How to Apply Matte Lipstick Like a Total Pro

If you’re anything like me, applying lipstick feels like it should be the easiest step in a makeup routine, but it ends up being one of my biggest struggles to achieve a stunning, even pout. And when it comes to matte lipstick, it can often feel even more difficult, as without proper prep the finish can show any and every crease, dry patch, and peeling spot on your lips.

This all goes to say that I’ve had a hard time applying matte lipstick, but a better experience is possible with the right method. We tapped four expert makeup artists to get the ins and outs of applying a matte lip, including how to prepare the lips, how to make sure the product goes on perfectly, and of course, how to make sure you’re choosing the right lip color.

Meet the Expert

• Alexa Persico is a makeup artist and founder of her namesake brand, Alexa Persico Cosmetics.
• Judi Gabbay is a celebrity makeup artist located in New York City whose clients include Becca Tilley and Jennifer Aydin.
• Jacqueline Fraioli is a makeup artist based in the Tri-State area, known for her masterclasses and work on Adrienne Bailon.
• Dakota Alexandra is a makeup artist and content creator who shares tutorials with her followers.

Ahead, our experts share exactly how to apply matte lipstick like a pro.

What Makes Matte Lipstick Unique?

To state the (semi) obvious, matte lipstick is… well, matte. Lacking a glossed finish, “matte lipsticks are usually highly pigmented and shine-free,” says makeup artist and creator Dakota Alexandra. “Matte lipsticks come in different formulas such as liquid, pressed in a palette, or in a classic lipstick tube.”

Matte lipsticks do not reflect light the way a satin or glossed finish would, and as a result, they often have a more monotone, saturated, and uniform look on the lip. Makeup artist Alexa Persico notes, “All lipsticks have a combination of oil, wax, and pigmentation. A matte lipstick has less oil and moisture than other lipstick types and will not give off any ‘sheen’ on the lips like a satin or sheer would.”

Keeping the lips hydrated is an important preparation step if you’re reaching for a matte lipstick. “A sheer or satin lipstick may have a sheen and stay emollient,” notes celebrity makeup artist Judi Gabbay, “whereas a matte lipstick would feel drier on lips.”

And what makes matte different than a satin or sheer lip? Simply put, it’s a combination of all of the above.

“When it comes to a matte lipstick vs. a satin finish lipstick, satin tends to be a little creamer then matte and has some shine added to the formula,” makeup artist Jacqueline Fraioli explains. “Satin finish lipstick is not as drying as a matte formula. Sheer lipstick has much more luster and shine, almost giving a glossy wash of color. Sheer lipstick would pretty much be the exact opposite of a matte lippie.”

How To Apply Matte Lipstick

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Prep The Lips

If you’ve decided to use a brush, you’ll want to quite literally paint the product onto your lips. “I always like to use a lip brush to get those crispy lines because it’s usually more precise than the provided applicator or lipstick tube,” Alexandra says.

If you want to go straight from the tube but still are interested in using a makeup brush, Persico recommends dipping the brush carefully into the tube and applying the color on the lips. For a liquid matte lip, it’s important to work quickly, as the product can often dry quickly and make application difficult.

For a matte lip straight from the tube, Fraioli recommends direct application: “If you’re using a regular matte lipstick, you can apply straight from the applicator and blot your lips together.” Gabbay adds that she likes to set her matte lip with a little translucent setting powder to ensure a long lasting color.

“Regardless of the application method, one even coat is all you need,” Persico emphasizes. “Remember with matte lipsticks, a little goes a long way.”

We Tested the Most Popular Matte Lipsticks—These 8 Were the Very Best