Many women would not dream of leaving the house without their lipstick. In fact, lip color has been a very important part of the glamour and fashion industry for as long as anyone can remember. It is an essential item in every makeup bag, and every makeup routine. It is the finishing touch to every look. The purpose of lipstick is to accentuate and add color to the lips, and perhaps pull together a whole fashionable look. There are so many different formulas for lipstick in today’s modern fashion world that no one is bound to one specific kind, and the color choices are astronomical.

Here are a few must-knows about lip color, for those lipstick lovers out there:

1. Lip stain

Lip stain is a liquid lipstick that is sheer, but heavily pigmented. The lips will show through this particular product, but they will be tinted. The stain will be light, but the color will cling to the lips for hours until it wears off. The stains are better to use for casual wear instead of a dressy occasion. This product can also be used on the cheek as a tint.

2. Matte lipstick

The matte lipstick is not a glossy type, so they do not reflect much light. With this type of lipstick the lips are given a velvety, more luxurious finish. This brings out the richness of the color, and makes it appear more vibrant. Matte lipsticks are more emollient, so they typically last much longer. They are not easy to rub off, and may make the lips feel dry, so it is not the best for dry lips.

3. Lip gloss

Lip gloss gives a high shine that appears wet on the lips. This shiny gloss is as beautiful as the matte types. The glosses are very moisturizing to the lips, and comfortable to wear. These can easily be rubbed off because of the high moisturizing content. The glossy lipsticks are great for dry lips.

4. Sheer lip color

Sheer lipsticks are similar to the stains in that they give the lips very little color, but they feel comfortable, and they provide a unique moisturizing barrier that still make the lips feel soft and plush.

5. Application tips

Applying lipstick is simple. If foundation or concealer is being used, bring just a little down over the lips. This blocks the lop line, and makes application easier. Just follow the natural contour of the lips. Lip liner should be used to help bring out the chosen color, and help it last longer. Tracing the liner around the perimeter of the lips will help define the shape of the lips, and keep the lipstick from bleeding.

6. Exfoliate the lips

Although femininity is not solely based on a well made up pair of lips, society today places a lot of emphasis on the perfect pout. One important thing to remember is to exfoliate the lips before applying lipstick. Most makeup artists apply lipstick with a brush for a more even finish. This is sometimes the routine for the average woman instead of putting lipstick on straight from the tube. A little known fact about lipstick is that it can expire.