Beauty school: statement glossy lip
I know I should know this, but... Lip gloss is back and it’s bolder (and better) than ever. Think you can’t rock it? Think again…
do away with any ideas of gloopy gloss right now. The ’90s signature is witnessing a well-deserved revival, which has resulted in a surge in savvy products that make nailing a glossy lip easier (and far less sticky) than ever before. ‘It’s a historically high-maintenance texture, but these advances mean we now have glosses with far better staying power, which also feel much more comfortable on the mouth,’ explains make-up artist Neil Young. ‘Plus, it’s the quickest and most effective way of adding volume and plumpness to the lips, instantly.’ Just make sure to keep the rest of your make-up fresh and summery: ‘Choose luminous skin finishes but avoid too much highlighter, as this will compete with the lips,’ Neil advises. ‘On eyes, opt for sheer textures with a subtle sheen or natural matte shadows.’
1. DEFINE AND FILL
‘For the ultimate long-wearing glossy lip, start by applying a layer of matte-finish lip colour or lip pencil in the same shade as the gloss to prime,’ advises Neil. ‘Make sure – if using pencil – to fill in the lips fully, following their natural contours.’
2. INTENSIFY
Layer over a creamy matte (non-drying) lipstick formula for a full-impact hit of colour. Apply straight from the bullet or – if you want a notably defined Cupid’s bow – go pro with a tapered lip brush.
3. GLOSS
After gently blotting off any excess product with tissue, it’s time to go straight in with the coloured gloss. ‘For added plump and volume, choose a gloss containing subtly reflective particles or shimmer,’ adds Neil.