How do I get the perfect plump and glossy looking lips?
With many trends pointing to bigger and bolder lips, usually with a matt look, wearing lip gloss can seem out of date.
Applying lip gloss all over the lips can also result in lips that look oily and messy.
Yet when applied strategically, a good lip gloss can give your lips a more three-dimensional look that is refreshing and vivacious.
Mr Yoshitomo Takahashi, 34, who is based in Japan and one of 15 make-up artists in Dior's global Pro Team, gives tips on how to get the look right:
• Be strategic about where you apply your makeup
It is on trend to make the lips look bigger. But this does not mean that you should apply lip gloss all over your lips. Instead, apply highlighter lightly on the cupid's bow just above the upper lip. This makes the upper lip stand out more.
• Use a darker shade below the lip
An eyeshadow or a blush that is slightly darker than your skin tone can be applied under the middle of the bottom lip.
This helps to give the lips a more three-dimensional look.
• Use a lip plumper
Apply a light layer of sheer lip plumper on the entire lip. Look for one with moisturising ingredients that can keep lips healthy.
• Focus on the centre of the lips
Apply lip gloss from the centre of the lips, spreading it outwards. This brings the centre of the lips forward, adding to the visual dimension of the lips. Look for a gloss that has reflective qualities as it will reflect light and add to the plumping effect.
• Keep it neat
Lip gloss, being softer than lipstick, tends to bleed. Use a lipliner to line your lips to prevent the gloss from bleeding.
Here are some products that will help achieve the look:
1. Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss in Nude, $47, from Dior, available at all Dior counters
Get naturally plump-looking lips with this subtle gloss which gives the lips a watery sheen that does not appear oily. The formula also claims to deliver volume, shine and a non-sticky finish.
2. Versicolour lip colour in Energy Shot, $43, from MAC, available at all MAC counters
A fusion of a lip gloss and a stain, this formula promises to deliver long-lasting shine. It also contains emollient oils which the label claims help the colour to stay bright and lustrous without cracking or peeling.
3. Double Coloring Lips lipstick and gloss, $46, from Lunasol, available at all Lunasol counters
This double-sided tube contains a creamy liquid lipstick and a sheer, shimmery gloss. The formula includes ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter and avocado oil, which the brand claims will keep lips moisturised.
4. Rouge Coco Stylo glossy lipstick in Histoire, $49, from Chanel, available at all Chanel counters
With a soft, light texture that applies like a smooth gloss and the intense colour of a lipstick, this lip colour blends easily, allowing users to combine colours for a two-toned look. The formula also contains apple-seed extract and plant oils which will, apparently, nourish the lips.
