught me this? This is so HELPFUL.” Another chimed in: “Finally a good tutorial for a matte liquid lip.”
A third remarked: “The lesson all lipstick lovers needed but never received before now! Thank you, Trevor!”