How to apply matte lipstick for a flawless, long lasting look!

Lately, everywhere you turn, a matte lipstick is staring you in the face. From Guerlain’s Rouge G Luxurious Velvet to Charlotte Tilbury’s Matte Revolution and NARS Powermatte, the present (and future) is velvety and highly pigmented. 

But fear not, today’s matte formulas bear no resemblance to the chalky, dry lips of the 1990s. This time ’round, matte lipsticks are flattering and don’t dry out the lips. 

The difference? While older formulas were based on thick, cloudy waxes, modern matte lipsticks use clear, featherlight waxes that mix well with hydrating ingredients like mango butter and hyaluronic acid. 

Result? Win-win all around! 

And while they might not be as easy to apply as a slick of sheer gloss, matte lipsticks last longer, suit all skin tones, and look super-gorgeous. This look is for girls who are all grown up! 

How to apply matte lipstick — like a pro!

Matte lipsticks pack a punch with rich pigment, offering a striking color payoff from the first swipe. They boast impressive staying power, surviving countless cups of coffee and Champagne toasts, and are more smudge-proof and transfer-resistant.

However, their less creamy texture can make smooth application tricky, demanding precision to stay within the lip lines.

Plus, they’re quite the perfectionists, highlighting even the tiniest of dry patches, cracks, and fine lines.

And when adding more color or touching up, remember moderation is key. Too much, and you might end up with a cakey pout.

However, don’t let these little quirks scare you away! When you get matte lipstick right, it’s nothing short of show-stopping. 

And how to get it right? We’ve got insider tips straight from the professionals at Milan Fashion Week on how to apply matte lipstick.

They’ve shared all the secrets to make it as easy and stunning as a catwalk strut. So, let’s dive in!

Prepping your lips

Before you even think about reaching for your lipstick, it’s crucial to prepare your lips. While a creamy or glossy lipstick can glide over dry patches, a matte lip doesn’t let you hide anything. 

For a smooth canvas, begin by gently exfoliating your lips using a lip scrub (we love the Fresh Sugar Lip Polish) or a soft toothbrush. This removes any dead skin and provides a smooth surface for your lipstick.

Next, hydrate your lips — but skip the lip balm as it adds sheen, which can dilute the matte effect. Instead, opt for a lip primer, like MAC Prep + Prime, which smoothens the lips, fills in fine lines, and prevents the lipstick from bleeding or feathering. 

If you don’t have a lip primer, a thin layer of foundation or concealer can serve as an alternative; apply lightly and blend it well over the lips. This will also neutralize your natural lip color and help the lipstick appear more vibrant and true to its shade!

Picking the right shade to nail the matte look

The key to pulling off matte lip color is to ensure it’s impactful. A neutral shade or one close to your skin tone can make you look sickly pale.

Instead, opt for an intense pop of tangerine, red, or magenta — especially since, like matte lipstick itself, they’re entirely on-trend.

Precision is key

There is no room for sloppy application with a matte finish lipstick — it demands precise application. The answer? A matching lip pencil to define your lips and prevent bleeding.

Start by outlining your natural lip line. You can slightly overline your lips for added fullness, but be careful not to go overboard.

Even better, fill in your lips with the liner and then apply the lipstick on top. This will help the lipstick stay on longer!

The main attraction: Applying the matte lipstick

Now, it’s time for the star of the show — the matte lipstick itself! Start at the center of your upper lip, follow your cupid’s bow, and work to the outer corners and bottom lip. Fill in the rest of your lips, ensuring even coverage.

For precision, use a lipstick brush, especially around the edges and corner of your mouth — it will provide more control over the application and help spread the lipstick evenly. If using a liquid matte lipstick, apply in thin layers to avoid clumping.

Want to keep it soft and subtle?

For a softer look, fill your entire lip with liner, then pat lipstick on using your fingertip. This is especially useful when you are in a rush or don’t want to look like you have put in too much effort!

Layer strategically!

Since matte lipsticks are highly pigmented, it’s important to apply them in thin layers. It will help avoids uneven patches, which are more noticeable with matte textures, and ensures a long-lasting, comfortable, and non-cakey finish.

Thick layers and too much product, on the other hand, can lead to a cakey appearance and increase the likelihood of the lipstick flaking off or fading unevenly, requiring more frequent touch-ups. 

And remember to gently blot your lips with a piece of tissue after each layer — this removes excess oil and product, preventing the lipstick from smudging or feeling heavy. It also gives your lipstick more staying power!

Mastery is in the details: Perfecting your pout

If you notice small smudges or overdrawn lines, use a small brush dipped in concealer to clean up around the edges. This allows for precise corrections, especially around the edges of your lips, ensuring a crisp, sharp outline. 

And if lipstick strays beyond the lip line, redefining it with a lip liner that matches your lipstick can help correct the shape. 

Do. Not. Re-apply.

While it may be tempting to re-apply your lipstick after a long afternoon, resist! Since matte layers only sit on top of each other, you’ll get an uneven look. Instead, wipe off the existing lipstick and then apply a fresh coat.

Finally, how to remove matte lipstick

Removing matte lipstick properly is as important as the application itself. Use an oil-based makeup remover, micellar water, or coconut oil to break down the lipstick, then gently wipe it off with a cotton pad. Follow with a lip balm to rehydrate your lips.

Pro tip: How to make any lipstick matte

Rather than buying a new lipstick, you can simply matte your current stock with translucent powder. And it’s super-easy: Blot your lips with a tissue after applying the lipstick. Then, use your fingertips to dab a translucent face powder on your lips to eliminate the shine.

The 9 best matte lipsticks

Looking for the best in matte lips? These top 9 matte lipsticks will never fail you!

Guerlain Rouge G Refillable Lipstick in Matte: Highly pigmented, long lasting and infused with nourishing mango butter plus hydrating hyaluronic acid spheres, this is my favorite. Each of the 15 shades can be customised with their own luxury case (sold separately) for an added touch of Parisian chic. My favorite, must-have combo? Mauve Plum combined with the Tweed case… ooh là là! 

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick: A matte formula with 3D glow pigments that help lips appear fuller and orchid extract to protect and nourish your pout. Added bonus: The unique square-angled tip mimics the shape of a lip brush for precise application every time. Must buy shade: The iconic Pillow Talk.

Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipstick: If you love the matte look but struggle with dryness, these Power Bullets are great for you. Reason? A silky smooth formula that stays on all day long without smudging.

NARS Powermatte High-Intensity Long-Lasting Lip Pencil: This cult-favorite delivers all the impact of a matte lipstick with the convenience of a pencil. Plus, the power pigment packed formula lasts for 12 hours while feeling featherweight on the lips.

Yves Saint Laurent The Slim Velvet Radical Matte Lipstick: A comfortable and intensely pigmented square-bullet lipstick that delivers intense color with an innovative shape for precise application. It’s full coverage, bleed-resistant and infused with silky oils for creamy comfort.

Gucci Velvet Matte Lipstick: A formula rich with pure pigments for intense, vivid color in one stroke. Hues range from nudes to oranges and pinks, reds, purples and a super unique majestic green that’s sure to be a showstopper if you dare to take the risk! (And that fluted vintage gold case is to die for!).

Rouge Hermès Matte Lipstick: If those gorgeous, refillable cases don’t take your breath away, the powdery, lightweight formula definitely will seal the deal! Each of the 14 shades is comfortable, moisturizing and delivers long-lasting color with a super-high concentration of intense pigments. 

MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick: Offers a luxurious feel with easy application and moisturizing effect. It’s known for its rich pigmentation and minimal transfer.

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink: Long-lasting wear suitable for mask usage, featuring a unique arrow applicator for easy application and a comfortable, non-drying formula.