How To Apply Lip Gloss Perfectly – Step By Step Tutorial With Pictures

Start by prepping your lips. If you have dead skin cells or chapped/cracked lips, then scrub your lips before you start prepping. Massage the lip scrub all over your lips for about two to three minutes. Rinse it off. You can use a lip primer to create the perfect base for your lip color.

Quick Tip

For a DIY scrub, mix olive oil and sugar and use it to gently cleanse and exfoliate your lips. Do not exfoliate your lips more than twice a week.

Step 2: Make Your Lips Soft

The next step is to use a lip balm or lip oil or conditioner to get rid of the dryness. It will make your lips more soft and supple. Let the lip balm rest on the lips for about one to two minutes.

Step 3: Blot The Excess Lip Balm

Once you are done with applying the lip balm, take a tissue and blot the excess. This prevents the lipstick from bleeding and makes the application of the other products easier.

Step 4: Draw Line With Lip Pencil

Start by analyzing your lip shape. Using a lip pencil in the color of your choice, start the application from the center of the upper lip and follow the natural lip line till the corners of the lip. Follow the same procedure with the lower lip. You can also fill the entire lip with the same lip pencil as that works as a great base and helps the lip color to stay put for longer. Refer to the picture above.

Quick Tip

You can also apply a little bit of foundation/concealer in the shade that matches your natural lip color. This would even out the lips in one go and provide an even base to work on. Another easy trick is to use a lip brush to smudge the line inward inside the lip to soften the line. This also creates a base for the lipstick application.

Step 5: Apply Lipstick

Now it’s time for the lipstick. Apply the lipstick with a lip brush using short strokes and fill the entire lips. Using a brush while applying lipstick adds precision to the application. Here, I have used a bright red lipstick.

Step 6: Apply Lip Gloss

Start applying the lip gloss from the center of the lips and drag the sponge or lip gloss applicator along the length of the lips. Taking about the same, Delia Ahmed, a blogger shared her experience on making the lips look fuller and more beautiful. To achieve the same she used lip liner, and lipstick, and finally completed her look with a coat of lip gloss. She said, “I personally like to apply lip gloss since it kind of smooths all the layers of products together and creates one solid shape (i).”

However, avoid applying the gloss above the natural lip line. You can blot the excess lip gloss on a tissue paper. This will prevent the color from bleeding. Lastly, you can add a little bit of lip shimmer, lip tint, or lip stain to give a colorful, moisturized, and shiny finish.

Quick Tip

To make your lip gloss last longer, apply it on top of a base of setting powder. To do that, first line your lips, then apply setting powder on them before applying lip gloss. You can put some gloss on the center of your bottom lip and then rub your lips together to spread it evenly without getting excess product on your lips.

Final Look Of Lips After Applying Lip Gloss

We know how to apply lip gloss. But how does one properly remove it? Check out the next section to find out.

In This Article

How To Remove Lip Gloss

Removing lip gloss is a pretty simple process. Here’s how you do it:

1. Apply a thick layer of lip balm or natural oil such as coconut or olive oil over your lips. Let it sit for a minute to help break down the lip gloss.
2. Take a soft tissue or cotton pad and gently wipe your lips.
3. If the lip gloss is long-lasting or highly pigmented, use a makeup remover specifically designed for lip products.
4. After most of the gloss is removed, clean your lips with a mild, non-alcoholic soap and water.
5. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
6. Apply a lip balm or hydrating lip treatment to keep your lips moisturized, especially if you used makeup remover, which can be drying.

Infographic: A Simple Guide To Applying A Lip Gloss

Lip glosses are always popular and come in various colors and finishes, ranging from sheer and natural to bold and glossy. However, many of us can overdo the application. That is why finding the right balance is key to pulling off your look. Go through the infographic below for a simple guide to apply lip gloss correctly to achieve the right amount of glamor.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for lip gloss to dry?

It takes between a few seconds to a minute for lip gloss to dry.

Can you wear lip gloss without makeup?

Yes, lip gloss is the subtle and perfect way to add a pop of color and freshness to your no-makeup look.

Should I wear lip balm under lip gloss?

No, you should not wear a lip balm under the lip gloss. Still, if you wish to apply a lip balm, opt for a balm with SPF below the lip gloss so as to prevent tanning.

How many times should I apply lip gloss?

It is recommended to apply lip gloss 3 to 4 times a day to maintain softness and moisture.

What are the disadvantages of lip gloss?

There are generally no disadvantages of lip gloss. However, be mindful of what ingredients it is made of and its scent to keep allergic reactions at bay.

How do I choose the right color of lip gloss for my skin tone?

If you have a light skin tone, opt for pink, red, or other dark shades. For medium skin tones, cherry or mauve colors look beautiful. For dark skin tones, opt for deep pink or red colors.

Can lip gloss be used as a substitute for lip balm?

No. A lip balm is usually hydrating and moisturizing whereas a lip gloss adds shine and accentuates a look.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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