Attention to lips: types of lipsticks by format, texture and finish

Alesya Kuzmenok, makeup artist for television projects and Ukrainian Fashion Week shows, multiple winner of Ukrainian makeup championships

Today there are many lipstick options on the market that are easy to apply, give the effect of either a wet gloss or kissed lips, and look as natural as possible. In the article we will talk about what modern lipstick is, what types it is divided into, what properties it has, what is the significance of its texture and what is the finish of a lipstick.

Types of lipsticks by format

Gloss lipstick can be in the form of a stick or in a tube. Gives translucent coverage and a radiant effect, increases lip volume. The least durable of all types of lipsticks.

The texture of the lipstick pencil is close to that of a hard lipstick and applies in a thin layer. Its unique pencil shape allows for precise application without using a liner - just line your lips first, then fill in the center with color.

Lipstick-balm combines the decorative effect and properties of a balm: nourishes, moisturizes, heals cracks, prevents peeling, protects from the sun. Gives a translucent finish.

Lipstick-varnish combines the richness of the color of classic lipstick and a mirror-like seductive shine, and has moisturizing properties. Available in tubes with an applicator or brush for more precise application. The downside of this lipstick is that it is unstable on the lips.

Lipstick-feel-tip pen is for minimalists who do not like saturated colors, various effects, or the feeling of any texture on the lips. The felt-tip pen enhances the natural color, creating the look of kissed lips. However, this lipstick does not moisturize the lips and can cause a feeling of dryness.

Multifunctional lipstick is a lip makeup product that will save space in your makeup bag. This lipstick combines the properties of a contour pencil, balm, classic lipstick and gloss. Contains oils, anti-aging, healing, moisturizing components, SPF. Its shape in the form of a pencil with a lead allows you to apply the product in one easy movement and without a mirror.

Types of lipsticks by properties

Based on their main properties, lipsticks can be divided into moisturizing, nourishing, hygienic and long-lasting.

Moisturizing lipsticks are perhaps the most popular at any time of the year. They contain moisturizing components and vitamins, lay down in an even thin layer, and do not roll down. With regular use of these lipsticks, your lips become soft and smooth.

Nourishing - these lipsticks contain nourishing oils, waxes, vitamins A and E. They are characterized by a rich texture, uniform and easy application. Such products are especially popular in the winter: thanks to their composition, they protect lips from chapping and frosty wind.

Hygienic - as a rule, these are colorless lipsticks. They soften the delicate skin of the lips, heal cracks and eliminate flaking, prevent the appearance of herpes, and add smoothness and natural shine.

Long-lasting – lasts for 6-8 hours. They are based on volatile silicone oils, which, evaporating after 1-2 minutes, fix the lipstick on the lips. These lipsticks do not contain oils, which ensures their durability, but the lips will experience discomfort and dryness.

Types of lipsticks by texture

The texture of lipstick is no less important than its color and properties. After all, it is she who gives us a feeling of either comfort or dryness on our lips.

The creamy texture of the lipstick is thick, rich, and can be in the form of a stick, palette, or tube. It is applied with a brush, has enveloping properties, and thanks to the high concentration of pigment, lasts quite a long time.

Solid texture - classic, always in the form of a stick, with a high concentration of pigment. It applies in a very thin layer, does not spread or roll down, and stays on the lips for a long time.

Types of lipsticks by finish

The finish of a lipstick is the type of coverage, that is, the effect it creates on the lips after application. There are several types of finishes.

Satin finish - this is achieved by a classic medium-weight moisturizing lipstick. May contain reflective particles. Gives lips a slight shine, suitable for any look.

The glossy finish looks like gloss was applied over lipstick. May contain mother-of-pearl, have a fairly thick color, or provide a translucent coating. Visually creates the effect of moist lips and increases their volume.

A matte finish is given by lipsticks that are devoid of any shine. They have ideal color rendition: whatever shade is in the stick is what you will get on your lips.

The satin finish can be equated to matte, but with the addition of mother-of-pearl. This lipstick gives a light reflective, but not wet effect.

Transparent finish - the concentration of pigment in this lipstick is low, even the brightest color on the lips will be barely perceptible. Perfect for daytime makeup.

I wish you to always choose the lipstick that really suits your clients and will make your lips not only seductive, but also preserve their beauty and health.

The article was first published in MAKEUP&YOU Professional magazine.