A bold-coloured lipstick can glam up even the plainest face, saving you lots of time when it comes to make-up. All you need is a clear complexion, either achieved naturally through a lot of good luck and skincare, or with really awesome foundation and powder. Add a swipe of vibrant lip colour, and there, you have an effortless yet striking finish.
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It sounds simple in theory, but rocking a bold lip colour takes a bit of practice. Bright lipsticks, especially those with full coverage and matte texture, require precision and experience. A lip pencil of the same shade is recommended to give you a guideline of where the colour should go. A very vivid colour should be applied with a lip brush for a sophisticated look, but it can also be applied with your finger for the popular stained lips look as well.
Do not colour outside your natural line. If you have thin lips and want to make them look fuller, drawing over the lip line won't fix it. Instead, try a shiny gloss to make them look plump and juicy.
One tip is to store your lipstick in the fridge. Melting lipstick is harder to apply precisely, while a cooled lipstick gives just a hint of colour, making it easier for portion control.
Choosing the right colour is also very important. Most people choose colours based on their skin undertone, which is also important, but sometimes forget to consider the fact that some lip colours make their teeth appear more yellow than others. Blue-based colours tend to make your smile look whiter and brighter, while coral and fresh red can make your teeth look like you're a heavy smoker. If you really want to wear coral colour, coat it with a blue-based gloss to tone it down.
Coverage is also a factor to consider. If unsure of your application skills, go for something sheer and gradually build up the coverage, layer by layer. Remember that vibrant colours are only suitable for soft, moisturised lips, not chapped, flaky ones. Scrub your lips regularly either with a gentle exfoliating product or with your toothbrush. A lip balm should be applied at least twice a day, preferably after you've brushed your teeth, as toothpaste can be drying on the skin.
Shu Uemura Gloss Unlimited in AT30s— a clear blue with subtle undertone to add a translucent bluish tone with iridescent pink pearls.
Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Hot Raspberry gives translucent, longlasting colour.
Get sophisticated, sexy lips withMACLipstick in Feel My Pulse—vivid magenta violet, topped with Lipglass in Rhythm —vivid magenta violet with pearl.
Chanel Levres Scintillantes in 175 Savage Grace adds a rich red garnet nuance to the lips.
MINI REVIEW
Product: Reskin Solution Mist
Description: A refreshing mist to help with oil control, moisturisation and hydration during the day.
Comment: Compared to other facial mists, Reskin Solution Mist sprays more gently and in finer particles, so it doesn't soak the face or leave drops of water on your skin. The scent is refreshing, although what it also means is that there is added fragrance, so make sure you close your eyes when spraying. The skin feels soft and moisturised instantly - a perfect companion on a hot and sunny day to give you a fresh feeling.
The perfect 10
Bys Cosmetics introduces new dazzling colours for your eyes. Bys 10 Palette Eyeshadow is highly pigmented, delivering an intense, rich colour that stays on the skin longer. Each palette features 10 colours to create the right shade for any occasion, from a casual day in the park to a glamorous party. The palette is available in three tones - Denim in Distress, Guilty Pleasures and Glam Rock.
