Powder lipstick: what is it and why does a makeup artist need it?

How and when did powder lipstick appear?

Powder lipstick became very popular in 2019, traditionally coming to us from South Korea. The development of a new product was very justified, because matte textures began to rapidly lose their fans due to excessive dryness and an unsightly effect on the lips a few hours after application.

Matte lipsticks were quickly followed by glossy glosses and liquid lipsticks with a wet finish, so the beauty industry quickly responded to the mood of consumers and developed powdery matte lipstick that glides on softly and does not dry out the skin at all.

Powder lipsticks are most often presented in cushion form, but stick and liquid lipstick formats with an applicator are also very common.

Matte lip cushion Pop Lip Shadow from Clinique

Powdery matte lipstick Rouge Allure Liquid Powder from Chanel

Benefits of powder lipstick

When you apply this product to your lips, a miracle happens. The powdery texture melts onto the lips and creates a beautiful velvety finish that, after a couple of minutes, gives the lips an effect that resembles a cross between a matte and satin finish. Some brands have powder lipsticks that are semi-matte, while others look like they've been powdered.

Now about the obvious advantages. Firstly, powder lipsticks look very natural on the lips, which corresponds to the latest trends. Secondly, they do not dry out the skin at all, which is an undeniable advantage compared to classic matte lipsticks. Thirdly, the product stays well on the lips for several hours and then fades smoothly, rather than being “eaten away”.

What is the secret of perfect texture?

The composition of powder lipstick differs significantly from the composition of its relatives. It contains neither water nor beeswax, but it contains silicon dioxide, which helps the product apply smoothly and beautifully. You'll also find several moisturizing ingredients that work hard to keep your lips from drying out: vitamin E, glycerin, or coconut oil.

Unlike classic matte lipsticks, powder products are easy to wash off, since they do not differ in durability. You can use hydrophilic oil, balm or regular cleanser.

Powder lipstick Modern Matte Powder from Shiseido

Lip cream Makeup Powder Puff Lippie from NYX Professional

How to apply powder lipstick?

This product allows you to achieve completely different effects on the lips, so makeup artists should pay attention to it. An ombre effect, kissed or powdered lips, or maybe just the most natural color on your lips – lipsticks in a new format will help you achieve the desired result.

Despite the large number of moisturizing components in the composition, powder lipsticks can emphasize initially dry areas and flaking, so first use a scrub and balm on the client’s lips.

Powder lipsticks are easy to apply and blend, so you won't have any problems with them. If you want to achieve a shaded contour, you can apply the lipstick with your finger, scooping it out of the tube, or apply it to your lips, and then blur the contour. With its help, it is also convenient to create an ombre effect: apply one shade at the center of the lips, and another closer to the edges. You can soften the boundaries by patting your fingers.