If you have big lips, use muted colors such as purple, brown and bronze. If you have small lips, avoid dark colors.

Your face is the canvas and now it is the time to create.

Liner:

Although a lot of people say lip liner is optional, it is a great way to define your lips and stop your lipstick from bleeding. First, gently rub a washcloth over your lips to get rid of any dead skin. When the surface of your lips are smooth, then your are ready.

Start by lining your lips with your lip pencil. The liner should not be more then one shade darker then your lipstick; you want to use a neutral or complementary color. Starting on your upper lip, in the center, draw a line to each corner. Be sure to follow your natural lip line as close as possible, without going outside the line (and you thought the skills you learned in kindergarten would never be useful!).

No one has perfect lips, so be careful not to overcorrect them with your pencil. Remember, it is okay to use lip liner on the outer or inner edge of your natural lip line. It is not okay to apply liner outside of the lip line; this won't do a thing for you, I promise!

Now fill in your lips with the pencil, which will make your lipstick last longer.

Use your finger or a makeup sponge to soften the edge.


Lipstick:

Remember, your lipstick needs to compliment not only your skin tone, but also the rest of your makeup. Pick a color that brightens up your face but doesn't overpower it. Sometimes, dark shades can harden and age your face and shades that are too soft can make you look washed out. Experiment to see what works best for your look

The best way to apply lipstick is with a lip brush. Starting at the center of your bottom lip, apply your lipstick up to the corners, then do your top lip in the same fashion. Reapply if necessary, and then blot. For a more dramatic look, dab on a bit of lip gloss.

To make your lipstick last longer, brush a thin layer of loose powder between coats of lipstick and then blot. Now press your lips together to set the powder.


Tips and Tricks:

TIP: You exfoliate you face and your body, and it's just as important, to exfoliate your lips. Use a soft toothbrush and gently run it over your lips to remove dead skin cells. Don't forget to moisturize your lips as well: almond oil, shea butter and coconut oil are all wonderful products.

TIP: Want that pouty look: Try dabbing a little bit of lip gloss, or even petroleum jelly, at the center of your upper lip.

TIP: How do you keep your lipstick on during dinner? Let your teeth and tongue do the work of eating and keep your lips off of the utensils.

TIP: Chapstick has many uses. It is a great way to keep your lipstick on your lips. Apply Chapstick to your bare lips and then apply your first coat of lipstick. Not only will it hold your color, but it also heals and protects your lips.

TIP: If you have thin lips, don't use a matte color.

TIP: If you have full lips, be careful with glossy colors as they will make your lips look bigger.

TIP: This is fun! If you want a custom color, made by you, just for you, mix your favorite colors together and apply.