This gesture at the end of application transforms the look of your lipstick, according to make-up artists

Choosing the right lipstick may seem trivial, but this daily gesture makes all the difference on your face. Matte or satin, this essential make-up accessory enhances the mouth and illuminates the complexion. Here’s how to find the ideal formula and apply it with precision in 2026.

Prepare lips before application

Before unsheathing your favorite tube, your lips deserve special attention. A well-prepared mouth guarantees impeccable color and texture. Dead skin and chapped lips can compromise the product’s staying power.

To achieve this, exfoliate your lips once a week with a special lip scrub. As soon as they feel dry, apply a nourishing balm. At night, apply a thick layer of lip mask to deeply pamper your lips.

This simple ritual prepares the skin to receive make-up. What’s more, it prolongs color hold throughout the day. A moisturized mouth holds pigments better and avoids cracking.

The two main families of formulas

Whether matte or satin, lipsticks come in two main categories. Moisturizing formulas are ideal for those who often have dry lips. They provide a balm-like sensation while depositing elegant color.

“Whether matte or satin, there are lipsticks with moisturizing properties or long-lasting action.”

Long-lasting versions, meanwhile, are for women who need infallible make-up from morning to night. These formulas withstand meals and drinks. So they avoid frequent touch-ups.

Your choice depends on your lifestyle. A busy day calls for a robust outfit. A quiet weekend, on the other hand, calls for a lighter, more nourishing texture.

Moisturizing formulas to choose

Among the matte-finish options, Merit’s Signature Lip Blush (€32) stands out. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and sesame seeds, it provides long-lasting hydration. Its velvety texture provides an elegant blurring effect.

Zao’s Cocoon Lipstick (€17.90) offers a hybrid approach. Part lipstick, part balm, it contains organic shea butter and organic pomegranate. This blend soothes, repairs and delivers hyper-natural results.

• Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
• Organic shea butter with nourishing properties
• Organic pomegranate with antioxidant and anti-aging properties
• Ume flower oil for long-lasting comfort
• Vegetable waxes for a melting texture

For a satin finish, Revlon’s Super Lustrous Glass Shine (€11.50) combines gloss and balm. It combines aloe vera and rose quartz to lightly plump the mouth. Its bevelled tip makes application quick and precise.

Rouge Allure L’Extrait by Chanel (€57) moisturizes for 12 hours and protects for 10. Its oil-coated pigments distill intense color for 8 hours. This model is refillable, a valuable asset for eco-responsible people.

How to apply lipstick like a pro

Technique counts as much as the product itself. Start by outlining your lips with a pencil. This step prevents the color from running and structures the mouth.

Next, apply the shade to the upper lip, working from the ends towards the center. Repeat on lower lip. A brush guarantees a precise result, while a finger gives a soft, romantic finish.

For a natural effect, tap lightly after application. This tip blurs the edges and creates a subtle gradation. The result is equally at home in the office or at a party.

Long-lasting formulas to adopt

M.A.C’s M-A-Cximal Sleek Satin Lipstick (€27) moisturizes lips for 8 hours. Its pomegranate flower extract nourishes, while camellia and rosehip oils revitalize. This lipstick has a soft vanilla fragrance.

Vitry BB Lips (€19.99) is 99% natural ingredients. Cocoa butter and shea butter ensure hydration. Thanks to sunflower seed wax, this product can be applied with a finger or a brush, depending on the desired intensity.

Rouge Velvet Matte by Givenchy (€48) provides intense color from the very first stroke. Its formula contains 2% hyaluronic acid and shea butter. It plumps lips for 24 hours and instantly blurs the mouth.

Finally, Clinique Pop Long-Wear (€29.50) combines rich matte color with ultra-durable comfort for 8 hours. Its transfer-free technology keeps make-up in place all day long. The result remains intense from the very first application.

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