9 lipstick mistakes you're probably making and don't even know it

Lipstick does amazing things for your look. It draws attention to your lips when you speak and makes a statement in its own right. It's also uniquely creative and personal. But if you're not taking your application seriously, you're probably achieving less than quality results.
Lips, just like the rest of the face, need a focused approach to look healthy and sexy. Taking the time to treat them with tenderness will make your lipstick glide on easier and last longer. Check out these tips and boost your lip game.
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1. Scrub off flakes
When it comes to a kissable pout, texture is key, so lightly exfoliate your lips with a wet toothbrush or lip scrub before even thinking about color.
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2. Plump and moisturize
If your lips are dry or chapped, lipstick will settle into those areas. Even though you can buy hydrating lip glosses, your best bet is a treatment product without color that adds moisture first.
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3. Even out your base
You probably already own a good face or eye shadow primer, but what about a lip primer? Every surface, including your lips, will look better with a primer underneath. Tip: Lip primer also helps your lipstick last longer.
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4. Learn to line properly
In the '80s, lip liner was visible — and not particularly attractive. Avoid that distinct outline by lining just slightly outside and a bit inside your lips. Bonus: When your lipstick wears off, your lip liner will be less visible.
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5. Apply lipstick the right way
You're probably thinking, "There's a right way to apply it?" Actually, yes. Start in the center of your lower or upper lip and work outward. You'll avoid overapplying and have a more balanced look. A lining brush takes this approach to a whole new level, so consider adding that to your makeup routine.
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6. Stop ignoring your skin tone
No matter how hot a lip color looks on someone else, there's no guarantee it will work for you. Keep your undertones in mind. For instance, if your skin has yellow undertones, watch out for colors that skew blue.
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7. Reduce your gloss addiction
Lip gloss makes colors pop, but too much can leave you with a goopy grin. Use it sparingly for effect.
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8. Don't quit before you reach the finish line
See the job through to the end. If you're not setting your lipstick with translucent powder, then all your efforts will be for naught within minutes.
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9. Don't leave home without it
That sounds like an American Express commercial, but leaving lipstick on your vanity or bathroom drawer is the ultimate no-no. Touch-ups are a necessary evil, and you can't maintain your look if you leave your lipstick at home. Reapplying mid-day is also not negotiable.
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10. Forgetting lip balm
If you don't regularly use lip balm, it's easy for your lips to dry out, especially as the weather gets colder. It's best to let lip balm sink in before applying lipstick.
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