It isn’t a good look when lipstick bleeds into your lip lines. In fact, it sucks because it’s a real age give away! And at the end of the day, we want our newly applied lipstick to stay exactly where we put it, which is on our lips!
As we age, our lips lose their plumpness in part due to collagen depletion which causes the lips to slightly ‘shrink’, leaving the lips less voluminous and more susceptible to lines. Moreover, lips dry and dehydrate which results in deeper crevices and premature aging of the skin around the lips.
This is often exacerbated by smoking, sun exposure and certain facial expressions.
Don’t despair!
There are several clever hacks that you can use to ensure that lipstick bleeding is kept to a minimum.
Top Tips To Stop Your Lipstick Bleeding
Select Colours Wisely
Bolder colours such as red, brown and plum are more unforgiving and much more noticeable when feathering or bleeding occurs. Be clever in the colour choices you make by opting for paler, nude colour lipsticks that are less obvious if they do bleed.
Choose Matte
Matte versus glossier lipsticks bleed less. You will be doing yourself a huge favour by choosing the matte option by not having to mop up the gooey mess that gloss lipsticks can create as it ‘leaks’ into the crevices.
Starts With Foundation
When applying your foundation, ensure to visit the outline of your lips and coat the cracks. A dusting of setting powder will help set the foundation and minimise the bleeding.
Lip Liner Barrier Product
Until recently, I didn’t even know this kind of product existed! Invisible lip liners act like a barrier and are a great solution for filling in lip cracks. They can be used with any shade of lippy and act as a moisturising barrier to protect colour from bleeding.
Most makeup manufacturers have their own version of this product and they vary in price. One of the best ones I have used (and most cost effective) is Rimmel London Moisture Renew Lip Liner.
It contains Shea butter which offers a moisturising barrier to protect lip colour from smudging and bleeding for up to 7 hours. It is a clear shade that works perfectly with any lipstick. Also, it is dermatologically tested which is great if you have sensitive skin.
This is available in both the UK and the US.
Lip Liner
This is an easy fix that works a treat when using a lip pencil that is very close in colour to your natural lip colour. Don’t go for the voluminous look here but instead, apply slightly inside your lip line, blot and then apply lipstick.
Blot To Take Off The Reside
This is a classic oldie but goldie! I remember doing this in my teens and still do it in my fifties. Apply the first coat of lipstick, double over the tissue and place between your lips, blot to get rid of lipstick residue and then re-apply a second coat, blot again and you are good to go.
Apply With Lip Brush
Applying lipstick with a lip brush will help minimise smudging, caking and of course bleeding. It is not only the most hygienic way to apply lipstick but will also ensure that you don’t go overboard with excess which can lead to lipstick feathering.
Gentle With The Gloss
Glossy lips look beautiful and of course sexy but be careful with the gloss. Too much can lead to bleeding so stay away from the edges of your lips and focus on adding the gloss in the centre.
Keep Lips Nourished & Hydrated
You should always make sure your lips are hydrated by using a daily lip balm, especially when in the sun. They look healthier, are less likely to peel and will maintain structure and definition as we age.
Exfoliate Often
Exfoliation can help remove any loose or dry skin leaving a smooth surface for you to apply your lipstick. There are many lip scrubs out there but an easy hack is to mix ½ teaspoon of olive oil and ½ teaspoon of salt (or sugar) and gently rub across the lips 2-3 times a week. You can also rub a flannel or terry cloth hard across your lips which has a similar effect.
Add Collagen
Collagen is the naturally occurring compound that is responsible for keeping your lips firm, smooth and voluminous. Collagen depletes as we age so it makes sense to add a collagen supplement to your daily diet to ensure the integrity and structure of your lips is maintained and you can enjoy your youthful pout for many years to come!
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