Buying a new lipstick is a bit like playing the lottery. You win some, and you lose some most of the time!
Every change of season, the latest shades are released and I will often race out to buy them.
I now have a overflowing graveyard of lipsticks that look gorgeous until I actually put them on.
More money wasted and the same safe shades keep getting worn over and over again.
Apart from buying cosmetics in the supermarket (which I often do, especially when they are half price) when you go instore there are samples to try, but I don’t know about you, there is no way I am putting that on my lips.
Who knows who or what has touched it!
Determined to reduce waste and find shades that work for me I have been doing a little research and have discovered some interesting tips that will help you avoid buying colours that just don’t work for you.
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COMPLIMENTARY COLOURS
Whilst many of us would love to be able to rock a bold red lip, it really is not for everyone.
For the most flattering shade, use your natural lip colour as a guide.
Choose a shade just slightly darker than your lips.
If you have pale lips a beige or pale pink is going to look best on you.
If you have medium lips try a deeper brown or a bright pink.
If your lips are quite dark lean towards a chocolate, rich plum or red.
MATTE OR GLOSS
Lipstick comes in different formulas that can have an impact on the final look.
The condition of your lips will play a major roll in how each formula will perform.
Matte lipstick is right on trend at the moment, and can look bold and beautiful. BUT if your lips are dry and flaky the colour will settle in each crack and line and they will look more obvious. These types of lipsticks contain very few emollients and could even make your lips feel more uncomfortable.
Gloss lipsticks are the perfect choice for dry lips and any product labelled as ‘moisturising’ will help your lips to feel softer and even a little plumper and will be much more comfortable to wear.
Long Lasting lipsticks will stay on for hours and will survive a glass of wine or three, but they work very similarly to matte products and will have a drying effect. Add a clear gloss on top and this will help your lips look and feel better.
Shimmer lipsticks have a glittery finish and light-reflecting properties and are probably best left to the young ones when they are heading out for night of glam and fun. On older ladies they can look old fashioned and aging.
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When you exfoliate your face (which of course you do every week…ahem), apply the product to your lips as well to get rid of dead skin cells.
Not only will your lips look smoother, it will also create a better base for your lip product and will increase its staying power.
What is your go-to lipstick?
Sharing for #IBOT with Essentially Jess
I’m lucky I have found the right colour for me and I have also found the perfect red which is fantastic for the very very occasional night out!
Red can be a tough one, yay for finding one that works for you. I still have not found one that I really love and does not look to harsh.
I tend to play it pretty safe with lipstick. Once I have one I use it almost exclusively till it’s done. Not very exciting I know, but it works for me.
I have done the same…..until the company discontinues the colour……grrr!
I struggle with lippy as I am lipless. My daughter has awesome lips and I am left with flat things so I need to go neutral.
Mine are pretty thin too!
Ooohhhh, I’d never thought of exfoliating my lips. I do love lipstick but this whole reapply thing really annoys me. So most days I don’t bother and save the lipstick for fancy occasions. I have learnt, however, to spend the money and get good lipstick.
Good quality can make a big difference, but I have got a few cheapies that have been my fav. I used to love a particular Avon one, but of course, they discontinued it. 🙁
I love Ulta3 Rose Bloom – it’s a matte but not drying, and costs a tiny $3.95! It’s not the only one I wear but it’s definitely my favourite 🙂
Love Ulta3 lippies, such good value, will go and check out Rose Bloom 🙂
I’m a shocker for exfoliating. Thanks for the reminder. I must get onto that asap! I bought a red lipstick not too long ago, but I must admit that I feel much more comfortable in my pale pinks 🙂
I am with you on the pale pinks, they look good on me too!