As a makeup artist, one of the most common questions I get is, “How do I make my lip gloss look flawless and last longer without getting sticky or uneven?” The truth is, your lip gloss look depends less on the gloss itself and more on the prep and precision before you even apply that first swipe. Whether you're heading to a shoot, event, or just want that everyday glow, these four expert steps will help you achieve healthy, shiny, and nourished lips that last all day long.
Step 1: Smooth the Canvas with Gentle Exfoliation
Before anything touches your lips, you need to exfoliate. This step removes any dry patches and chapped skin that can mess with your gloss application. I recommend using a scrub or lip exfoliator and working it in gently to clear away the outer layer of skin. You'll create a smooth surface that allows your gloss and other products to go on evenly. Just a pro tip — don’t do this more than twice a week, as overexfoliation can irritate your lips and cause more harm than good.
Step 2: Lock in Moisture Before You Gloss
Right after exfoliating, always moisturize. A hydrating, clear balm is perfect to prep your lips so your gloss can stay put. If you’ve applied too much, blot the excess with a tissue before moving forward. Moisturized lips not only feel better, they look better. This step is crucial in achieving that luminous, plump effect we all love in editorial or glam makeup looks.
Step 3: Define the Shape for a Fuller Look
Creating the perfect shape is where the magic happens. Use a lip pencil that matches your natural color or is slightly lighter than the gloss you’ll be applying. Begin by outlining the middle of your upper lip, then draw towards the corners. Repeat the same for the bottom. You can follow your natural contours or slightly draw outside for a fuller pout. This technique helps your gloss stay neatly in place and prevents an obvious outline, especially under camera lights.
Step 4: Apply and Perfect the Gloss Finish
Time to apply! Use a brush or the application tool that comes with your gloss to control the amount and placement. Start at the center and spread evenly toward the edges. Want that editorial-level sharpness? Dab a touch of concealer, one shade lighter than your tone, just outside the lip line. It creates a barrier that keeps the gloss from smudging onto your face and enhances that crisp, clean look you see on runways.
For those asking what I keep in my kit, when I want shine, moisture, nourishment, and the ability to layer over any shade, I reach for Perfect Pout. It's transparent, smooth, never sticky, and delivers that luscious, high-gloss finish every client asks for.
