Achieving the perfect matte lipstick look can be tricky, as the formula can sometimes look cakey and enhance dryness. However, two founders of Black-owned beauty brands have shared their secrets for achieving a smooth and long-lasting matte finish.

First, choose a high-quality matte formula with a smooth and velvety finish. Next, exfoliate your lips with a scrub or a hot towel to remove dead skin cells. Apply a small amount of lip balm for hydration and moisture, wiping off any excess oil before applying the lipstick. Use a lip liner to keep the matte lipstick in place and prevent bleeding. When applying the lipstick, start from the middle of your cupid’s bow and move smoothly to the corner of your mouth, repeating the same steps on the other side of the top lip and on the bottom lip. Be sure to stay inside the lines of your lip liner, and for liquid matte lipstick, remove any excess product from the applicator brush before application. With these tips, you can achieve a perfect matte lipstick look that lasts all day and enhances your natural beauty.

Step two is all about prepping your lips to ensure a smooth application. Butler recommends removing dead skin cells by using a lip scrub, such as The Lip Bar’s Rockstar Sugar Scrub, or wiping your lips with a hot towel. This will effectively remove any dry, flaky skin from your lips.

Step three is to apply lip balm. Butler suggests applying a small amount of lip balm to your lips, allowing it to sit for a few minutes to moisturize your lips, and then wiping off any excess oil before applying your matte lipstick. However, if you need your lipstick to last all day or if you’re looking for a smudge-proof option, Butler advises skipping the lip balm and using a comfortable liquid matte lipstick instead.

Step four is to use lip liner. Sheriff-Kendricks emphasizes the importance of using a lip liner to keep your matte lipstick in place and prevent it from bleeding past the lip line. Whether you match your lip liner to your lipstick color or use a richer tone to create an ombré effect, both techniques work well to create a flawless matte lip look.

Finally, step five is to apply your matte lipstick. For tube lipstick, both experts recommend starting in the middle of your cupid’s bow on the top lip and moving smoothly to the corner of your mouth. Repeat this step on the other side of the top lip and then follow the same pattern on your bottom lip. If you’re using a liquid matte with an applicator brush, make sure to remove any excess lipstick from the tip before applying even strokes, starting in the center of your lip for easy distribution.

Remember to stay within the lines of your lip liner and give yourself an air kiss in the mirror before heading out to show off your matte lip look.