Written by: Anindita Thakur

How to keep red lipstick from bleeding?

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“Red lipstick is the total diva, but that bleeding? OMG, WORST! But, don’t worry, girl, I am here with my secrets on ‘how to keep red lipstick from bleeding‘ – think perfect prep, pro application tips, and the holy grail. Let’s conquer that bleed together and rock that crimson pout with confidence!”

Luscious red lips, text "How to keep red lipstick from bleeding?"
How to keep red lipstick from bleeding?

Why does lipstick bleed?

Lipstick bleeding, or feathering, occurs when lipstick migrates outside your natural lip line. This is primarily caused by two factors:

  •  Collagen loss: Over time, collagen production decreases, leading to thinner, less plump lips with deeper creases. These crevices act as traps for lipstick, causing it to bleed.
  •  Dry, dehydrated skin: Dry, dehydrated skin on the lips can also contribute to wrinkles and cracks, creating an uneven surface for lipstick application.

What does lipstick bleeding look like?

Lipstick bleeding, also known as feathering, occurs when lipstick migrates outside your natural lip line. Here’s what it looks like:

  • Color migration: The lipstick appears to “bleed” or “feather” beyond the edges of your lips, creating a blurred or smudged effect.
  • Noticeable with brighter shades: This is more prominent with bold, bright, or dark lipstick colors.
  • Common with certain formulas: Glossy or balm-like lipsticks are more prone to bleeding due to their texture.

Lipstick bleeding can detract from your overall look, but fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent it and achieve a flawless, long-lasting lip color.

How to keep red lipstick from bleeding?

Lipstick bleeding can ruin any look. To prevent this, Bollywood makeup artist Harry Rajput shares five expert tips. These include using the right lip liner, prepping your lips with a primer, and applying lipstick correctly. 

Prep your lips

To prevent lipstick bleeding and ensure a flawless finish, proper lip preparation is key.

  • Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your lips to remove dead skin cells. This creates a smooth surface for even lipstick application and prevents feathering. For best results, use a lip scrub
  • Moisturize: Apply a generous layer of lip balm to hydrate and soften your lips. This helps prevent dryness and cracking, which can contribute to lipstick bleeding.

This simple step not only improves the appearance of your lipstick but also makes your lips look fuller and smoother.

Use concealer as a lip primer

Just like you use concealer to create a smooth base for your foundation, you can use it to prime your lips for flawless lipstick application.

  • Apply concealer: Gently apply a small amount of concealer to your lips with a makeup sponge or brush. Concealer fills in fine lines and imperfections on your lips, prevents feathering and creates a smooth base for even lipstick application. Also it intensifies the shade.
  • Apply lipstick: Once the concealer is set, apply your long-lasting lipstick as usual.

Define with a lip liner

Woman using red lip liner
Defining lips with a lip liner

Lip liner is a crucial tool in achieving long-lasting, flawless lipstick application. Here’s how to use it to prevent bleeding:

  • Define your lips: Outline the outer edges of your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade or choose a nude/peach shade for a subtle definition. This creates a barrier that prevents lipstick from feathering and helps define your lip shape.
  • Fill in your lips: Lightly fill in your entire lips with the lip liner. This creates a smooth base for your lipstick and helps prevent color from migrating into fine lines.

Blot your lipstick

Blotting your lipstick is a crucial but overlooked step. It minimizes the transfer of lipstick to your teeth and other surfaces, intensifies the color and prevents the lipstick from looking muddy or patchy and increases longevity. Here is the guide:

  • Apply lipstick: Apply one coat of lipstick using a lip brush for precise application.
  • Gently blot: Place a tissue between your lips and gently press them together. This removes excess product without disturbing the color.
  • Repeat: Apply a second coat of lipstick and blot again with a tissue.

Set your lipstick with translucent powder 

To ensure your lipstick stays in place and prevents feathering, use translucent powder to set your lip color. Setting powder, gives a long-lasting, smudge-proof, and professional matte finish that stay all day long.

  • Dust with powder: Gently dust a thin layer of translucent powder over your hued lips using a large, fluffy brush.
  •  Blot with tissue: Gently blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess powder.

Also Read: How to get lipstick off skin?

How to correct lipstick bleeding?

Women cleaning and  concealing lips and reapplying red lipstick
Correction of lipstick bleeding

Lipstick bleeding is a frustrating issue, but you can correct it with ease.

  • Clean up: Gently remove the excess lipstick that has bled beyond your lip line with a makeup wipe or a cotton swab dipped in a gentle makeup remover.
  • Conceal and correct: Apply a thin layer of concealer or foundation around the edges of your lips with a clean brush. Use a concealer with a yellow undertone for red lipsticks. Yellow undertone to counteract any redness. This step acts as a camouflage, covering the bleeding and creating a smooth, even base.
  • Redefine: Carefully reapply your lipstick using a lip brush for precise application. This allows you to redefine your lip shape and ensure a clean, even finish.

Red lipstick FAQs

How do I make my red lipstick last longer?

To maximize the staying power of your red lipstick, try this technique: After applying your lipstick, lightly dust your lips with a translucent powder. This sets the color, similar to how setting powder works for foundation. For an extra boost of color and even longer wear, apply another coat of lipstick over the powdered layer. This “powder and reapply” method significantly increases longevity.

How can I make my red lipstick less intense?

If your red lipstick is too bold, you can easily tone it down. Apply your lipstick as usual, then gently blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess product. Applying a clear lip gloss over the blotted lipstick will further dilute the color and create a softer, more subtle effect.

How do I prevent red lipstick from staining my lips?

Dry, chapped lips are more prone to staining because they absorb pigment more readily. Keeping your lips well-moisturized is crucial. Regular exfoliation with a gentle lip scrub, like a sugar scrub, helps remove dead skin cells and creates a smooth surface, reducing the likelihood of staining. Consistent lip balm application throughout the day is also essential.

How do I make my red lipstick kiss-proof?

Achieving a kiss-proof finish involves layering and blotting:
Apply your first layer of red lipstick.
Gently blot your lips with a tissue to remove excess product.
Apply a second layer of lipstick.
For extra staying power, you can lightly dust the tissue with translucent powder before blotting again. This adds another layer of sealant. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for even more intense color and longevity.

Final Word:

Alright, lipstick lovers, you’ve got the weapons to fight that pesky lip bleeding! Now go conquer the world (or at least your next Zoom call) with a flawless red lip. Don’t forget to share your best red lipstick tips in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!”

Anindita Thakur
Anindita Thakur

Anindita Thakur is a beauty writer covering perfume, cosmetics, hair care, and skin care. She holds a B.A. Hons in English, M.A. in English, M.A. in History, and a Certificate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Calcutta University. With robust credentials in writing and communications, Ms. Thakur provides engaging articles on beauty trends and tips. Her goal is to educate and inspire audiences on the best products and practices for skin, hair, makeup, and fragrance.

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