Style

10 Lipstick Top-Coats To Alter Any Color

by Miki Hayes
Close up beautiful young woman applying lip gloss
Caia Image/Photodisc/Getty Images

Lipstick has magical powers. It can change your look, boost your mood, and even help empty your bank account. OK, maybe not that last thing. But actually, if you're a self-proclaimed lipstick-addict, maybe it's not too much of a stretch. So if you need a way to slow down your ever-growing lipstick collection without sacrificing variety (yes, that brown-red is different from that brick-red), a lipstick top-coat is totally the way to go. Adding just one top-coat can effectively double any collection, and the best part is, there are quite a few options to choose from.

Yep, whether you want to be able to make any of your lippies matte, metallic, or even vampy, there's a top-coat to help transform your pout. Not to mention that you can also wear most of them on their own for a unique look. And especially if you have that shade in your collection that doesn't quite jibe with your complexion, a top-coat is a great way to alter it to better suit your undertones. So you can get at least two looks out of every lipstick you already own (or simply make certain shades more wearable), here are 10 top-coats to layer with and expand your collection:

1. Metallic

Courtesy Brand

Jouer Cosmetics Long-Wear Lip Topper, $16, Amazon

Add a metallic finish and a hint of color to any lipstick, including liquid lipsticks, with this topper that comes in three, flattering shades.

2. Smoky

Courtesy Brand

Lipstick Queen Black Lace Rabbit, $14, Amazon

Add a veil of mystery to any lippie with this topper that imparts a sheer layer of darkness with flecks of gold.

3. Opalescent

Courtesy Brand

Bite Beauty Opal Creme Lipstick, $24, Sephora

This opalescent lipstick will take any color to the next level with blue and purple pearls that give lips a multidimensional look.

4. Matte

Courtesy Brand

Smashbox Insta-Matte Lipstick Transformer, $24, Sephora

Instantly transform any lipstick into a matte version of itself with this top coat that takes away the shine but not the comfort.

5. Vampy

Courtesy Brand

NYX Cosmetics V'Amped Up! Lip Top Coat, $7, CVS

Easily go from day to night with this glossy pencil that moisturizes lips and deepens any color.

6. White

Courtesy Brand

Bite Beauty Matte Creme Lip Crayon In Blanc, $24, Sephora

A white lipstick gives you tons of options. Layer it over or under any lipstick to lighten it, or even tap it on just part of your lips for a cool, ombre effect.

7. Glitter

Courtesy Brand

Stila Cosmetics Glitterati Lip Top Coat, $22, Sephora

Add some sparkle to your liquid lipstick without compromising the matte effect with this topper that comes in pink and berry-glitter options.

8. Glowing

Courtesy Brand

Lipstick Queen Ice Queen, $18, Amazon

This sheer, white lipstick with gold and silver flecks will illuminate your lips or any lipstick like your favorite highlighter does your cheeks.

9. Sunscreen

Courtesy Brand

Supergoop Shine On Lip Screen, $22, Amazon

Give any lippie a protective quality with this gloss topper that hydrates and provides SPF 50 to the lips.

10. Transfer-Proof

Courtesy Brand

Know Cosmetics No My Lips Are Sealed Lipstick Topcoat, $10, Urban Outfitters

If you need to make sure your favorite lipstick lasts all day without fading or transferring, add this top-coat that will seal in your color.

Oh yeah, a lip topper will totally up your lipstick game.

Images: Caia Image/Photodisc/Getty Images; Courtesy of Brands