Applying liquid lipstick: a guide to an even matte lip look

Apply liquid lipstick in a thin, even layer to clean lips. Blot away excess balm first, follow your lip outline and let the colour dry according to the product instructions. Then touch up only where colour is missing.

A matte liquid lipstick adds colour without the shine of gloss. The amount you use and how you let the layer dry affect application. Below, find a step-by-step guide, solutions for an uneven layer and tips for touching up during the day.

What is liquid lipstick?

Liquid lipstick is a fluid lip colour usually applied with an applicator. A matte version dries to a matte finish. A regular lipstick in a stick can also be matte: packaging and finish are two different properties.

The Liquid Matte Lipsticks by By Dash Beauty have a matte finish. Use a little product and, after drying, check that the colour is evenly distributed. How a lipstick wears depends on the formula, amount applied and what you do while wearing it.

Interested in a lighter tint that remains on the lips? Our guide to lip stain and how it differs from lipstick explains the differences between these product types.

Applying liquid lipstick in 6 steps

Have your lipstick, a mirror and a tissue ready. Lip liner is optional. A clean lip brush can help fill small areas precisely; a cotton bud with suitable lip makeup remover helps correct mistakes outside the outline.

1. Start with clean lips

Remove any previous lip colour. If you use lip balm beforehand, let it sit briefly and blot away the excess. Your lips do not need to be dried out, but a thick, slippery layer of balm makes controlled lipstick application harder.

You do not need to exfoliate before every lip look. Do not pull at loose flakes. If your lips already feel sore or irritated, postpone the matte look and choose comfortable lip care first.

2. Optionally outline with lip liner

For an extra guide along the edge, apply a thin line of lip liner first. Blend the inner edge slightly to soften the transition to lipstick. A similar shade keeps the colour difference small.

For more help with outlining or shade selection, see our guide to applying and pairing lip liner. Without liner, you can follow your natural lip line directly with the lipstick.

3. Pick up a small amount on the applicator

Check the amount of product on the applicator before you start. If there is a lot, carefully wipe the excess against the opening. Start with less than you think you need: adding a little locally is easier than making a thick layer even again.

4. Spread one thin layer

Start in the centre of your lower lip and work gently towards the corners. Then follow your upper lip from the Cupid's bow outwards. Keep your mouth relaxed and use small movements along the edge. This makes it easier to see where you have already applied colour.

Spread the product while it is still liquid. Avoid repeatedly going back and forth over an area that has started drying. Check the corners too, without allowing much extra lipstick to collect there.

5. Let the colour dry undisturbed

Follow the instructions on the packaging or product page. Do not rub your lips together while the lipstick dries, as this can move the layer. Wait until it has dried before eating, drinking or adding another layer.

There is no fixed drying time for every liquid lipstick. The formula and thickness of the layer play a part. Assess the finish before continuing.

6. Touch up only where needed

Look at your lips from the front and from slightly further away. If a small area lacks colour, add a minimal amount there and let it dry again. A full second layer is optional.

Has lipstick gone outside your lip line? Remove the mistake locally with a cotton bud and remover suitable for lip makeup. Blot the area dry before redrawing the edge.

What should you do about patches, edges or a layer that is too thick?

Do not immediately add more colour everywhere. First identify which part of the lip look you want to improve.

What do you see?	What can you try?
A thick or uneven layer	Do not keep adding layers. Remove the lipstick and start again with less product.
A small area without colour	Let the rest dry and carefully fill in just that area.
A harsh transition at the lip liner	Blend the inside of the liner before applying lipstick, or choose less colour contrast.
Colour outside the lip outline	Clean the edge locally and redraw it with a little product.
Flakes stand out more	Do not try to cover them with more lipstick. Gently remove the colour and prioritise comfort.

How do you touch up matte lipstick after eating or drinking?

Gently blot your lips clean and touch up only the faded area. First check whether the existing layer is still even. If colour has mainly disappeared from the centre, apply a little lipstick there and let it dry.

If the layer feels thick or you see several uneven edges, starting again is often easier. Remove the lipstick with a suitable remover, clean your lips and apply one thin layer again. Carry a mirror so you do not add colour over your whole lip by feel alone.

A matte finish alone does not indicate a fixed wear time or how resistant a product is to eating and drinking. Check your lip look whenever you want to touch up.

Can you wear lip oil or lip gloss over matte lipstick?

You can try it, but the finish will become glossier. Let the lipstick dry first, then start with a little lip oil or gloss in the centre. Decide how much shine you want to add afterwards.

An extra product can also change how the underlying colour wears or moves. Do not assume the combination will stay in place in the same way as the matte lipstick alone. To keep the matte finish, leave out the glossy layer.

Read what lip oil is and how it differs from lip gloss and lip balm if you are unsure about the finish. For a lip look with fewer steps, you can also combine just lip liner and lip oil.

How do you remove liquid lipstick?

Use a remover suitable for lip makeup and follow its instructions. Allow the stated time for the remover to loosen the colour, then wipe it away gently. There is no need to scrub hard or pull.

If colour remains, repeat gently according to the remover's instructions. Clean away residue and, if needed, apply a conditioning lip product that feels comfortable.

Choosing a matte lip colour to start with

First choose a colour you would like to wear. The By Dash Beauty collection includes, for example:

Treat product photos as a colour guide. Your natural lip colour, lighting, screen settings and amount of product affect the result. Use the same application steps to try different shades gradually.

Frequently asked questions about liquid lipstick

Do you need lip liner with liquid lipstick?

No. Lip liner can help define the outline beforehand, but you can also apply lipstick directly along your natural lip line. Choose what works comfortably for you.

Should you use lip balm under matte lipstick?

It is optional. If you use balm as preparation, let it sit briefly and blot away the excess. Do not apply lipstick directly over a thick, slippery layer.

How many layers of liquid lipstick do you need?

Start with one thin, even layer. Assess the coverage after drying and add a little only where needed. Always follow your product's instructions.

Why does my matte lipstick look patchy?

An uneven amount, slippery base or rubbing during drying can make distribution harder. Try less product on clean lips and leave the layer alone as it dries. If the colour remains uneven, remove the layer before starting again.

Can you blend liquid lipstick with your fingers?

For some looks, you can do so while it is still liquid, but a matte formula may start drying quickly. For an even, defined lip look, the applicator or a clean lip brush gives more control. Do not rub a layer that has already partly dried.

Your next matte lip look starts with a thin layer. Explore the Liquid Matte Lipstick collection and choose a colour to try. Start small, let the colour dry and touch up only where needed.