How to Make Lips Look Perfect Before Lipstick Application

Prep lips for perfect lipstick application.

Lipstick can make a woman feel instantly glamorous, whether going for the classic red lip a la Marilyn Monroe and Gwen Stefani, or the nude lipstick look paired with smoky eyes. Prep lips for lipstick application through careful exfoliation and hydration as well as giving lips a dose of foundation to make lipstick stick. The right preparation will keep lips looking healthy and help the lipstick remain on your lips throughout the day.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Wash cloth
• Lip scrub
• Lip balm
• Foundation
• Lip liner

Instructions

1. Exfoliate the lips prior to makeup application by gently going over them with a wet, clean toothbrush. Another option is to gently rub them with a wash cloth, or use a lip scrub.

2. Go over lips with lip balm to keep lips hydrated. Dry lips look unattractive whether they feature lipstick or not.

3. Apply foundation to lips as a base for your lipstick. As with eye shadows, lipstick will cling to lips more if it has a base to stick to rather than naked skin.

4. Use a lip liner to define the lips, then fill in lips with lipstick using a lip brush. A lip brush allows you to have more control over the application of the product. Blot lips with a tissue, then apply a second coating of lipstick.

Tips & Warnings

• Use natural lip balms that contain beeswax when not wearing lipstick to keep lips conditioned.

• Use clear gloss in the center of lips to make them appear fuller.

References

• Complete Well Being: Great Looking Lips; Shelia Dicks; August 2007