Completing your look with your favorite shade of red lipstick or lip gloss adds color and definition to your smile. One minute you’re feeling bold and confident with a smooth and solid red lip, then bam—it smudges after the first sip of your morning coffee. Fortunately, there are ways to make sure your product lasts all day. Here are some simple tips and tricks to make your lips stay put.

How to help your lipstick last

1. Start with a smooth surface

If you have dry, chapped lips with dead skin, you’re much more likely to have lipstick that bleeds, feathers, or flakes. Smoothing out the surface first provides the perfect foundation for lip products. Use a gentle exfoliant, like our Golden Wet Cherry Lip Scrub, to buff away the roughness, moisturize your skin, and leave your lips soft as silk and ready for some red.

2. Apply some lip balm

After smoothing out your pout, keep it moisturized to avoid parched lips later in the day. Apply a clear lip balm or lip oil and blot lightly with a tissue for maximum nourishment and hydration.

3. Prep your lips

Every makeup kit needs a reliable primer to set the stage for your lipstick and protect it with an invisible shield. The Ghost Veil Lip Primer is an excellent choice, with smooth gliding application, a sheer finish, and no creasing. With one quick swipe, you can say goodbye to fading and feathering.

4. Use lip liner all over

Next, you’ll want to fill in your lips completely with lip liner—no, really! This step gives you a starter layer of color that acts as a backup in case smudging does occur. Start by lining the outer edges of your lips for a clean, defined edge, then fill in the rest. The Velvetines Lip Liner will give you full coverage to keep red lips from getting out of line, with the perks of pointed precision and transfer-proof performance.

5. Blot, powder, layer

At last, your lips will be ready for some color! But it’s not just about smoothing on a final coat of lip gloss and calling it a day. There are a few mini-steps to get long-lasting red lips. Apply your lipstick, then carefully blot it. Be careful not to smudge! Next, pick up a flat brush and dab on a bit of loose powder. Tap the brush on the back of your hand to work the powder into the bristles and minimize fallout. With the brush lightly powdered, gently dab it onto your colored lips to set the first layer and grip the next one. Swipe on one last coat of lipstick, and you’re good to go. 

 

Not sure which product will best complement your lips? Try the Plushies Soft Liquid

Lipstick for a soft, natural look. Wet Cherry Lip Gloss will give you next-level shine without feeling heavy or sticky. Get a buttery-smooth matte finish with Soft Touch Lipstick, or try our signature Velvetines Liquid Lipstick for rich, full-coverage color and a touch-proof surface.

Perfect your pout and show it off! Join our community of red lip fans who can’t wait to see your style!