One of the simplest and best ways to feel brighter, sunnier and renewed for spring is with a bright lip color. Or, at least, that’s what it always feels like in the beginning, when you’re picking out a new shade of lipstick in your favorite beauty department. This will be lipstick that stays on my mouth and doesn’t make me look like a murderous clown by the time I get to work! And maybe it can be–we’ve got some suggestions that will help.
If you love makeup, you know that achieving your goal look is as much about prep as it is product or execution. That’s why people (read: me) get so into skincare–all of the fancy makeup in the world can’t make your skin look great if you’ve cared for it poorly.
Bliss Fabulips Sugar Lip Scrub
$18 via Macy’s
If you’ve ever tried to put on a matte lipstick on bare lips, you know what happens: you suddenly realize that you exfoliate every part of your body except your lips. This scrub is full of natural ingredients and nourishing oils to slough away the dead skin cells and leave you with a smooth surface to apply your lipstick.
MAC Lip Conditioner
$15 via Macy’s
This product can be worn either alone or under lipstick, and it’s so moisturizing that I’d recommend using it overnight–apply it when you do your moisturizer.
Make Up For Ever Aqua Lip Waterproof Lip Liner
$19 via Sephora
If you want your lipstick to look even and polished, you’re going to need to use a lip liner. This one stays put and comes in enough different shades that one is sure to be a close match for your favorite lipstick. For the most long-wearing use, color in your lips instead of just lining the edges.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil
$26 via Saks
These pencils might be my single favorite lip product. They’re the perfect base on which to layer lipstick for a really vivid, long-lasting color payoff, but they can also be worn on their own. I don’t know anyone in the fashion industry who doesn’t have at least a couple in her makeup bag.
Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Matte Lipcolor
$22.50 via Macy’s
And then, of course, there’s the lipcolor itself. Matte formulas provide the best color payoff, although they can be drying. This formulation earns high marks for being creamy and moist without a shiny finish.
Dr. Weil for Origins Conditioning Lip Balm
$16.50 via Macy’s
On the days you’re not wearing a bright lip, keep yourself hydrated. This balm will do the trick even for the most chapped lips.
