Whether you love a bold red, a muted nude, or a soft gloss, lipstick always looks best when your lips are prepped. Dry patches or uneven texture can take away from the experience of wearing your favorite shade. The good news? Prepping your lips doesn’t take much time, and it helps your color wear better and feel more comfortable.

Here’s how to create a simple, effective lip prep routine that sets the stage for any lipstick moment.

Why Prepping Your Lips Makes a Difference

Lipstick is all about expression, but even the most iconic formulas deserve a great base to build on. If your lips are dry or textured, color may apply unevenly or fade quickly. A few simple steps can help create a smoother surface, extend wear time, and give your color a stronger, more even finish.

Step 1: Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and smooth out rough spots. This step softens your lips and allows lipstick to lay down evenly without clinging to dry areas.

Try one of these methods:

• Use a lip scrub made with sugar and conditioning oils
  

• Gently brush lips with a clean, damp toothbrush
  

• Use a soft washcloth or lip exfoliating tool
  

Stick to exfoliating just one to three times per week. Too much can leave lips feeling raw or irritated.

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Step 2: Apply a Hydrating Lip Balm

Once you’ve exfoliated, follow up with a lip balm that softens and hydrates. Look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, or Vitamin E to help lock in moisture.

Let the balm absorb for a few minutes. If you're applying a matte lipstick, gently blot any excess before applying color to prevent slipping.

Lip balm isn’t just for winter. It’s a year-round staple for keeping lips smooth and comfortable under any lipstick.

Step 3: Use a Lip Primer or Concealer (Optional)

This step isn’t a must, but it can help lipstick go on more evenly and last longer. A light layer of primer or concealer helps create a neutral base, especially if you want your lipstick shade to appear true to color.

When this step is helpful:

• When applying bold or vivid colors
  

• For lightweight or sheer formulas
  

• To reduce the appearance of lip lines

Starting with a smooth base helps Revlon’s high-pigment lipsticks shine in every shade.

Step 4: Define with Lip Liner

Lip liner is a smart way to shape your lips, prevent feathering, and create a base layer of color that adds staying power. Trace along your natural lip line, then fill in lightly to help lipstick hold throughout the day.

This step works well with:

• Matte or satin finishes
  

• Dark or bold lip colors
  

• Long-wear lipstick formulas

Step 5: Apply Lipstick

With your lips prepped and primed, it’s time to apply color. Whether you swipe straight from the bullet or use a brush for more control, apply your shade with intention. Press lips together and tap in any edges with your fingertip.

For longer wear, try this layering technique:

1. Apply the first layer of lipstick.
   

2. Blot lightly with a tissue.
   

3. Apply a second layer to lock in color.

Smooth, conditioned lips help Revlon’s Super Lustrous™ lipstick shades deliver rich color and comfortable wear. Browse all shades

Final Touch: Lock In Your Look

If you want to make your lip color last even longer, finish with one of these easy techniques:

• Place a tissue over lips and dust translucent powder over it
  

• Use a setting spray after your full makeup routine
  

• Bring your lipstick or liner for easy touchups throughout the day

Final Takeaway: Lip Prep Is a Power Move

Prepping your lips doesn’t have to be a big production. It’s about taking a few moments for yourself, softening the edges, and creating a clean slate for bold color. Whether your look is understated or expressive, prepping your lips helps you wear any shade with confidence.

Ready to take your lipstick to the next level? Explore Revlon’s collection of lipsticks, glosses, and balms to build your go-to lip routine.