Matte vs. Metallic: How to Pick a Lipstick Finish

If you’re anything like us, lipstick is one of your absolute favorite makeup products. And there's good reason for that! With just about every color imaginable available, what’s not to love? While choosing the perfect color is a feat in and of itself, narrowing down the exact finish you should wear is a whole other process. From matte hot pinks to metallic berries, how’s a girl to choose? To help you pick the right lipstick finish for your look, below we lay out all the deets for two of our favorite lipstick finishes—metallic lipstick and matte lipstick—as well as how to apply them. Ready for a lip transformation? Keep reading, beauty babes!

MATTE LIPSTICK 101

Looking to make a bold statement with your makeup? Matte lipstick could be the way to go. Matte makeup has been trending for the last few years—and it shows no signs of slowing down. Matte lipstick gives off a sophisticated, grown-up air. It has a flat (a.k.a. non-shiny) finish that is seriously eye-catching.

When it comes to matte lippies, there’s no shortage of options. Have your pick from the L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature, Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro Matte Les Chocolats Scented Liquid Lipstick, L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Lipstick, and the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints/Lips Matte. These matte lipsticks come in a variety of alluring shades, ranging from neutral nudes to bright pinks and reds, so you can choose a color that perfectly suits your mood or outfit.  

METALLIC LIPSTICK 101

If you’re a fan of sparkly makeup, look no further than metallic lipstick. Metallic lipstick is super-glitzy, making it the perfect option for a night out on the town with your girlfriends. The shimmery quality of metallic lipstick also makes it a solid choice for the holiday season. Try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Crushed Foils Metallic Lipstick or the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints/Lips Metallic. We’re particularly fond of the shade Moon Lust from the latter line; it's rose gold-esque and so on trend.

HOW TO APPLY MATTE AND METALLIC LIPSTICKS

Whichever lipstick finish you choose, the application process will be the same. Since both of these finishes offer major color payoff, it’s a good idea to make sure that your lips are primed to perfection before you reach for a tube. Not sure what exactly that entails? Follow the steps below and you’ll be able to rock a gorgeous-looking pout.

STEP #1: USE A LIP SCRUB

Since matte and metallic lipsticks are very bold, they can sometimes draw attention to dryness and flakes. So, first pick up a lip scrub to exfoliate dead skin cells from the surface of your lips and help create a smooth base for your lipstick. We love the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Cocoa Scrub, which doubles as both a face and lip scrub.

STEP #2: MOISTURIZE YOUR LIPS

The same way you moisturize after cleansing and exfoliating your face, you should moisturize your lips after using a lip scrub. Reach for a hydrating lip conditioner or lip balm and apply it to your lips before moving on to the next step.

STEP #3: LINE YOUR LIPS

A statement lip look is all about crisp lines—and that means it’s time to break out the lip liner! If you’re going to be using a matte lipstick, then pick a matte lip liner, like the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner, in a similar shade. To pair metallic lipstick with lip liner, choose a neutral shade that’s close to your natural lip color. Try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner. Slightly (and we mean slightly!) over-line your lips to create the appearance of a fuller-looking pout.

STEP #4: FILL IN YOUR LIPS

Color, at last! Whichever lipstick finish you choose, just fill in your lips starting at your cupid’s bow and work your way out to the edges. If you’re using lipstick in a tube, consider applying it with a lip brush for a more precise application.

STEP #5: CONCEAL THE EDGES

To really make your matte or metallic pout stand out, line the edges of your lips with a matte concealer. This will also help conceal any imperfections if you didn’t manage to apply your lipstick perfectly, just make sure to blend out for a seamless finish!

Once you’ve found the lipstick finish for you, it’s time to determine your foundation match. Here’s How to Find the Right Type of Foundation for You.