How To Choose The Right Lipstick
Choose Your Preferred Texture
With so many textures, shades and formulations, choosing the right lip products can be a minefield. The first thing to consider is your preferred texture. Are you someone that likes a cream finish over a matte? Do you want a lipstick that will last all day? Or are you just looking for a treatment-based formula to hydrate your lips? The answers to these questions will give you clues when it comes time to select your chosen formula.
Matte Lipstick
If you’re looking for a long-lasting formulation and intense colour pay off, go for a matte lipstick. They are my go-to for any special occasion and when you want to make a statement – just pair it with a lip liner for ultimate precision. My favourite formulation is the Pat McGrath Labs Mattetrance lipsticks, as they are richly pigmented and lightweight, and aren’t drying in the least.
Cream Lipstick
A cream lipstick is the perfect formula to just throw on for that effortless, everyday look. You don’t need to be as precise with them, either, as they tend to be less pigmented. If you’re new to lipstick and want to give it a go, this is a great place to start. The Mac Cosmetics Creamsheen lipsticks are ideal as they're creamy and balmy, but still provide great pigment.
High Shine Lipstick
Some of us are gloss girls at heart, but they aren’t the most grown up or practical formulas to go for (especially when you have to wear a mask). If you’re looking to upgrade from a gloss, investing in a high shine lipstick might be the way to do it. These formulas are super popular at the moment and tend to include super nourishing oils to protect and repair the lips. I love the L'Oreal Paris Color Riche Shine Lipstick for its oil-infused formula and hydrating feel.
Select Your Shade
Now that you've chosen your texture, it’s time to find your perfect shade. There are always a few options in my kit so my clients can choose a nude, bright or bold shade, and mix and match depending on the occasion or their mood.
Nudes
Your perfect nude shade should complement the natural colour of your lips and shouldn’t wash you out. They are a staple in every make-up bag and every woman should own one. The trick is to choose a colour one or two shades darker than your lip colour. My favourites are:
Bold Colours
A bright lipstick is all about having fun. Everyone should have at least one bright lip colour in their make-up bag. Think of a classic red, fuscia or even a coral. My top tip when wearing a bold lip is to keep the rest of your make-up paired back and natural, and let the lip do the talking. My top bright shades for all skin tones are:
Berry Tones
For autumn/winter, no look is complete without a rich, deep berry or plum lip colour. It’s the ultimate statement of glamour and looks super flattering on all skin tones. If you don’t feel confident in this colour, save it for the evening or try a sheer formula instead.
The most important thing is to enjoy the process when it comes to choosing lipstick. Use this season as an opportunity to edit, experiment and find what works for you. Also, look after your lips with a treatment, as the skin on your lips can be particularly dry and this doesn’t bode well for lipstick. My favourite is Alex Steinheherr's Sleep Spa Overnight Lip Mask, which you can find at Primark.
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