The Lip Formula Guide That’ll Save You from Buying Another “Meh” Lip Product
Main image – Tanyadanilevich/Stocksy
Ever get confused about which lip formula to go for? You want hydrated lips. But you also want a strong pigment, whilst also not wanting it to be too strong. But you also want that strong (but not so strong) pigment to last. But you don’t want it to stay on forever. And now you need a big lie down.
Let’s quash the confusion once and for all and go through all the different lip formulas before you combust. Because knowing what each one does and what they actually are might help you to figure out which one is right for you.
With expert tips from makeup artist Pilar DeMann and makeup expert Andrew Grella, here is your definitive guide to lip formulas, once and for all. Just call it lip service!
Lip gloss
“Lip gloss is formulated with less pigment and can be stickier [than a lipstick, balm or oil], similar to an oil but depending on the brand the feel can be different,” DeMann says. “I love gloss because it is sheer, and it gives users the chance to try bolder colours without feeling overwhelmed.”
Image – Magdalenam/Stocksy
“Adding some glamour to your look is what lip gloss does best,” says Grella. “You can either wear it alone or over lipstick for more shine on your lips. It’s perfect for anyone looking to have fuller and juicier lips.”
Although lip glosses typically come with a doe foot applicator, my personal favourites of mine come in a pot and you can use either your finger or lip brush to apply from.
Lip balm
The Queen of the lip hydrators! A balm usually contains bees wax or shea butter to provide consistent moisture. It’s the perfect companion wherever you are. “I have one in my purse, my car and my desk,” says DeMann.
You can get tinted balms too. “These are my go-to for easy everyday colour but avoid anything with menthol or mint as this will dehydrate,” she adds.
Lip oil
DeMann says lip oils are growing in popularity. “There are so many on the market, lip oil now a trend, like a gloss,” she explains.
Personally, I love how lip oils are a mix between a stain/tint and a balm. They have the hydration of a balm but the staying power of a stain/tint. “This offers a glossy sheen minus any tackiness observed in typical glosses,” says Grella. “It is suitable for people with dry lips or those preferring a natural shiny look with moisturizing effects.”
Lip stain
“Lip stain is basically what it says, a product that leaves behind a stain on the lips that is long lasting,” DeMann explains. “Benefit Cosmetics has a lip stain that they are known for. It’s lovely and a colour that works for everyone.”
“Stains are most appropriate for individuals who prefer natural looks and do not want to keep applying it every time they eat or drink something, as it gives a matte finish and suits anyone who likes a low-maintenance, long-lasting lip colour,” adds Grella.
Lip stains can be a little drying so layer up a clear lip balm over the top if you want a bit of extra hydration.
Lip tint
“Lip tint is featherlight, which provides a natural finish with a hint of colour.” Grella explains. “The sheer nature of this lip stain makes it less strong than the other types.
People who prefer an everyday subtle shade should consider purchasing these items that contain lip tints in them. These can be used to achieve a “no make-up” look.”
Lipstick
“Lipstick contains more wax and more pigment, so you get fuller coverage,” explains DeMann. This is the most common form of lip product to help bring out your natural lip shape and to add a pop of colour to your finished makeup look.
You can get all sorts of finishes and formulas with lipsticks but the most popular ones are matte and creamy, depending on your preference. My favourite formulas have a slightly pearlescent finish, makes it easier to go for a bolder colour and is easy to build up too.
Lip liner
A lip liner essentially does exactly how it sounds – a pencil that lines the lips to accentuate your natural lip shape. “I love to use a crayon that matches the vermillion line of the lip and just over lining slightly to give the lips a fuller appearance,” DeMann explains.
“I use liner when using a bolder lipstick to anchor the colour. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk is the best.” I couldn’t agree more – it’s a creamy, mainly universal shade and I use it daily!
The takeaway
As long as you know the finish you want to achieve, it should be pretty easy to find the lip formulation that’s right for you. Choose a balm if you specifically need hydration and a tinted balm for that extra pop of hydrated colour.
A lipstick will give you better coverage, while a stain will give similar coverage only it will feel slightly drier on the lips. You can be a little braver with a sheerer gloss when it comes to shades, a lip oil will give you the best of both worlds when it comes to longevity and hydration and tint is best for a ‘no makeup’ finish.
And a lip liner? That’ll round off your lip look perfectly, whatever your formulation choice, by accentuating your overall lip shape.
Meet the experts
Andrew Grella is the CEO and founder of Formen Makeup.
Pilar DeMann is a makeup artist who share her expertise with the rest, real world people of all ages. Deemed “the Eyebrow Queen of Litchfield”, Pilar knows that if the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the eyebrows are the frame. It was this notion that lead Pilar to conceive a simple routine anchored in brows done right, for her clients.
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