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How to Achieve Luscious, Plump Lips: Expert Makeup Guide

Whether day or night, a plump, sexy pout boosts confidence. Even with naturally thin lips, these proven steps create the illusion of fuller, luscious lips.

1. Prep for Flawless Lips

Beauty expert Olivier Échaudemaison warns that chapped lips are a major makeup mistake, especially under lipstick, as they hide the color and cause clumping. Treat your lips right for better adhesion and a smooth finish.

Apply a nourishing lip balm every night before bed. In the morning, before lipstick, reapply balm and gently massage the lip contours with a soft toothbrush to boost circulation and add subtle swell.

2. Use Pencil for Added Volume

Start with a neutral lip pencil, outlining 2 mm beyond your natural lip line. Then, switch to a pencil matching your lipstick shade (to avoid a garish look), fill the space between your lips and the outline, and lightly apply over the entire mouth for superior lipstick longevity.

3. Select Lipstick to Enhance

Steer clear of dark shades that slim the lips. Opt for vibrant, fresh hues like apricot, fuchsia, or bright red.

Using a brush, apply evenly over the penciled surface.

4. Finish with Gloss for Glamour

Gloss is the ultimate trick for a luscious effect, thanks to its light-reflecting shine.

For a natural daytime glow, dab on the lower lip only.

For a sultry evening vamp look, apply all over—a subtly glittery formula amplifies the plumpness.