December is the time for red lips, sparkling wine and delicious food, but what when our perfect lipstick usually doesn't last even the first few sips or bites? How do you ensure that your Christmas look remains sparkling and flawless from aperitif to dessert? Read on for tricks that will keep your red lipstick in place throughout the holiday party.
Red lipstick it's almost as much a must-have during the festive season as Christmas reindeer sweaters. It is a symbol of glamour, confidence and festive elegance. However, it can become a real nightmare - no one wants to leave a trace of your lipstick on the plate with every bite of turkey. Besides, you don't want to kiss a glass instead of your date.
Red lipstick - the best (and most stubborn) holiday accessory
So how do you prevent your divine red lipstick from turning into a smudged disaster? Here are some tried-and-true tricks.
1. Lip prep is key
First: lip scrub. Dry and chapped lips are the enemies of every lipstick. Removes dead skin with a gentle exfoliation - you can use store-bought or a homemade mixture of sugar and honey. Then apply moisturizing balm, but wipe it well before applying lipstick. Why? Because lipstick adheres better to dry but smooth lips.
2. Use a lip primer
Just like for the face, there are also primers for the lips. With this little trick, you will create a perfect base that will prevent the lipstick from settling into fine lines. The case works as a sort glue for lipstick.
3. Lip pencil – your best friend
No, this is not a step you can skip. With a red pencil, draw the outline of the lips and fill them. This step will make the lipstick last longer and prevent it from creeping outside the edges. The pencil works as protective wall for your lipstick.
4. The right application of lipstick: More layers, more joy
Applying lipstick also requires some tactics. Did you apply the first layer? Take a tissue and press it on your lips to remove the excess color. Then apply another layer of lipstick. More thin layers mean better durability. If you feel like a true professional, apply red lipstick with I brush – accuracy counts!
5. Set the lipstick with powder
A trick that makeup artists also use: take a tissue and gently press it on your lips. Apply a bit of clear loose powder over the tissue with a brush. This process will "lock" the lipstick and prevent it from smudging. No more marks on the glass, just pure red perfection.
6. Choose the right lipstick formula
If you want really long-lasting durability, avoid cream lipsticks that like to "walk" on the face. Choose instead matte liquid lipstick, which dries completely. These lipsticks are known for their durability, just make sure you prep your lips well before applying as they can dry out the skin.
7. And one last trick: Don't forget the straw
To prevent stains on your glass, drink through a straw at your holiday party (if possible, choose an environmentally friendly one). A straw is your savior when it comes to sparkling wine and cocktails – less contact with the glass means less chance of lipstick fading.
Let your lipstick survive the Christmas dinner
Now that you know all the secrets, you can confidently smile, toast and eat without worrying about your lipstick disappearing before the main course. Red lipstick is a holiday classic, so let it really shine. With these tricks, your glamorous look will last until the midnight dance and beyond!