Different Types of lipstick

There are many choices in the makeup world, but lipstick is often chosen first. A small swipe is used, and a big change is usually felt. For this reason, the types of lipstick are often searched before a purchase is made.

A wide range of finishes and formulas is offered today. Some lipsticks are made for strong color. Some lipsticks are made for comfort and shine. Some lipsticks are made for long wear that can stay for hours.

A better match can be found when the different types of lipstick are understood. Better results can be achieved, and money can be saved because the right product can be chosen faster.

In this guide, the most common and useful types of lipstick will be explained in very simple words. Easy tips will be shared so the best choice can be made for school, work, parties, and daily life.

Why lipstick types matter

A lipstick is not only chosen by color. The feel on the lips is also decided by the type. A creamy lipstick can be felt soft, while a matte lipstick can be felt dry.

The wear time is also decided by the type. A lip stain can stay longer than a glossy lipstick. A liquid lipstick can stay longer than a sheer lipstick.

The look is also changed by the type. A shiny look can be given by gloss. A smooth velvet look can be given by matte. A natural look can be given by tinted balm.

The care needs are also changed by the type. Some formulas are made with more oils and can feel gentle. Some formulas are made to lock color and can feel tight if the lips are dry.

Basic parts of a lipstick formula

Waxes are often used so shape can be kept. Oils are often used so glide can be given. Pigments are used so color can be shown.

Some formulas are made with more wax. A firmer stick is often created, and a crisp edge can be made. Some formulas are made with more oils. A softer and shinier finish is often created.

Some formulas are made with film formers. A thin layer can be formed, and longer wear can be supported. Some formulas are made with humectants. Water holding comfort can be supported.

Fragrance can be added, but sensitive lips can be bothered in some people. A fragrance free option can be preferred if irritation is often felt.

Classic bullet lipstick

This is the most well known lipstick type. A solid stick is stored in a tube, and it is twisted up when it is needed. Many drugstore and luxury brands are sold in this shape.

A clean and quick application is usually allowed. A mirror can be used, but the swipe can be done fast even without much practice.

Many finishes are offered in the bullet form. Matte, satin, and creamy versions are usually found. For this reason, this type is often suggested for beginners.

A cap should be closed firmly so the bullet can be protected. Heat should be avoided because melting can be caused.

Matte lipstick

A flat and non shiny finish is provided by matte lipstick. Bold color is usually given, and the lips can look smooth like velvet.

A strong pigment level is often used in matte formulas. Because of this, fewer swipes can be needed. A sharp lip shape can also be shown easily.

Dryness can be felt more with matte lipstick. A lip balm can be used before application, and extra balm can be blotted away so sliding can be avoided.

A matte lipstick can be chosen for events where photos are taken. A shine free look is often preferred in bright lighting.

Cream lipstick

A soft and buttery feel is usually provided by cream lipstick. A comfortable wear is often enjoyed, and the lips can be made to look fuller.

More oils and emollients are often used in this formula. Because of that, the lips can be kept feeling smooth. Dry and chapped lips can be made to look better.

The wear time can be shorter than matte. Reapplication can be needed after eating. A tissue blot can be used to reduce transfer.

A cream lipstick can be chosen for daily use. A fresh and friendly look is often created.

Satin lipstick

A satin finish is often described as a middle point. Some shine is shown, but a glossy look is not created. A smooth and polished finish is usually seen.

Satin lipstick is often chosen when comfort and color are both wanted. A balanced look can be achieved without too much dryness.

The lips can be prepared quickly for satin. A light balm can be used and a gentle exfoliation can be done before.

Satin lipstick can be worn in offices and classrooms easily. A neat look is usually kept without being too bold.

Sheer lipstick

A light and see through color is given by sheer lipstick. The natural lip color is still seen under it. A soft tint is usually created.

This type is often chosen when a natural look is wanted. A no makeup makeup style can be supported, and quick touchups can be done.

The pigment is often lower, so less staining is caused. Because of this, the color can fade gently instead of fading in patches.

A sheer lipstick can be carried in a bag. A mirror can be skipped because the finish is forgiving.

Glossy lipstick

A shiny and wet look is provided by glossy lipstick. The lips can look plump, and light can be reflected strongly.

Glossy formulas are often made with more oils. Comfort can be felt, but stickiness can also be felt in some products.

Hair can be stuck to the lips in windy weather. This small problem is commonly faced, so a less sticky formula can be preferred.

Glossy lipstick can be used for parties and fun outings. A bright and youthful look is often created.

Liquid lipstick

A liquid lipstick is packed in a tube, and a wand is used for application. A liquid layer is spread, and then a set finish is formed.

Many liquid lipsticks are made to dry down to matte. A long wear film can be created. Transfer can be reduced compared to creamy bullets.

Dryness can be felt if the lips are not prepared. A thin layer is usually recommended. Too much product can feel heavy and can crack.

A liquid lipstick can be chosen for long days. A strong color can be kept through meetings and travel.

Soft matte liquid lipstick

A softer version of liquid matte is also sold. A blurred and airy look is often given. The finish can look like soft focus.

Less tightness can be felt than classic liquid matte. A more flexible film is often created, so cracks can be reduced.

A gentle and even layer can be built. Extra layers can be added slowly so patchiness can be avoided.

This type can be chosen when a matte look is wanted but comfort is also wanted. A balanced result can be achieved.

Mousse lipstick

A whipped texture is often used in mousse lipstick. A light feel is often provided, and a smooth spread can be achieved.

A soft matte or satin look is usually created. The lips can be blurred, and small lines can be softened in appearance.

Because of the soft texture, a clean lip line can be harder for beginners. A lip liner can be used first so the border can be kept tidy.

Mousse lipstick can be used for casual days. A soft and modern finish is often produced.

Lip gloss

Lip gloss is sometimes counted as a lipstick type because color can be included. A high shine finish is the main feature.

Gloss can be worn alone. It can also be layered on top of another lipstick. Extra shine can be added and the color can be refreshed.

Some glosses are clear, and some glosses are tinted. Some glosses are made with shimmer. Many options are offered for different looks.

A gloss can be chosen when a quick and simple option is needed. A lively look can be created in seconds.

Lip stain

A lip stain is designed to color the lips for a long time. A watery or gel like formula is often used. The pigment can be absorbed into the top layer of the lips.

A natural and bitten lip look is often created. The color can stay even after drinks are taken. Some stains can stay after meals too.

Dry lips can be made worse by some stains. A balm can be used on top after the stain is set. Comfort can be improved while the color is kept.

A lip stain can be chosen for hot weather. Less smudging can be seen, and less transfer can be caused.

Tint and lip oil

A lip tint is usually lighter than a strong stain. A soft wash of color is given, and a fresh look is created.

A lip oil is often made with shiny oils and a little tint. Care and color can be combined. A smooth feel can be provided.

These options are often chosen for daily wear. A simple look can be kept, and dryness can be reduced.

A lip oil can be used at night too. A soft and healthy lip feel can be supported by regular use.

Tinted lip balm

A tinted balm is made mainly for comfort. A little color is added so the lips can look alive without looking heavy.

This type is often chosen by beginners and by people who dislike strong makeup. A quick swipe can be used, and mistakes are not easily noticed.

Dry lips can be helped by tinted balm. The lips can be protected from cracking, especially in winter.

A tinted balm can be used for school and daily errands. A clean and gentle style can be supported.

Lip crayon

A lip crayon looks like a thick pencil. A twist up or sharpenable body is often used. A precise edge can be achieved more easily than with some bullets.

Many finishes are offered in crayons. Matte crayons and creamy crayons are commonly sold. A smooth line can be drawn and then filled in.

A crayon can be used as lipstick and as liner together. Time can be saved because two steps can be combined.

A lip crayon can be carried easily. Quick touchups can be done during the day.

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Lip pencil and lip liner

A lip liner is used to shape the lips. The edge can be made neat, and lipstick can be stopped from bleeding.

A liner can be used alone as a full lip color. A matte look can be created, and long wear can be supported.

A liner can be matched to the lipstick shade. It can also be chosen slightly darker so the lips can look bigger.

This step can be helpful when many types of lipstick are tested. A cleaner finish can be achieved with less effort.

Powder lipstick

A powder lipstick is less common but it is loved by some people. A dry and soft finish can be created, and a light feel can be offered.

The pigment is often placed by a special applicator. A blurred look can be achieved, and a gentle gradient can be made.

A learning curve can be faced at first. A little practice can be needed so the powder can be spread evenly.

Powder lipstick can be chosen for a soft and modern look. A unique finish can be enjoyed.

Lip lacquer

A lip lacquer is often described as a high shine liquid color. Strong pigment is often combined with gloss like shine.

A smooth and glassy look can be created. The lips can look very bold, and the color can look rich.

Stickiness can be felt in some lacquers. Hair sticking can be faced, so careful use can be needed outdoors.

A lip lacquer can be chosen for parties. A dramatic look can be made with one product.

Metallic lipstick

A metallic finish is created when shine particles are added to the color. A reflective look is created, and the lips can look bright.

This type is often used in fashion makeup and festive events. Gold, bronze, and silver tones are commonly seen.

Lip lines can be highlighted by metallic finishes. For this reason, lip smoothing steps can be used before. A gentle exfoliation can be done and balm can be applied.

Metallic lipstick can be used as a top layer too. A normal lipstick can be turned into a special look with a light metallic layer.

Shimmer lipstick

Shimmer lipstick is softer than metallic. Small sparkles are added, but a foil look is not usually created. A gentle glow is provided.

This type can be worn more easily in daily life. The sparkle can look cute and playful, especially in sunlight.

Too much shimmer can settle in lines if the lips are dry. A smooth base can be created with balm and gentle care.

Shimmer can be chosen for celebrations. A bright smile can be highlighted with a simple change.

Plumping lipstick and plumping gloss

Plumping products are made to make the lips look fuller. A mild tingling feeling can be caused by certain ingredients.

A temporary fuller look can be created. The shine can be boosted, and the lips can look smoother for a short time.

Sensitivity can be felt by some people. A patch test can be done first, and strong burning should not be accepted.

Plumping options can be used for photos and events. A fuller look can be achieved without extra steps.

Long wear and transfer resistant lipstick

Long wear lipstick is made to stay for hours. A film forming formula is often used so the pigment can be locked in place.

Transfer resistance can be provided, so fewer marks can be left on cups and masks. A more stable color can be kept through the day.

Removal can be harder. An oil based remover can be used, and gentle wiping can be done so irritation can be avoided.

This type can be chosen for weddings and long shifts. Less touchup time can be needed.

Waterproof and smudge resistant lipstick

Some products are sold as waterproof or smudge resistant. A stronger hold is usually offered, especially in humid weather.

A more stubborn formula is often used, so dryness can be felt in some cases. Lip preparation can be important.

A careful application can be needed because mistakes can be harder to fix. A small brush can be used for a neat edge.

This type can be chosen for rainy days and hot climates. A cleaner look can be kept longer.

Color changing lipstick

A color changing lipstick is made to react with lip moisture and warmth. A shade shift is seen after application.

A fun surprise can be enjoyed because the final color can look different on each person. A personal pink tone is often formed.

The shade range can be limited. Most color changing products end in a pink family tone.

This type can be chosen for playful makeup days. A simple and fun product can be enjoyed by beginners.

Nude lipstick

Nude lipstick is not one formula. A nude shade is meant. The color is close to skin tone and to natural lip color.

Many nude shades are offered, but a good match should be chosen. A nude that is too pale can look chalky on some skin tones.

A nude lipstick can be used with bold eye makeup. Balance can be created, and the face can look polished.

Nude lipstick can be chosen for daily wear. A calm and clean look can be supported.

Bold and bright lipstick

Bold shades like red, berry, and deep plum are often called statement lipstick. A strong and confident look can be created.

A cleaner lip line is often needed with bold colors. A liner can be used, and a small brush can be used for extra control.

Teeth can be stained by strong colors. A small tissue trick can be used by placing tissue between lips and pressing gently so extra product can be removed.

Bold lipstick can be worn for parties and special events. A simple outfit can be lifted with one strong lip shade.

How the best lipstick type can be chosen?

First, the lip condition should be checked. If dryness is present, a creamy lipstick, satin lipstick, or tinted balm can be preferred. If the lips are smooth, matte and liquid matte can be tried more easily.

Second, the plan for the day should be considered. If eating and drinking are expected, a lip stain or long wear liquid lipstick can be preferred. If comfort is most important, balm and gloss can be chosen.

Third, the desired look should be selected. A soft look can be created with sheer and satin. A bold look can be created with matte and lacquer. A playful look can be created with shimmer and metallic.

Fourth, the skill level should be respected. A tinted balm and sheer lipstick can be used with less practice. A liquid lipstick can be learned with time, and better control can be gained.

Easy steps for better lipstick application

A smooth base should be prepared. Dead skin can be removed gently with a soft cloth. Harsh scrubbing should be avoided because irritation can be caused.

A light balm can be applied if dryness is present. Extra balm should be blotted so slipping can be reduced, especially before matte products.

A lip liner can be used if a sharp edge is wanted. The corners and cupid bow can be shaped, and the lipstick can be kept inside the line.

A thin first layer should be applied, then a second layer can be added if needed. Better control can be achieved, and clumps can be avoided.

Common lipstick problems and simple fixes

If cracking is seen in matte lipstick, more lip prep should be used. A thinner layer should be applied. A softer matte formula can be chosen.

If bleeding is seen around the edges, a liner should be used. A little face powder can be tapped around the lip border so movement can be reduced.

If lipstick is transferred too much, blotting should be done after application. A longer wear formula can be chosen. A setting product can be tested if it is available.

If the shade looks wrong, the undertone should be checked. A warm nude or cool nude can be tried. A simple test in daylight can be used before buying.

Lipstick care and storage

Caps should be closed tightly. Dust and germs can be reduced, and drying can be prevented.

Extreme heat should be avoided. Melting can be caused and the texture can be damaged. A cool and dry place should be used.

Sharing lipstick should be avoided for hygiene. Germs can be spread easily. If sharing is needed, a clean lip brush should be used.

Old lipstick should be replaced if smell and texture are changed. Safety should be prioritized, and irritation should be avoided.

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