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How to make your lipstick last

Follow these tips for lips that last all day (or night) long!

Go for sheen

Many “long-wearing” lipsticks are matte and can dry out your lips. I prefer to use a satin-finish, pearlescent lipstick. Because the shine is created by pearl pigments and not by the texture, it’s not as moist as a creamy lipstick and will therefore stay on longer.

Be strong

Go for a bright or dark shade; they tend to last longer than soft ones because they have more pigment.

Prep your lips

Lipstick holds up best on a smooth surface, so gently buff your lips with a damp washcloth. Pat on a clear lip balm and give it a few minutes to sink in, then blot with a tissue.

Pencil it in

Lip pencil adds a layer of pigment and helps your colour last. Choose one that matches your lipstick—unless it’s very dark, in which case go one shade lighter. Lightly trace the pencil along the inside edge of your lips, then fill in your mouth and blot.

Swipe it on

Don’t use a brush—you’ll get richer colour if you apply your lipstick straight from the tube. Blot the first coat with a tissue, then add another layer.

Finish with powder

Women think powdering their lips will dry them out, but you don’t need much. Close your mouth, smile, and then dust a little face powder on your lips with a fluffy brush. Don’t reapply lipstick, or it could get ‘cakey’.

Looking for lipstick inspiration? Click through our celeb gallery to see how you can rock a red lip, too!

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