HOW TO MAKE YOUR LIPSTICK LAST

No one has time to touch up their lipstick this party season – not when there are cocktails to be consumed and friends to catch up with. Makeup artist Max May shares his top tips on how to get your pout to go the distance.

USE A PRIMER

In much the same way a face primer provides a good base for foundation, a lip primer, such as Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Lip Service, gives lip colour something to hold on to. Another good prep strategy: smooth lips. Velvet Concepts Lip Prep+ Intensive Repair Mask helps de-flake lips while drenching them in cacao and shea butter, while Philosophy Kiss Me Tonight Intense Lip Therapy works overnight on seriously chapped lips to prepare them for colour the next day.

REMEMBER LIP LINER

Lip liner has recently faded into the background, but it really is the unsung hero of your lip look. “Lip liner is the key to true longevity, and it won’t make lips look heavy,” explains May. Use it to trace the perimeter of your natural lip line and colour the entire lip, then go over the top with your chosen lipstick. That way, even if your lipstick wears off, some colour will still be present. Two to try: Nude by Nature Defining Lip Pencil features a trio of oils (macadamia, mango seed and meadowfoam seed) to keep lips nourished, while Natio Long Lasting Lip Liner has an in-built sharpener for on the go beauty.

CHOOSE COLOUR WISELY

“I suggest going with a colour that’s not too dissimilar to your natural lips – maybe a touch brighter or even a tiny bit more nude – so that as the colour wears off and your natural lip colour comes through, it appears softer,” explains May. Nude by Nature Creamy Matte Lipstick comes in a range of flattering neutral shades (Blush Nude, Rose Quartz and Peach are our favourites), while Butter London Plush Rush Lipstick offers wearable shades (try Free or Elated) with a beautiful satin finish.