Matte lipsticks do it all. They are versatile, sophisticated, and long-lasting—a staple for any makeup lover’s vanity. In contrast to shiny, satin finishes, matte lipsticks manage to give you a deeper colour payoff with a flat, non-glossy finish.
However, they can be tricky to wear and apply, especially if your lips are prone to dryness or flaking. So, if you love a matte lip but are struggling to stay comfortable in it, here’s everything you need to know—from formulas, application, to making your matte lipstick last all day.
How to Choose the Right Matte Lipstick
- Hydrating Ingredients: Matte lipsticks are heavily pigmented and have a tendency to dry your lips. So always buy your shades from trusted brands that offer lipsticks infused with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter. These ingredients keep your lips soft and supple while letting you enjoy a bold matte look.
- Long-Wearing vs. Creamy: Choosing your formula is crucial for lipsticks as well. If you want to get a very long-lasting and precise finish, use a liquid matte lipstick. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lighter feel, go for creamy matte lipstick bullets or crayons.
- Smudge-Proof & Transfer-Resistant: A good matte lipstick must stay intact without fading or smudging. Look for lipsticks that offer waterproof or smudge-proof formulas, especially for wearing them throughout the day. This will keep your coffee mugs and shirt collars free from any stains.
- Suited for Your Complexion: Like all your other makeup products, matte lipsticks will only look fabulous if they suit your skin tone and undertone. So, analyse your tone and style thoroughly and find a shade that uniquely suits you. Here are a few common shades for each skin tone –
- Fair skin: Dainty pinks, nudes, and mauves
- Medium skin: Warm terracotta, peachy nudes, and berry shades
- Deep skin: Deep reds, purple shades, and deep browns
How to Apply Matte Lipstick Properly
You may need to prep your lips to create a smooth texture for matte lipsticks. Follow these steps to ace the look –
Step 1: Exfoliate & Moisturise
Matte lipsticks tend to highlight dry, flaky lips. So, if you naturally have a dry pout, start with a lip scrub to remove any flakes. You can also use finely grained sugar as your DIY scrub. Now go on to apply a light lip balm to keep lips hydrated.
Step 2: Line your Lips
A lip liner keeps your lipstick from feathering while accentuating your lip line. It also helps you overline your pout, making it look fuller. Go on to outline and fill your lips lightly with a liner that is one shade darker than your matte lipstick.
Step 3: Thin Layers of Application
Don’t apply a clumpy coat. Go for a thin, uniform layer and build it up if necessary. This improves your lipstick’s longevity and prevents any creases.
Step 4: Blot & Set
Allow your matte lipstick to dry and lightly blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excessive pigments.
How to Make Matte Lipstick Last All Day
Once you’ve perfected your application, these tips will keep your matte lipstick in place for hours:
- Set It Away: Lightly dust a small amount of loose setting powder over your lips to absorb excess moisture and lock in the colour.
- Avoid Too Much Lip Balm: It’s great to keep your lips hydrated, but using too much of lip balm can make your matte lipstick lose its firmness and counter its lasting formula.
- Use a Makeup Setting Spray: If your lipstick is smudging, set it with a long-lasting setting spray so that it won’t smear away.
- Carry a Touch-Up Pencil: Instead of reapplying a tricky liquid matte lipstick throughout the day, carry a matching matte crayon to do the job.
Final Thoughts
Makeup is never too hard if you’re using the right products and techniques. The same stands true for your favourite matte lipstick. Save this guide and open up a world of stunning, showstopping looks with the perfect application.