Yesterday, via Twitter, Erin asked for the best stay-put red lipstick. I’m a fan of MAC Russian Red, but as long as you’re using a lipstick (as opposed to a gloss) I think the application technique is more important than the product, when it comes to staying power. (Also, lipsticks specifically formulated to be long-lasting can be very drying…never a good thing.)
I apply my red lipstick straight from the tube for a strong look, and pat it on with my fingertip if what I want is something a bit more subtle and blurry (I suspect that’s what whichever Olsen is pictured above – or her makeup artist – did to get that look)…but regardless of how I apply my lipstick, I make sure it stays where I want it with the help of a little translucent powder (Coty Airspun Loose Powder is cheap, fantastic, and can be found in pretty much every drugstore in the world). Just separate the plys of a tissue and place one lightly across your lips, and then dust on a little powder before applying a second coat of color. I think I remember getting that tip from a Seventeen Magazine when I was first entering my sorta-goth-super-dark-lipstick-wearing phase (ages 14-17), and have used it ever since…and it really does work.
And also: I rarely use pencil, because I don’t like the look of it, but if you prefer a more precise line I’d recommend using a neutral pencil and using it both to line and to fill in your lips before applying red lipstick; that also helps it stay put.
If precision isn’t really your thing, you may want to try a stain; these are great for gorgeous, lasting, subtle color. I love Stila’s stains (Acai is beautiful), but CoverGirl OutLast Lip Stain in WildBerry Wink is both inexpensive and pretty (to see what it looks like on me, click here).
For my top beauty discoveries of 2010, click here!
Image via.
