Whether it comes in a tube or a stick, with a matte, glossy or metallic finish, there’s never been a wider range of lipsticks to choose from. When it comes to your lips, the only limit is your imagination! Here are some options and their unique features.
Glossy finish
When we talk about lipstick, glossy is the first type that springs to mind. This classic formula has stood the test of time and is still worn by many women today. Thanks to new technologies, its light-reflecting pigments are more concentrated than ever. And while its creamy texture and opaque finish don’t offer as much structure as a matte finish, it is much easier to apply.
Tip for flawless application:
To create dimension, start by outlining the contour of your lips with a lip liner that’s a half-tone lighter. Next, apply your glossy lipstick. This look is perfect if you want to add depth to your lips.
Matte finish
Its big comeback shocked the beauty world, but matte lipstick has managed to win over the most sceptical among us. Matte lips always stand out with their intense colour and velvety finish, without the shine of glossy lipstick. Since matte formulas tend to dry out your lips, opt for tubes that contain moisturizing ingredients, such as vitamin E and shea butter.
Tip for flawless application:
Matte lipstick gives the lips superb structure, but any mistakes can be difficult to correct. To make applying it easier, gently exfoliate the lips first to smoothen the surface and maximize the lipstick’s hold.
Metallic finish
In some ways, metallic lipstick is a mix of both matte and glossy finishes. It’s long-lasting and bold like a matte lipstick, but with the shine and depth of a glossy finish. Above all, it is nothing like its predecessor from the 90s: its light-reflecting pigments have been refined to create an effect that’s more fluid and less frosted. What’s more, it’s available in a wide array of easy-to-wear colours.
Tip for flawless application:
To master this flamboyant look, apply a coat of matte lipstick, followed by your metallic lipstick in the same shade, focusing on the centre of the lips. This way, you’ll get rich lips with an extravagant touch.
Gel
Rather than locking the pigments in wax like traditional lipstick, gel formulas use a translucent base. The result is a lighter texture, which easily glides onto the lips and provides more intense colour. The gel’s translucent base also allows for better pigment saturation. That’s why the colour on your lips is so faithful to the colour on the tube. Since gel provides superior shine compared to wax-based products, this type of lipstick isn’t available in matte finishes.
Tip for flawless application:
As the colour transfers so easily to your lips, apply a little at a time to control the intensity.
Powder
Powders offer remarkable hold, a mattifying effect and a lightweight texture, but they are more difficult to apply. The solution? Trap the molecules in a creamy formula that is easy to apply to the lips and has an ultra-light finish. This combination is often enriched with moisturizers, such as vitamin E, allowing you to enjoy a matte finish without the feeling of dryness that sometimes accompanies powders.
Tinted balm
One thing’s for certain: every woman should have at least one tinted balm! It’s a sort of double agent that adapts to every situation. Formulated with moisturizing ingredients, tinted balms treat chapped lips that are damaged by the cold or dried out from the sun. And with translucent shades that suit all complexions, they subtly improve the natural colour of your lips. They are also by far the easiest to apply, which makes them a powerful ally for express makeup.
Tip for flawless application:
Apply the balm as needed, but also a few minutes before traditional lipstick for maximum hydration.
Here are some tips to help your favourite lipstick last longer:
- Start by applying a makeup primer to your lips; it will fill in fine lines and cover rough areas to create an optimal surface that improves adhesion.
- Line the outside contour of your lips with a lip liner in a shade that matches your complexion; this step creates a waterproof barrier that will stop your lipstick from running.
- Using your fingers, apply a translucent powder to set your lipstick and seal in the colour.
Tinted balm
One thing’s for certain: every woman should have at least one tinted balm! It’s a sort of double agent that adapts to every situation. Formulated with moisturizing ingredients, tinted balms treat chapped lips that are damaged by the cold or dried out from the sun. And with translucent shades that suit all complexions, they subtly improve the natural colour of your lips. They are also by far the easiest to apply, which makes them a powerful ally for express makeup.
Tip for flawless application:
Apply the balm as needed, but also a few minutes before traditional lipstick for maximum hydration.