How to Remove Liquid Lipstick and Other Lip Products

When it comes to common makeup topics and questions, how to remove lipstick is easily near the top of the list. While we all love the way lip products provide an oh-so-pretty pout, removing the pigment can be an absolute pain. Even if you try everything from makeup remover wipes to double cleansing, chances are the stubborn lip color won't wipe off completely—especially if you opt for a liquid lipstick formula. If you’re ready to remove your lip products without having to scrub your lips bare, consider this your guide for taking off lip makeup. From lip stains and regular lipsticks to lip gloss, and of course, liquid lipstick, we’re ready to answer the age-old question about lip product removal once and for all.

HOW TO REMOVE LIPSTICK AND OTHER LIP PRODUCTS

Taking your makeup—from foundation to eye shadow to lip products—off before bed should be part of your nightly skin care routine. When you sleep, your makeup can mix with the dirt and oils on your face, which can lead to clogged pores—and ultimately cause breakouts. Of course, when you’re wearing long-wear formulas, your first instinct may be to scrub your heart out until your face looks clean. But it’s important to be gentle for healthy skin. Below, we’re sharing two options you can use to take all of your lip products off with ease.

REMOVAL OPTION #1: MICELLAR WATER

This no-rinse cleansing option has been a French-favorite facial cleanser for years—and with good reason. Micellar water is powered by tiny micelles—oil molecules—that act as a magnet to lift dirt, excess oils, and makeup up and away from the skin. The L’Oréal Paris Micellar Water Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types removes makeup—even waterproof—cleans dirt and impurities, and intensely purifies. Suitable for all skin types, you can use this micellar water on the face, eyes, and lips. It’s also free of oil, soap, and alcohol. Simply saturate a cotton pad and wipe the pad across your lips to remove your lip product. And since you don’t need to be anywhere near a sink to use micellar water, you can carry it in your gym bag or pack it in your suitcase to help remove your lip makeup while on vacation.

REMOVAL OPTION #2: OIL-BASED MAKEUP REMOVER

In addition to micellar water, an oil-based bi-phase makeup remover can help remove lip products. Look for a formula that specifically says it’s safe to use on your lips, since some may only be meant for eye makeup. Shake it up, pour some out onto a cotton pad, and wipe the pad across your lips. Follow up with facial cleanser and the rest of your skin care routine.

Editor’s tip: Why not make things easy on yourself? Keep your nightstand stocked with either micellar water or a bi-phase oil-based makeup remover so that you can remove your lip products—along with the rest of your makeup—without making a trip to the bathroom sink.

HOW TO APPLY LIPSTICK AND OTHER LIP PRODUCTS

Now that you know how to remove lip products, you may be wondering how exactly to apply them. The truth is, pigmented lip products can get messy, and if you’re not an application expert, your lip makeup look can go left very quickly. Follow our step-by-step guide to apply various lip products like a pro.

STEP 1: EXFOLIATE YOUR LIPS

Anytime you wear a bold color on your pout, there’s a chance that it could draw attention to dryness or flakes. Use a scrub, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Cocoa Scrub, to help gently slough away dead skin cells from the surface of your lips.

STEP 2: PRIME YOUR POUT

Apply a lip primer to help create a smooth base for your lip products. If you don’t have access to a lip primer, use a hydrating balm instead.

STEP 3: BREAK OUT THE LIP LINER

Using the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Lipliner in a shade that matches whichever product you’re gearing up to apply, define your lip shape. Lip liner can be used to make your lips look bigger, prevent color from feathering outside the lines, and help make lipstick last longer.

STEP 4: APPLY YOUR LIP PRODUCT

Now that your lips are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to apply your desired lip product! Before you start, know that different lip products may require slightly different application techniques for a seamless finish.

Liquid Lipstick: Liquid lipsticks typically come with a wand applicator for precise coverage. Slowly swipe your bottom and top lip with pigment. Be sure not to apply too much to avoid product transfer.

Lipstick: With a traditional bullet lipstick, start at the center of your lip and move outward toward one corner, then outward in the opposite direction. Repeat on your upper lip, making sure to follow the shape of your lips.

Lip Stain: Just like with your standard lipstick application, start at the center of your lip and move outward one section at a time for even coverage. 

Lip Gloss: Apply your lip gloss to the middle of your bottom lip and rub your lips together. This method provides the perfect amount of shine without having to deal with excess product. You can also apply a full sweep on your bottom lip and press your lips together for a more luminous finish.

Next up: With the question of removing lip makeup out of the way, it’s now all about the eyes. To find out how to remove the trickiest of eye makeup formulas—waterproof products—click through to our article, How to Remove Waterproof Mascara and Other Water-Resistant Makeup.