Mask off, lippy on

To celebrate National Lipstick Day on 29th July and the much-anticipated news that we are starting to see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel where the wearing of masks and face coverings can be reduced, M·A·C Senior Pro Artist Amy Lowry has spilled her secrets on how to create the perfect lip. It is fair to say it’s been a while since we have slicked on some Ruby Woo and fear our application skills are a little rusty. So, whether like us, you are so ready to reinstate your go-to statement shade or want to keep lips soft and hydrated, keep reading for a refresh on how to achieve the perfect pout.

M.A.C Senior Pro Artist Amy Lowry

PREPARATION

Amy says preparation is everything when it comes to the perfect lip and having smooth, hydrated lips will add to any lipstick’s staying power. Her go to products to ace the prep phase are M·A·C’s Lip Scrubtions, a sugar-based exfoliator that gently buffs away dry and flaky skin and the beauty bag must-have Prep + Prime Lip.

Scrubtions are gentle in removing any dry skin on the lip and has shea butter to smooth and hydrate; plus, they are available in various fruity scents - each smelling totally divine! Once Amy has given the lip a gentle exfoliation, she uses the Prep + Prime Lip which reduces lipstick feathering and provides immediate hydration making it the perfect base under any lipstick.

M.A.C ScrubtionsM.A.C Prep + Prime Lip

AMY’S APPLICATION TIPS

1. For a perfect lip application, lip pencils and a good lip brush are always useful

M.A.C Spice Lip Pencil

2. When applying a red lipstick, use a matching red lip liner all over the lip to act as a base - this will help the colour longevity

M.A.C Ruby Woo Matte Lipstick on Model

3. If red or a dark shade is your thing, try using the M·A·C 316 lip brush which will help create a smooth, clean application. Pair your Ruby Woo Matte Lipstick with the Ruby Woo Lip Pencil for this dramatic red lip look

M.A.C 316 Lip Brush

4. For a nude lipstick application, choose a lip liner that that is slightly darker than your chosen nude lipstick to give your lip some shape and add dimension to your look. Using Velvet Teddy Matte Lipstick with the Spice Lip Liner is a good pairing for this look

M.A.C Velvet Teddy Matte Lipstick on Model

MATTE VS. GLOSS

When applying a matte lipstick, Amy says “my best tip would be to use a 316 lip brush to get the lip edges nice and clean for a smooth application, using the brush helps to even out application of the lipstick.”

M.A.C Spice Lipgloss swatch

When applying a creamy lipstick, like Love Me Lipstick in Laissez-Faire, a pro tip is to apply your lip liner on the outer corners of the lip and apply the lipstick to just the centre of the lips. Creamy textures naturally spread and move so keeping it to the centre helps stop any lipstick bleeding.

M.A.C Laissez-Faire Lipstick on Model

LIP CARE

To keep lips in top shape and ready for all your lipstick needs, Amy suggests using M·A·C’s lip scrub twice a week as part of your skincare routine followed by lots of M·A·C Lip Conditioner, an emollient-based balm that conditions lips and locks in moisture. It’s also packed with sweet almond oil and shea butter for that luxurious hydrated feel.

Keep these tips in your back pocket and head to the M·A· C counter in-store at Elys Urban Beauty on the Ground Floor to pick up a new shade. From 29th – 31st July, to celebrate National Lipstick Day, M· A· C is offering a full-size lipstick for the price of a mini. Go on, treat yourself!