Meet the new generation of lip products

Gone are the days of products being divided into strict categories. Now, thanks to new technologies and innovations, there seems to be more of a fusion of product types than ever before - each catering to specific makeup concerns and dilemmas. Love the finish of a matte lipstick but hate applying it from a bullet? Then a mattifying lip colour could be your next purchase. Or maybe you want to turn heads with a bold shade without having to commit to layering the colour? That’s sorted; a lip paint is perfect for you. Here, discover the latest lip products to hit shelves; there’s seriously something for everyone.

If you prefer... a subtle approach

Try: A balm or gloss

Why: Want to coat your lips with just a touch of product and colour, without making too much of an impact? A gloss or balm is perfect because both are low-maintenance and are usually packed with skin-loving ingredients to boost moisture.

How to wear it: We recommend dabbing it straight from the bullet or tube onto your lips. Or, “for a more pastel colour, mix the gloss with a little concealer, then use your fingertips to tap the product onto your lips,” says makeup artist Napoleon Perdis.

Toolkit:

Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot PH Lip Shine features a blend of argan and jojoba oils to keep smackers hydrated. One reason we can’t stop swiping is because the colour changes depending on your skin’s pH levels. Genius, huh?

L’Oréal Paris Sexy Balm is a clever gel balm formula that keeps lips soft and supple, and tinted with just a smidge of colour.

We’re sold on YSL Volupté Tint-In-Balms - they melt into lips instantly, feature a cute-as-a-button lip graphic on the bullet, and are scented with a fun fruit flavour.

If you prefer… something between a matte and a gloss

Try: Lip crayons

Why: Crayons have been sitting pretty on many makeup counters for the last couple of years, but the newest bunch to hit shelves claim to do much more than offer a hint of colour. Now, these lippies feel less waxy and sticky, and provide even more comfort to your skin. You won’t even remember you’re wearing anything at all.

How to do it: “For a more sleek and graphic look, start with the edges by drawing a sharp, crisp line before filing in the centre,” says Tony Baumann Head of Artistry of MECCA. “Or for a softer look, apply the product to the centre of the lips and rub them together for a more diffused look.”

Toolkit:

Hourglass Girl Lip Stylo brings together the moisturising properties of a balm, the precise application of a liner and the punchy colour of a lipstick. Available February 28 at mecca.com.au.

Loaded with hyaluronic acid, Revlon Ultra HD Gel Lipcolors feel smooth like a gloss and offer a heavy hit of colour.

Bourjois Color Boost is water-resistant and features SPF 15 protection. Colour and functionality in one product? Sold!

If you prefer... an intense hit colour

Try: A lip paint

Why: A lip paint offers maximum coverage, with the comfortable feel of a than a balm or crayon. If you’re looking to experiment with brighter colours or bolder finishes, a lip paint is what you should reach for, as they’re packed with pigment and are not for the colour-shy.

How to do it: “With Maybelline New York Color Jolt, I love applying it straight from the tube using its super soft lip angled applicator, which will get you seriously precise results every time,” says Maybelline New York Makeup Director Nigel Stanislaus. “For best and clean results when re-applying,  I always recommend taking it all off and starting again.”  

Toolkit:

They may be tiny in size, but Maybelline New York Lip Studio Color Jolt Intense Lip Paints sure deliver serious results.

Zoeva Pure Velours Lips has a tapered brush which allows you to have full control of the application process.

Make Up For Ever Artist Acrylips are loaded with colour, and have tiny silica gel particles to fill in lines around your mouth, making your lips look smoother and fuller.

If you prefer… a flat finish

Try: A mattifying lip colour

Why: If you love mattifying lipsticks but hate how the colour can bleed or feather over time, then you’ll love a mattifying lip colour. They may look like a gloss (as they’re usually packaged in a tube with a brush or doe foot applicator), but the clever formula sets in a matter of seconds, making it a clear winner if you’re looking for something long-wearing with a non-drying matte finish.

How to do it: “Paint the colour straight onto lips using the applicator, let it dry, and avoid rubbing your lips together,” says MAC Senior Artist Nicole Thompson. “I always apply to the bottom lip first as it is usually fuller, then draw a ‘v’ at the cupid’s bow to get it looking as symmetrical as possible. Once that’s done, join the ‘v’ shape with the outer corners of your lips.”  

Toolkit:

MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lip Colour goes on opaque yet is silky and comfortable to wear. 

Bobbi Brown Art Stick Liquid Lip dries to a semi-matte and bold rouge finish, feels light as a feather, and claims to last on lips for up to eight hours. Available March at bobbibrown.com.au.

Looking for a new nude? Bare Minerals Gen Nude Matte Liquid Lip Colour will cover your bases and be your go-to for all occasions.

Main image photography: Sevak Babakhani

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