Lipstick Finishes & Types: ULTA's Complete Lip Glossary
Hey makeup lovers! Want to decode the world of lip products? You've come to the right place! This ULTA lip glossary breaks down everything you need to know about lipstick finishes and types. Get ready to become a lip product pro!
Decoding Lipstick Finishes
Let's dive into the different lipstick finishes! Understanding these finishes is crucial for achieving your desired lip look. Whether you're into a subtle sheen or a bold statement, there's a finish for you.
Matte
Matte lipsticks are the MVPs for long-lasting color and a no-shine finish. Guys, these lipsticks are seriously pigmented and stay put! The key to rocking a matte lip is proper prep. Exfoliate your lips to get rid of any dry skin, and then apply a hydrating lip balm. This will create a smooth canvas for your matte lipstick and prevent it from clinging to any imperfections. When applying, start at the center of your lips and work your way outwards, using a lip brush for precision. Blotting your lips after the first application and then applying another coat will increase its longevity. Matte lipsticks are perfect for occasions where you want your lip color to last for hours, like parties or important meetings. The modern formulations are more comfortable than the matte formulas of the past, so don't be afraid to experiment with different brands to find one that suits your preferences. Some popular matte lipstick shades include classic reds, deep berries, and trendy nudes. To keep your matte lipstick looking fresh throughout the day, avoid eating oily foods that can break down the formula. Instead, opt for blotting your lips with a tissue to remove any excess shine or moisture.
Satin
If you love a comfortable, soft look, satin lipsticks are your best bet. They deliver a velvety finish with a touch of sheen, making your lips look fuller and more hydrated. Satin lipsticks offer a balance between matte and glossy finishes. They provide good color payoff like matte lipsticks but with a more comfortable and hydrating feel. This makes them suitable for everyday wear, especially if you have dry or sensitive lips. To apply satin lipstick, start by lining your lips with a similar shade to prevent feathering and create a defined shape. Then, apply the lipstick directly from the tube or with a lip brush. The finish should be smooth and even, without being overly shiny or matte. Satin lipsticks come in a wide range of colors, from soft pinks and peaches to bold corals and reds, making them versatile for various occasions. They are also relatively low-maintenance compared to other finishes. You usually don't need to touch them up as frequently as glossy lipsticks. Plus, they are less likely to transfer onto cups or clothing than cream lipsticks. If you're new to wearing lipstick, satin finishes are an excellent starting point because they are easy to apply and comfortable to wear. Experiment with different shades and brands to find your perfect satin lipstick. The key is to choose a color that complements your skin tone and makes you feel confident.
Glossy
Glossy lipsticks are all about shine and hydration! They give your lips a plump, juicy look. Perfect for a youthful and fresh vibe. For those who adore a high-shine, luscious pout, glossy lipsticks are the way to go. Glossy lipsticks are formulated to reflect light, making your lips appear fuller and more voluminous. They often contain moisturizing ingredients that keep your lips hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. Glossy lipsticks come in various forms, including clear glosses, tinted glosses, and high-pigment glosses. Clear glosses can be worn alone for a natural, dewy look or layered over other lipsticks to add shine. Tinted glosses provide a hint of color while still maintaining a glossy finish. High-pigment glosses offer intense color payoff with a glossy sheen. When applying glossy lipstick, start at the center of your lower lip and spread the gloss outwards towards the corners of your mouth. Then, repeat on your upper lip. Avoid applying too much gloss, as it can feel sticky or migrate beyond your lip line. Blotting your lips with a tissue can help remove any excess gloss and prevent it from transferring. Glossy lipsticks are ideal for casual outings, parties, or any occasion where you want to make a statement with your lips. They are also great for adding a touch of glamour to your everyday makeup look. Pair a clear gloss with a smoky eye for a night out, or wear a tinted gloss with minimal makeup for a fresh, daytime look.
Metallic
Ready to rock a bold and edgy look? Metallic lipsticks are here for you! They have a reflective, high-shine finish that mimics the look of metal. These lipsticks are perfect for parties, concerts, or any event where you want to stand out from the crowd. Metallic lipsticks contain fine shimmer particles that create a multidimensional, reflective effect on your lips. They come in a wide range of shades, from classic golds and silvers to trendy bronzes, coppers, and iridescent hues. When applying metallic lipstick, start with a smooth, moisturized base to prevent the shimmer from clinging to any dry patches. Use a lip liner in a similar shade to define your lip shape and prevent the lipstick from bleeding. Then, apply the metallic lipstick directly from the tube or with a lip brush, ensuring even coverage. Metallic lipsticks can be worn alone for a bold, statement look or layered over other lipsticks to add a touch of shimmer and dimension. Pair a gold metallic lipstick with a smoky eye for a glamorous evening look, or wear a bronze metallic lipstick with a neutral makeup look for a subtle, yet edgy vibe. Metallic lipsticks are also great for experimenting with different lip art techniques, such as ombre lips or graphic designs. To keep your metallic lipstick looking fresh throughout the day, avoid eating oily foods and reapply as needed. Blotting your lips with a tissue can help remove any excess shine and prevent the lipstick from transferring.
Cream
Cream lipsticks offer a classic, smooth finish with medium shine. They're hydrating and comfortable to wear. Cream lipsticks are a go-to choice for makeup enthusiasts seeking a balance between color payoff, comfort, and hydration. Cream lipsticks are known for their smooth, emollient texture, which glides effortlessly onto the lips, providing a burst of color with a subtle sheen. These lipsticks are formulated with moisturizing ingredients that keep the lips feeling soft and supple throughout the day, making them ideal for those with dry or sensitive lips. Cream lipsticks come in a wide array of shades, ranging from soft nudes and rosy pinks to vibrant reds and deep berries, catering to diverse skin tones and preferences. Whether you're aiming for a natural, everyday look or a bold, statement lip, cream lipsticks offer versatility and ease of application. When applying cream lipstick, start by prepping your lips with a lip balm to create a smooth canvas. Then, use a lip liner in a similar shade to define the lip shape and prevent feathering. Apply the cream lipstick directly from the tube or with a lip brush, ensuring even coverage. Blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess product and increase longevity. Cream lipsticks are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, offering a polished and sophisticated look. Pair a nude cream lipstick with a smoky eye for a classic evening look, or wear a bright pink cream lipstick with minimal makeup for a fun, daytime vibe. To maintain the creamy texture and prevent the lipstick from melting, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Reapply as needed to keep your lips looking fresh and hydrated.
Exploring Different Lipstick Types
Now, let's move on to the different types of lipsticks. From classic bullets to innovative liquid formulas, there's a lipstick type to suit every preference.
Bullet Lipstick
The bullet lipstick is the OG! It's the traditional lipstick in a tube that you twist up. Easy to apply and perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Bullet lipsticks are a staple in every makeup lover's collection, renowned for their convenient application, diverse shades, and varying finishes. Bullet lipsticks consist of a solid, cylindrical stick of color encased in a tube, making them easy to carry and apply on the go. They come in a wide range of formulations, from creamy and moisturizing to matte and long-lasting, catering to different lip types and preferences. Bullet lipsticks are available in countless shades, from classic reds and pinks to trendy nudes and berries, allowing you to create endless lip looks. Whether you're aiming for a natural, everyday look or a bold, statement lip, there's a bullet lipstick to suit every occasion. When applying bullet lipstick, start by prepping your lips with a lip balm to create a smooth canvas. Then, twist up the lipstick and apply it directly to your lips, starting at the center and working your way outwards. Use a lip brush for more precise application, especially when working with darker or bolder shades. Blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess product and increase longevity. Bullet lipsticks are perfect for both beginners and experienced makeup users, offering a user-friendly application and a wide range of options. Pair a classic red bullet lipstick with a cat-eye liner for a timeless, glamorous look, or wear a nude bullet lipstick with a smoky eye for a modern, sophisticated vibe. To prevent your bullet lipstick from breaking or melting, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Reapply as needed to keep your lips looking fresh and vibrant.
Liquid Lipstick
For intense color and long wear, liquid lipsticks are a fantastic choice. They come in a tube with an applicator and dry down to a matte or glossy finish. Liquid lipsticks have revolutionized the makeup industry, offering unparalleled color payoff, long-lasting wear, and a variety of finishes. Liquid lipsticks are formulated as a liquid or creamy suspension of pigments that dry down upon application, creating a smudge-proof and transfer-resistant lip color. They come in a tube or vial with an applicator wand, allowing for precise and effortless application. Liquid lipsticks are available in a wide range of finishes, including matte, satin, metallic, and glossy, catering to diverse preferences. Matte liquid lipsticks are known for their intense color payoff and long-lasting wear, while glossy liquid lipsticks offer a high-shine finish with added hydration. When applying liquid lipstick, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips to create a smooth canvas. Use the applicator wand to carefully outline your lips, then fill in the rest of your lips with the liquid lipstick. Avoid layering the product too thickly, as this can cause it to crack or flake. Allow the liquid lipstick to dry completely before pressing your lips together. Liquid lipsticks are ideal for special occasions, parties, or any event where you want your lip color to last for hours without touch-ups. Pair a bold red liquid lipstick with a classic black dress for a glamorous evening look, or wear a nude liquid lipstick with a natural makeup look for a subtle, everyday vibe. To remove liquid lipstick, use an oil-based makeup remover to gently dissolve the product without irritating your lips. Store your liquid lipsticks in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out or becoming clumpy.
Lip Stain
Want a natural-looking flush of color? Lip stains are your go-to. They absorb into your lips, leaving a long-lasting tint that won't budge. Lip stains are a popular choice for those seeking a natural, long-lasting lip color that requires minimal maintenance. Lip stains are formulated to deposit color onto the lips, creating a sheer, natural-looking tint that lasts for hours. They come in various forms, including liquid, gel, and balm, each offering a different application experience. Lip stains are designed to be lightweight and non-transferable, making them ideal for everyday wear. They are available in a range of shades, from soft pinks and peaches to vibrant berries and reds, allowing you to customize your lip look. When applying lip stain, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips to create a smooth canvas. Use the applicator to apply a thin layer of lip stain to your lips, starting at the center and working your way outwards. Blend the product quickly, as lip stains tend to dry quickly. Avoid applying too much product, as this can result in an uneven or overly saturated color. Lip stains are perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance lip look that won't smudge, fade, or transfer. Pair a pink lip stain with a fresh, dewy complexion for a natural, youthful look, or wear a berry lip stain with a smoky eye for a more dramatic effect. To remove lip stain, use a gentle makeup remover or cleanser to dissolve the pigment. Store your lip stains in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out or changing color.
Lip Crayon
Lip crayons are super easy to use and perfect for precise application. They're like coloring for your lips! These are great for beginners or anyone who wants a quick and easy lip look. Lip crayons have become a beloved makeup bag staple, celebrated for their user-friendly application, precise control, and convenient portability. Lip crayons are designed as a chubby, pencil-like stick of lipstick that can be sharpened or twisted up for continued use. They offer a hybrid between traditional lipstick and lip liner, allowing you to easily define and fill in your lips with one product. Lip crayons come in a variety of finishes, including matte, satin, and glossy, catering to diverse preferences. They are available in a wide range of shades, from soft nudes and pinks to bold reds and berries, allowing you to create various lip looks. When applying lip crayon, start by outlining your lips with the tip of the crayon to define the shape. Then, fill in the rest of your lips with the crayon, using gentle pressure to deposit color evenly. Blend the edges with your finger or a lip brush for a seamless finish. Lip crayons are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, travel, or anyone who prefers a fuss-free lip application. Pair a nude lip crayon with a smoky eye for a classic, sophisticated look, or wear a bright pink lip crayon with a fresh, dewy complexion for a fun, youthful vibe. To keep your lip crayon in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sharpen as needed to maintain a precise tip.
Lip Plumper
Want to enhance your pout? Lip plumpers contain ingredients that temporarily make your lips look fuller. They can create a tingling sensation but give you a noticeable boost in volume. Lip plumpers have become a popular choice for those seeking a temporary boost in lip volume without resorting to invasive procedures. Lip plumpers are formulated with ingredients that stimulate blood flow to the lips, causing them to swell and appear fuller. Common ingredients include menthol, capsicum, and cinnamon. Lip plumpers come in various forms, including glosses, balms, and serums, each offering a different application experience. They are designed to be applied directly to the lips, providing an immediate plumping effect that typically lasts for a few hours. The tingling or stinging sensation is a normal reaction to the plumping ingredients. When applying lip plumper, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips to create a smooth canvas. Apply a thin layer of lip plumper to your lips, avoiding the surrounding skin. Wait a few minutes for the plumping effect to take place. Avoid applying too much product, as this can cause excessive tingling or irritation. Lip plumpers are perfect for special occasions, photoshoots, or any time you want to enhance your pout. Pair a clear lip plumper with your favorite lipstick for added volume and shine, or wear it alone for a natural, plumped-up look. To avoid irritation, discontinue use if you experience excessive stinging, redness, or swelling. Store your lip plumpers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Find Your Perfect Lip Product at ULTA!
So, there you have it! Your ultimate ULTA lip glossary is complete. Now that you know the difference between matte, satin, and glossy finishes, as well as the various types of lipsticks available, you're ready to find your perfect lip product at ULTA. Happy shopping, and may your lip game always be on point!