How to apply lipstick flawlessly?

Even if you've found the perfect longwear lipstick or liquid lipstick in the most gorgeous shade, applying lipstick perfectly can seem downright impossible (particularly if you're attempting a bold shade like red or trying a new lip colour for fall). One side might go on thicker than the other, making lips appear lopsided, or you could over-line your lips too much, making them appear unnatural.

But it is possible to always apply lipstick like a pro. Here are some tips and tricks for applying lipstick. These insider secrets will leave you with a perfect pout, every single time:

Exfoliate and hydrate lips

Never put lipstick on without properly prepping beforehand, or your lips may end up looking uneven, flakey, or patchy. "Exfoliate your lips first and then moisturise them" with lip balm or lip primer. These steps ensure that your lips don't have any dry spots that may flake off, and create the perfect canvas for lipstick with all-day staying power.

Colour correct as needed

It may seem impossible for colors to come through on dark lips, but Fennell has a simple solution. For dark lips, start with adding a lighter foundation powder to mute out the colour of your lips. Once the colour is muted, you can then apply any lipstick shade in a much more true-to-colour way.

Trace and fill lips with liner

Apply lip liner around your lips before you apply lipstick, and if you put lip liner all over your lips before lipstick (not just around the edges!) you can turn virtually any lipstick into a "longwear" formula. You can also finish with lip liner after lipstick to clean up the edges at the end and make the finish even more precise.

If you want a more muted lip, you can skip liner and apply the colour using your finger and then perfect it with concealer and a brush.

Layer on lipstick from the center outward

When putting on lipstick, place the lipstick in the middle of your lips and work outward. By concentrating your lipstick to the fullest part of your lips, you'll be able to control your application better and mitigate any mess-ups.

If you have trouble making your lipstick look even, try drawing an "X" on the cupid's bow with your lip liner.

This will help you get a well-defined cupid's bow, and also works as a guide to ensure that neither side ends up lopsided.

Use a lip brush for a precise line

All you really need for flawless application is a sharp lip pencil and pointed lipstick. Some people, however, may feel more comfortable applying lipstick with a lip brush, as it gives you a more precise and even application. Also, you could have your concealer and a flat brush on hand to clean up the line if you make a small mistake.

Blot and set your colour

Once your lips are perfectly coated and the formula is set, blot your lips at the end. Do this by gently squeezing lips together over a tissue or napkin to remove excess product and prevent slippage. Don't forget the corners! Then, use a translucent powder to set your lipstick. That prevents your lipstick from moving around all day.