Beginners Guide to Different Types of Lipsticks
Imagine this: You're standing in the lipstick aisle of your favorite makeup store and with so many choices, you're still stuck thinking “What are all these different types of lipsticks?" or worse, "What color lipstick should I choose?"
The variety of lipstick finishes, undertones, and consistency can make your makeup shopping trip seem more like a stressful chore than a fun experience, especially for beginners. But here's the thing: It doesn't need to be so hard.
We have created this guide to familiarize you with the different types of lipsticks for beginners you can choose from and to help you decide which shade will work best for your skin tone.
What Different Types of Lipsticks are There?
1. Sheer Lipsticks
The sheer lipstick is a classic lipstick formula perfect for everyday wear.
Since sheer lipsticks have a higher oil content than other kinds, they are less likely to dry out. Some brands even offer moisturizing sheer lipsticks to keep your lips supple and hydrated. You may, however, have to apply it more often due to this formulation.
The sheer lipstick looks good with any look, whether it's daytime or nighttime.
2. Matte Lipsticks
A matte lipstick gives you intense pigmentation and long-lasting wear. With matte lipsticks, you are assured of a smooth and sultry finish and a long-lasting and smudge-proof color that classic lipsticks cannot offer. These lipsticks won't fade from food, drink, or even smooching.
However, this type of lipstick usually contains very little oil, so if you don't prep your lips properly, they may get dry after putting it on.
Read about the only long lasting matte lipstick you need in summers.
3. Creamy Lipsticks
Lipsticks with a creamy finish have more wax content and offer a moisturizing finish that feels super comfortable on the lips. The texture of this lipstick type is neither glossy nor completely matte, creating a soft effect when applied.
Creme lipsticks are suitable for both daytime and nighttime makeup, adding a subtle element of glamour to any look. Creamy lipsticks are timeless and elegant, synonymous with vintage style. Therefore, if you are a classic at heart — and also like to wear makeup! — go for these.
4. Lip Tints or Stains
With lip tint, your lips are infused with a natural wash of color that lasts throughout the day; leaving them irresistible. They are quite trendy nowadays, and women love them.
The best part is that you can use them on your lips as well as your cheeks to add a touch of color to them. Lip tints lipsticks come in a variety of pigments and do not need to be touched up throughout the day.
5. Glossy Lipsticks
Gloss lipsticks are the way to go if you want a complete glam look. This type of lipstick is high in shine, so you will be left with a luminous look as well as fuller-looking lips. With a semi-sheer finish and low to medium coverage, they work well with full-face makeup.
Additionally, lip gloss and glossy lipstick contain extremely moisturizing formulas that will save your day (and your makeup look) if you suffer from dry lips.
6. Lip Liners
A lip liner is one of the finest types of lipstick you can use to give your lips a perfectly defined outline. The most significant step before applying your lipstick is to apply lip liner. This prevents the lipstick from bleeding or feathering, making it a dream for lovers of dark lipstick.
People with thin lips can also use lip liners to add some volume to their lips. If you're thinking of buying lipstick for yourself, don't forget to get a lip liner as well.
Read about tips for using lipstick for thin lips.
7. Liquid Lipsticks
Another among the most fashionable types of lipstick is liquid lipstick, which comes in a tube and has a liquid formula. Lipsticks of this type come in varying formulas — matte, velvety, creamy, even glossy.
Applying liquid lipsticks with precision is quite simple, thanks to their doe-foot applicators. Take your liquid lipstick set and apply the color of 'selfie perfect' to your lips when you're in the mood for some serious lip definition.
Read why comfort is most important ingredient in matte liquid lipsticks.
8. Frosted Lipsticks
During the 90s, frosted lipsticks were a must-have on red carpets and runways alike.
Light refracts off of these lipsticks, making them shimmer, and they also make your lips appear fuller and plumper. Additionally, some of these lipsticks have tiny flecks of shimmer or glitter that give your lips a molten metal appearance. Just remember to put on some lip moisturizer before putting on these lipsticks, since they can get dry and crack your lips.
What Shade of Lipstick Should You Choose? Tips to Choose Lipstick Colour
Although there's no formula to finding the perfect lipstick shade other than trying several to select one, we have one close to perfect -- the undertone match.
You can test out your undertone by swatching a bunch of shades of one color on the inside of your arm, and observing how the different undertones look against your skin.
- For warm tones: Those with warm and yellow undertones should look for complementary lipstick shades: orangey-reds, brick-reds, and terra-cottas will suit their skin.
- For blue or pink tones: It is best to wear lipsticks with a blue-ish or purple undertone to compliment cool skin tones with blue or pink undertones. Choose a vibrant cherry red that veers more toward blue than orange; a berry shade, such as cranberry; or a deep plum.
- For neutral tones: A neutral undertone works with a variety of shades. In case you are unsure of your undertones or have neutral-toned skin, try mauve shades for medium skin, pinky hues for fair skin, or berry colors for darker skin.
Learn about 8 red lipstick shades every lipstick lover must own.
The Bottom Line
Adding lipstick to your makeup is a quick and simple way to elevate your whole look, whether you’re trying to go glam or choosing the no-makeup look. However, in today's world of lipsticks, there are so many types available that it is easy to get overwhelmed by the paradox of choice.
We hope this guide with lipstick tips for beginners familiarizes you with the varieties available and educates you on how to choose the best lipstick for you!
Also read about how to find the perfect shade of lipstick for every skin tone.
Let us know your experience in the comment section below. Or if you’ve any questions, ask away!
