We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

Advertiser Disclosure

Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

How We Make Money

We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently from our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.

How Do I Use Matte Lipstick?

By Meshell Powell
Updated May 17, 2024
Our promise to you
WiseGEEK is dedicated to creating trustworthy, high-quality content that always prioritizes transparency, integrity, and inclusivity above all else. Our ensure that our content creation and review process includes rigorous fact-checking, evidence-based, and continual updates to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

Editorial Standards

At WiseGEEK, we are committed to creating content that you can trust. Our editorial process is designed to ensure that every piece of content we publish is accurate, reliable, and informative.

Our team of experienced writers and editors follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the highest quality content. We conduct thorough research, fact-check all information, and rely on credible sources to back up our claims. Our content is reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity.

We believe in transparency and maintain editorial independence from our advertisers. Our team does not receive direct compensation from advertisers, allowing us to create unbiased content that prioritizes your interests.

The first steps in using matte lipstick are to exfoliate and moisturize the lips, as this type of lipstick does not contain any moisturizers or gloss. A lip pencil can then be used to fill in the lips so that the lipstick lasts longer. After the lip pencil has been used, it is time to apply the matte lipstick, either directly from the applicator or with the use of a lip brush. The lips are then blotted with a tissue in order to remove any excess lipstick before applying a translucent powder over the lips.

When using matte lipstick, exfoliation and the use of a moisturizer are important steps that should not be neglected. A simple way to quickly perform these steps is to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly over the lips and then, using small circular motions, rub the lips with a toothbrush. The application of the toothbrush removes the dead skin cells while the petroleum jelly provides the necessary moisture. Alternately, there are commercial products available that are designed to exfoliate and moisturize the lips. Following exfoliation, an additional lip moisturizer can be used to avoid caking of the lipstick.

The next step in applying matte lipstick is to use a lip liner. After outlining the lips with a lip pencil, the lips are completely filled in with the lip pencil. This helps the matte lipstick last longer and may prevent the need for repeated applications. For additional protection, some people may choose to apply foundation and powder to the lips prior to using the lip pencil.

Matte lipstick can be applied directly from the tube, although the use of a lip brush allows for a more precise application and provides a more professional look. Care should be taken to keep the color within the confines of the natural lip line. Generally speaking, darker lipstick colors give the lips a thinner look, while lighter colors provide a fuller look.

Following lipstick application, a tissue can be used to gently blot the lips. This is done to remove any excess lipstick and to even out the color. The final step in applying matte lipstick is to apply a translucent powder to hold the lipstick in place. To do this, a tissue is placed gently over the lips and the powder is brushed softly over the tissue. Using the tissue ensures that enough powder reaches the lips while avoiding an uneven texture due to clumping of the powder.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Discussion Comments

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.