Putting on lipstick is one of the most important parts of a makeup routine. Today, there is a wider range of options than ever before. The plethora of options can confuse one or simply lead to too many right choices. Either way, there is a right way to put lipstick on and other not-so-right ways. The former can make one’s lipstick last longer, while the latter can make one’s lips look splotchy and badly filled in.

1. Skipping exfoliation
For the lipstick to look perfect without any dry patches or cracks, it is imperative to exfoliate. Sloughing off the dry patches on the lips before putting on lipstick can make a lot of difference. People often make the mistake of putting lipstick on chapped and cracked lips. This can end up enhancing one’s imperfections. In addition, putting lipstick on dry lips can cause constant creasing and flaking throughout the day. People who want to achieve a smooth sheen and even pigmentation must prepare their pout with some exfoliation.

2. Failing to line the lips
Not lining the lips is another mistake lipstick wearers need to stop making. The bleeding and feathering of the lipstick pigment do not look good. To avoid this issue, use lip liners before putting the lipstick on. It gives the lip shade something it can adhere to and prevent bleeding. However, using a sharp pencil can leave one with overly sharp lines. Make sure to blunt the tip a bit before using it on the lips. The rounded tip of the liner will be better and easier at giving the lines natural definition. Choose a shade darker than the natural color of the lips for the lining. It can instantly make the lips look fuller and healthier. However, avoid going too dark and making the lip lining too obvious.

3. Overlining the lips
There is one thing that people can do that is worse than forgetting the lip liner: overdo it. People often think that overlining their lips can give them a feeling of fuller and plumper lips. While it might be true, some simply forget to draw the line. Not literally. To a certain extent, overlined lips can make one look more like a cartoon character than a put-together person. For those who prefer overlining them, blur out the natural lines of the lips with concealer beforehand. Blend it out well, and then proceed with the overlining. However, ensure that the newly drawn lip line is only slightly outside and above the natural lines. Trying out hacks like dotting some highlighter at the center of the lower lip can make them look plumper and fuller.

4. Wearing the wrong shade
There are innumerable lipstick shades available for one to choose from. The abundance alone can be confusing and overwhelming. Not every shade of lip color can work well with different skin tones. Lipsticks, like foundations, also have undertones. One should consider this when purchasing lipsticks to ensure they do not look ashen or ill after putting them on. In addition, if the lipstick shade isn’t right, it can ruin the whole outfit and make it look off-putting. Make sure to take some time when considering the new lip shades. If confused, seek help from the beauticians and professionals standing behind the counter; their knowledge about colors might just be the thing that saves countless outfits and looks. Asking for help is better than looking like a vampire contestant or an ailing person.

5. Not finishing properly
It is not enough to put on an even and smooth layer of lipstick. How one decides to finish off the application is just as important. Think of it as the step to make the lipstick stand out as imagined. It is also a step to ensure the lipstick lasts longer, stays the same, and does not turn patchy. When wanting to ensure the longevity of the lip color, go old-school. Trust the holding power of some loose powder and dust it onto the lips after putting on some lipstick.

6. Adding too much gloss
One can hardly ever go wrong with lip gloss. Or at least that is what the belief was. Sadly, yes, people do make mistakes. For example, go overboard with the gloss. Some prefer lip gloss over lip color, as it accentuates and makes the lips appear fuller. But that reason is not a free pass for overusing the gloss. Adding too many coats can make the lips look unappealing and sticky. Always remember that with lip gloss, a light application does the deed. And if layering the lipstick with gloss, make sure to check the formulations beforehand. Too often, the layer can become a sticky mess rather than an eye-catching lip finisher.

7. Using drying formulas
With all the rage surrounding matte lip shades, things can get tricky. How a lip shade looks depends not just on the condition of the lips but also on how the product is formulated. Most matte lip colors tend to have an unforgiving and drying formula. It can easily make the lips appear dryer than they are. In these cases, it is best to hydrate the lips before putting the shade on. Alternatively, look for matte shades with a high percentage of moisturizing butter, oils, or waxes.

8. Layering on the balm
Using lip balm before the lipstick is a great idea, but not so much if the lipstick goes on right after. Doing so can leave one with a weird, gloopy mess of lipstick and lip balm. Instead, give the blam time to stay on the lips and do its job. Once it’s dry and the moisture is locked in, proceed with the lipstick. If there is not enough time, blot out the remaining balm that hasn’t had time to dry completely. It will ensure the lips are not coated in a weird, uneven combination of lipstick and balm.