When you prep your lips before applying lipstick, every formula looks better. Lips have very thin skin and no oil glands, so they dry out quickly. Color clings to flakes, sinks into cracks and wears off unevenly. Two minutes of preparation gives lipstick a smooth, even surface.
The quick routine
- Soften. Apply a generous layer of lip balm while you do the rest of your makeup. Leave it for at least five minutes.
- Lift flakes gently, only if you have them. See the next section.
- Blot. Press a tissue on your lips to remove excess balm. Lipstick slides on a greasy surface.
- Even out, if needed. Pat a tiny amount of concealer or foundation over the lips to neutralize their natural color. This helps pale and bright shades to show true.
- Line and apply. See How to Apply Lip Liner for a Defined Look.
How to exfoliate lips safely
Only exfoliate when there are loose flakes, and never when lips are cracked, sore or bleeding.
- Damp cloth method: after a shower or after wearing balm for a few minutes, rub a soft, damp washcloth over your lips in small circles for a few seconds.
- Soft toothbrush method: use a clean, soft, damp toothbrush with very light pressure.
- Lip scrub: a fine sugar scrub, used gently once or twice a week at most.
Always follow with balm. Do not pick or bite at flakes. That tears the skin underneath and makes chapping worse.
Choosing a lip balm
| Look for | Why |
|---|---|
| Petrolatum, shea butter, beeswax, ceramides, castor seed oil | Seal in moisture and protect |
| Fragrance-free and flavor-free formulas | Less likely to irritate |
| SPF 30 or higher for daytime | Lips burn easily |
Dermatologists advise avoiding balms that sting or tingle. Ingredients such as menthol, camphor, eucalyptus and strong flavors can irritate lips and keep them dry.
Daily lip care that makes preparation easier
- Apply balm several times a day and before bed.
- Use a thicker ointment at night.
- Do not lick your lips. Saliva evaporates and leaves them drier.
- Drink water regularly, and use a humidifier in dry rooms.
- Protect lips from sun, wind and cold with an SPF balm or a scarf.
- Stop using any lip product that causes stinging or peeling.
If your lips are chapped
- Skip matte and long-wear liquid lipsticks until they heal. They are the most drying.
- Wear a tinted balm or a sheer, creamy lipstick. See Lipstick Finishes: Matte, Satin, Glossy, and Sheer.
- Do not scrub.
- See a doctor if chapping does not improve in two to three weeks, or if you have cracks at the corners of the mouth, swelling or a rash. Persistent problems can be caused by allergy, infection or other conditions.
Do you need a lip primer?
No. A primer can smooth the surface and help lipstick to last, but balm that has been blotted, plus liner, does a similar job. A primer is most useful if lipstick feathers into fine lines or fades quickly. See How to Reduce Lipstick Smudging and Transfer.
Timing with different lipsticks
| Lipstick type | Preparation tip |
|---|---|
| Matte bullet | Balm first, blot well |
| Liquid matte | Lips must be completely free of balm, or it will not set; prepare 15 minutes ahead |
| Satin or cream | A light layer of balm is fine |
| Gloss or tint | Smooth lips matter most, because shine shows texture |
| Red and other bold shades | Take extra care with flakes and edges. See How to Apply Red Lipstick Neatly |
At the end of the day
Remove lipstick gently and apply balm before bed. Long-wear formulas need an oil-based remover. See How to Remove Long-Lasting Lipstick.
Related on ArniSun
- Lipstick Finishes: Matte, Satin, Glossy, and Sheer
- How to Apply Lip Liner for a Defined Look
- How to Reduce Lipstick Smudging and Transfer
- How to Remove Long-Lasting Lipstick
- How to Apply Red Lipstick Neatly
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Should I put lip balm on before lipstick?
Yes, a few minutes before. Then blot off the excess so that the lipstick grips the lips instead of sliding on the balm.
How often should I exfoliate my lips?
Only when they are flaky, and no more than once or twice a week. Healthy, moisturized lips do not need regular scrubbing.
Why do my lips peel when I wear lipstick?
Drying formulas such as long-wear mattes are a common cause, as are fragrance and flavor ingredients. Try a creamier, fragrance-free lipstick and use balm underneath.