Applying lipstick is a skill that can significantly improve your overall look, making you feel more polished and confident. Whether you like bright reds, soft nudes or lively pinks, learning how to apply lipstick correctly is important.
Let’s look at how to apply lipstick like a pro whether you use lip liner or not, on dark lips, and on small lips.
Get Your Lips Ready
Before you put on lipstick, it is important to prepare your lips. Start by gently scrubbing your lips with a lip scrub to get rid of dead skin. After that apply a moisturizing lip balm to help the lipstick go on smoothly. Let the balm soak in for a few minutes then lightly blot off any extra with a tissue. Well-prepped lips create the best base for applying lipstick.
How To Apply Lipstick With A Lip Liner
Lip liner is a wonderful way to help define your lips and keep lipstick from feathering. Here are the steps on how to apply lipstick with a lip liner.

1. Pick A Suitable Lip Liner
Choose a lip liner that is a match to your lipstick or just slightly darker.
2. Line Your Lips
Start by tracing your natural lip line with the liner. Begin with the center of the upper lip and extend out towards the corners.
3. Fill In Lips
To ensure longer-lasting lips, fill in all of your lips with the lip liner, thus providing a good base for your lip color.
4. Apply Lipstick
Use a lip brush for precise application or apply directly from the bullet. Start at the central area and blend outwards.
5. Perfect The Edges
Use a concealer brush to clean up any mistakes made, thus providing a perfect finish.
How To Apply Lipstick Without Lip Liner
If you don’t have lip liner, you can still create a clean and bright look. Here’s how.

1. Prep and Prime
Exfoliate and moisturize your lips, then apply a thin layer of foundation or concealer as a base.
2. Apply Lipstick
Begin at the center of your lips and glide outward. Use the tip of the lipstick for accurate application along the edges.
3. Blot and Reapply
After the first layer, blot with a tissue and then apply another layer for a deeper color.
4. Highlight
Add a little highlighter on your Cupid’s bow for extra shine.
How to Apply Lipstick on Dark Lips
Dark lips might need a few extra steps to make the lipstick color stand out nicely. Here are some tips.

1. Neutralize Lip Color
Apply a thin layer of foundation or concealer to even out the natural color of your lips.
2. Choose Pigmented Lipsticks
Look for lipsticks that are highly pigmented and offer full coverage, like matte or satin finishes.
3. Layering
Apply one layer of lipstick, blot with a tissue and then apply again. This helps to make the color stronger.
Additionally, you can also read: Birthday Makeup: Ideas, Looks, And Tutorial
4. Gloss for Dimension
Add a bit of gloss to the center of your lips for a fuller and shiny look.
How to Apply Lipstick On Small Lips
You can make small lips look fuller and more defined using the right methods.

1. Overline Strategically
Use a lip liner to slightly go outside your natural lip line, paying special attention to the Cupid’s bow and the center of your bottom lip.
2. Select Lighter Colors
Light and shiny lip colors can make your lips look fuller. Stay away from dark shades because they can make your lips seem smaller.
3. Emphasize the Cupid’s Bow
Put a little highlighter above your Cupid’s bow to improve the shape of your lips.
Additionally, you can also read: 10-Minute Quick Makeup Tutorial For Beginners
4. Use Gloss or an Ombre Style
Adding a clear or light gloss to the center of your lips can create a plumper appearance. You can also try an ombré style, using a darker color on the outer edges and a lighter color in the middle.
Helpful Tip
“Give a woman the right lipstick and she can conquer the world.”
Charlotte Tilbury
Feeling confident starts with using your favorite lipstick, so don’t hesitate to try new looks.
Illustration: How To Apply Lipstick Properly

FAQs
1. Can I skip lip balm before putting on lipstick?
It is best not to skip lip balm because it keeps your lips moist and helps your lipstick look smooth.
2. What type of lipstick is best for dark lips?
Richly pigmented matte or satin lipsticks work well for dark lips since they offer full coverage and bright color.
3. How can I make my lipstick stay on longer?
To make your lipstick last, exfoliate and prepare your lips, use lip liner, apply lipstick in layers, and finish with a setting spray or translucent powder.
Final Thoughts
Getting good at how to apply lipstick correctly takes practice and experimentation. Whether you are aiming for a bold statement or a more natural look, these tips will guide you on how to apply lipstick perfectly for beginners and help you master the art of flawless lipstick application. Enjoy experimenting.
Author Bio
An avid beauty enthusiast and experienced writer, Jennifer shares expert tips and trends to help readers enhance their beauty routines. With a passion for cruelty free and sustainable products, Jennifer dives deep into the latest in makeup and skincare. From tutorials to product recommendations, Jennifer’s content aims to empower every reader to embrace their unique beauty.