Do away with any ideas of gloopy gloss right now. The ’90s signature is witnessing a well-deserved revival, which has resulted in a surge in savvy products that make nailing a glossy lip easier (and far less sticky) than ever before.
‘It’s a historically high-maintenance texture, but these advances mean we now have glosses with far better staying power, which also feel much more comfortable on the mouth,’ explains make-up artist Neil Young. ‘Plus, it’s the quickest and most effective way of adding volume and plumpness to the lips, instantly.’
Just make sure to keep the rest of your make-up fresh and summery: ‘Choose luminous skin finishes but avoid too much highlighter, as this will compete with the lips,’ Neil advises. ‘On eyes, opt for sheer textures with a subtle sheen or natural matte shadows.’
Find out how to perfect the statement glossy lip with our step-by-step guide below...
Statement Step-By-Step Glossy Lip Tutorial
1 of 61. Define and Fill
'For the ultimate long-wearing glossy lip, start by applying a layer of matte-finish lip colour or lip pencil in the same shade as the gloss to prime,' advises Neil. 'Make sure – if using pencil – to ll in the lips fully, following their natural contours.' (Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil in Major, £25)
2 of 62. Intensify
Layer over a creamy matte (non-drying) lipstick formula for a full-impact hit of colour. Apply straight from the bullet or – if you want a notably defined Cupid's bow – go pro with a tapered lip brush. (By Killian Le Rouge Parfum Lipstick Matte In Heaven Rouge, $55)
3 of 63. Gloss
After gently blotting off any excess product with tissue, it's time to go straight in with the coloured gloss. 'For added plump and volume, choose a gloss containing subtly reflective particles or shimmer,' adds Neil. (NARS Lip Gloss in Misbehave, £20)
4 of 6For Medium Skin...
'Medium to olive complexions lends themselves to tangerines and cherry reds.' (Givenchy Interdit Vinyl Lip Gloss in 14 Solar Orange, £24.50)
5 of 6For Dark Skin...
'Deep-toned complexions look great with fuchsia, magenta and vivid scarlet red tones.' (Stila Beauty Boss Lip Gloss in In The Red, £14)
6 of 6For Fair Skin...
'For fair to light complexions, corals, peaches and tomato reds work well.' (hourglass unreal high Shine Volumising Lip Gloss in Icon, £28)