The Best Lipstick Shades to Wear This Valentine's Day

Big date planned for Valentine’s Day? Going out with your best girlfriends instead? Either way, if you answered yes to one of these questions, this one’s for you. With February 14th right around the corner, it’s time to sort out your plans, pick the perfect outfit, and most importantly, figure out how you’re going to do your makeup—more specifically, your lipstick. After all, what better way to finish off a gorgeous makeup look than with a perfectly kissable pout? Whether you’re all about mystifying in matte lipstick or getting glam in metallic lipstick, there are plenty of options out there for you. Try one of our favorite cupid-approved lipsticks listed below—and get tips for applying your lip color like a pro.  

THE BEST LIPSTICK SHADES FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

No matter your skin tone or age, we’re certain you’ll fall in L-O-V-E this Valentine’s Day—if not with your date, then with your lipstick! Try one of the following lipstick options this February 14^th, then pucker up!

Valentine’s Day Lipstick Idea #1: Glossy Pink

The L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Dewy Petal is perfect if you want to rock a glossy lip this Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day Lipstick Idea #2: Metallic Plum

If you want a one-and-done approach to a shimmering lip and are interested in trying the vampy lip trend this winter, try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints/Lips Metallic in Smoldering Eclipse.

Valentine’s Day Lipstick Idea #3: Matte Fuchsia

Add a pop of bright color to your lips this Valentine’s Day with the L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature, Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick in I Represent or the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte Mandate.

Valentine’s Day Lipstick Idea #4: Nude liquid lipstick

For a celebrity-inspired pout, wear a nude liquid lipstick, like the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Ultra Matte Highly Pigmented Nude Lipstick in Full-Blown Fawn or the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Liquid Lipstick in Nudist.

Valentine’s Day Lipstick Idea #5: Classic red

If you’re not sure how to do your makeup on Valentine’s Day, a red lip is always a safe bet. Try the L'Oréal Paris Rouge Signature, Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick in I Achieve, I Am Worth It, or I Don’t. (Here’s Our Best Red Lipstick for Every Skin Tone for even more red lip suggestions.)

HOW TO APPLY LIPSTICK FOR THE PERFECT V-DAY POUT

Now that you have a better sense of what lip color you’d like to wear on Valentine’s Day, it’s time to turn your attention to lipstick application. For a perfectly kissable pout, follow our step-by-step lipstick application guide.

Step #1: Exfoliate like a pro

Before even picking up your lipstick, buff away any dead skin that may be on the surface of your lips. After all, there’s nothing like flakes and dryness to wreck a flawlessly smooth pout. To get the job done, apply the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Cocoa Scrub onto dry lips, then massage the face scrub over your lips using wet fingers. Once you’re done, rinse and pat dry before moving on to the next step.

Step #2: Apply lip balm

After exfoliating, swipe on your favorite lip balm to help moisturize your lips. Toss it in your purse in case you want to use it again mid-day!

Step #3: Use a lip primer

Next up, apply a lip primer to help create a smooth canvas for your lipstick. Primer can also help ensure your lipstick wears evenly throughout the day.

Step #4: Line your lips with lip liner

If you want to fake the appearance of a fuller-looking pout, reach for lip liner. Draw an ‘X’ on your top lip to define your cupid’s bow with the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner or L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner. Choose a shade that closely matches your lipstick choice.

Step #5: Apply your lipstick

How you’ll apply your lipstick will depend on the formula you choose. If you picked a bullet lipstick, you’re probably already a pro at application. If you went with a liquid lip, you may need to read up on how to apply liquid lipstick.

Step #6: Blot your lips

Before you go and rub your lips together, let us recommend you blot instead. When you rub your lips, you can disrupt your well-manicured lip look. Pat them instead to help keep everything in place. 

And there you have it! Now you see that taking your lips to the next level is easy, so go ahead and have some fun with your makeup. And Happy Valentine’s Day!

Next up: 5 Lip Hacks for a Pretty Valentine’s Day Pout