Fashion

4 Super Easy Ways To Improve Your Lipstick Game

by Miki Hayes

I'll admit that I probably have enough lipstick to last a lifetime. But the problem with lipstick is that even when, practically speaking, you simply don't need anymore, it's hard to feel like you ever truly have enough. (That pinky nude is totally different from that peachy nude!) Which is why sometimes a good lipstick hack that'll amp up your pout is just the ticket for getting around feeling like you need to buy a new lippie.

So whether you want to try out a new, metallic lipstick; achieve a sparkly pout; or even a shiny ombre, you can actually do it with products you probably already own. Plus, it'll be like having infinite new lipsticks, depending on how you choose to pair and layer your products. Simply mix-and-match any highlighters, eyeshadows, glitters, and pigments you may have with any and all of your lipsticks. And the best part is, creating one of these new lip looks is super easy. All you have to do is swipe on your lipstick (I recommend a matte formula for minimal transfer) and then dab on your topper with your finger or a brush for a custom look. Need some combo ideas? Here are four to try. Your lipstick game is about to get a serious upgrade.

1. Highlighter

For a nude, metallic lip, first apply your favorite, neutral lipstick and then dab your go-to highlighter on top. The more you build up the highlighter, the more metallic your lip will be. If you want a more contrasted lip look, try layering a darker, bolder shade under your highlighter.

Products used: Jouer Lip Creme in Creme Brulee, $18, Amazon; Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal, $38, Amazon

2. Eyeshadow

Amp up your lipstick and even change its color by layering an eyeshadow on top. Keep it classic by pairing a red lipstick with a pink, pearlized shadow, or make it totally your own by pairing something like a blue, metallic shadow over a lavender lippie. The options are endless.

Products used: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Fiery, $24, Amazon; Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow in I-804 Golden Pink, $28, Amazon

3. Glitter

For a super-sparkly pout (yes, please), tap on any face glitter over your lipstick. An iridescent, silver, or gold glitter will pair with just about any lipstick, but you could even play with different colors. Try rose glitter with pink lipstick, copper glitter with a brown lipstick, or even teal glitter with black lipstick. Whatever you choose, have fun with it.

Products used: Milani Color Statement Moisture Matte Lipstick in Matte Blissful, $15, Amazon; NYX Face and Body Glitter in Rose, $15, Amazon

4. Pigment

Add both shine and color by topping off your lipstick with your favorite pigment. Try a slightly different pair like a red-orange lipstick with a shimmering peach pigment or a taupe lipstick with a light-pink pigment. Keep the pigment concentrated on the center of your lips for a seriously cool ombre effect.

Products used: Milani Color Statement Moisture Matte Lipstick in Matte Passion, $15, Amazon; MAC Pigment in Melon, $31, Amazon

And yeah, while all of these combos are pretty 'grammable, honestly, they look even cooler in person.

Images: Miki Hayes (9)