The Clever Lipstick Trick We Wish We'd Known About Sooner

We’re always amazed by the simple tips makeup artists have up their sleeves, especially when they help us get our money’s worth with our favorite products. Case in point? While chatting with makeup artist Lindsey Trop recently, we learned a clever makeup trick we wish we’d known about sooner, and we just had to share it.

Trop, who is based in Connecticut, has been featured in Elle, InStyle and Vogue. Throughout her career, she has done everything from wedding makeup to beauty lessons and TV makeup.

During our discussion, Trop shared a unique lipstick trick that we’d never encountered before. It’s so simple, it’ll leave you wondering: “Why didn’t I think of that before?”

The makeup artist also gave us several other useful tips, including where to apply lipstick for a fuller-looking effect, how to prep lips before applying lipstick and how to make your lipstick stay on longer without feathering. She also shared common mistakes that we’ve all made at least once! Read on for her top tips.

This Pro Makeup Artist’s Lipstick Trick Is Genius Getty

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When it comes to lipstick, we’re usually attracted to certain products for one major reason: the gorgeous color. But the shade you initially fell for doesn’t always end up living up to your expectations. Luckily, there’s an easy fix.

“If you’ve ever loved a lipstick in the tube but felt like it looked completely different on you, your natural lip color is likely influencing it,” Trop says. “A simple trick is to neutralize your lips first by tapping on a bit of concealer and setting it with a translucent powder. Then apply your lipstick on top to enjoy the true color.”

The makeup maven also says you can even mix a small amount of your foundation into the lipstick before applying it.

“This subtly adjusts the undertone so it harmonizes better with your skin, making the shade feel more you instead of sitting on top of your complexion,” she says.

How To Make Lipstick Stay on Longer Without Feathering

Whether you’re familiar with the term or not, you’ve likely experienced lipstick feathering before.

“Feathering is when lipstick bleeds into the fine lines around your lips. It tends to happen more with creamy or glossy formulas and on lips with more fine lines,” Trop says.

To prevent feathering and lock in your lip color, Trop suggests the following application technique:

Start by lightly applying foundation or concealer to the lip line and to the fine lines just around the lips, then set it with powder.

Use a long-wear lip liner to define the lips and to act as a barrier for the lipstick.

Next, apply your lipstick in light layers. For maximum hold, in between each layer, hold a one-ply tissue up to the lips and powder with a loose fluffy brush on top of the tissue.

Where To Apply Lipstick for a Fuller-Looking Effect

Craving full, luscious lips? Trop has a few tips for achieving the look at home.

“For a fuller effect, focus on slightly enhancing the center of the lips rather than overlining everywhere. You can softly overline just at the cupid’s bow and the center of the bottom lip, then stay true to your natural shape at the corners,” she says.

The makeup artist recommends keeping the corners “a touch deeper or more defined” and placing a bit more brightness or shine in the center.

“This creates dimension, which naturally makes the lips look fuller without looking obvious or overdone,” she says.

How To Prep Lips Before Applying Lipstick Getty

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Skincare plays a big role in making sure you have a smooth canvas while applying foundation and concealer. Similarly, lip care is also important.

“Lip prep makes a huge difference in how lipstick looks and wears,” Trop says.

Follow these tips from the makeup pro to nail your lip care routine:

Start by gently exfoliating with a lip scrub to remove any dryness or flaking.

Next, apply a hydrating balm and let it absorb while you do the rest of your makeup.

Before applying lipstick, blot off any excess balm so the lips aren’t slippery.

If you want extra longevity, you can lightly prime the lips with a lip primer.

5 Common Lipstick Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to lipstick, Trop has seen it all: the good, the bad and the ugly. And she’s come up with a few tips for avoiding some common lipstick mistakes:

1. Not correcting your lip shape first

“Lips are rarely perfectly even, and lipstick will highlight that if you don’t correct the shape first,” Trop says.

The makeup artist suggests assessing your lip shape then using a lip liner or a small brush with concealer to correct the shape as necessary before applying lipstick.

“Focus on balancing proportions, like slightly lifting one side of the cupid’s bow, evening out the bottom lip or cleaning up the corners. Once the shape is perfected, the end result will look much better,” she says.

2. Choosing the wrong undertone

“A lipstick can technically be the right color but still feel off if the undertone clashes with your skin,” Trop says. “Pay attention to whether a shade leans warm, cool or neutral, and choose tones that complement your complexion.”

3. Holding onto the same signature lip color for too long

If you’re a creature of habit, you’ve likely stuck with the same lip color for years. But Trop says you should consider switching things up occasionally.

“Over time, your skin tone, hair color and even your features can subtly change. A lipstick that once felt perfect can start to feel a little flat or off. Revisit your go-to lip color every year or so, or even seasonally, and reassess,” Trop suggests. “You don’t have to completely change it. Sometimes it’s just about adjusting the undertone, depth or finish so it continues to complement you in a fresh, natural way.”

4. Skipping prep

“Dry or textured lips can make even the best lipstick look patchy. Smooth and hydrate lips beforehand so the color applies evenly and comfortably,” Trop recommends.

5. Not checking for lipstick on teeth

“After applying, place a finger in your mouth, close your lips around it and pull it out. This removes excess product from the inner lip,” Trop says.

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Source:

Lindsey Trop is a makeup artist who has been featured in Vogue

This story was originally published by Parade on May 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the Life section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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The Clever Lipstick Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner