Use a Lip Primer
Before applying your lipstick, use a lip primer. Skip the lip balm if you plan on using a lip gloss. Lip primer will maximize the staying power of your lipstick. Since it adds moisture, it will keep your lips supple and not dried out.
Line Your Lips
A lip liner will help you define your lip shape and can even give the illusion of fuller lips. Along with helping your lip color stay in place, lip liner prevents lipstick from bleeding outside the lines of your mouth.
Plus, lining your lips can save you from little makeup mishaps throughout the day. If your lipstick wears off, the lip liner will help keep the shape of your pout in place.

If your lipstick wears off, the lip liner will help keep the shape of your pout in place.
Choose a Thick Formula
Test lipstick on the back of your hand; the runnier the formula, the less likely it will stay in place. A gel-based lipstick is a great choice because it offers a balance of slip and grip, giving your lips a glossy finish that lasts.
Pick the Right Shade
If you have fair skin, opt for pinks like rose or cherry blossom. Those with darker skin tones will look great in nudes like brownish-reds, terra-cotta, coral, or brick reds—they’ll bring out the warmth in your lips.

Those with darker skin tones will look great in nudes like brownish-reds, terra-cotta, coral, or brick reds.
How to Apply Lip Gloss
Typically when applying lipstick, you want to fill in your entire pout, but with lip gloss, it’s not necessary. Just apply a generous amount to the center of your lips, then gently blend outward toward the edges using a brush. If you use this lip gloss application technique, your lips will have a natural finish that won’t look gloopy or uneven.
If you want to wear lip gloss for a subtle, everyday look, try the blotted lip method—it’s a great way to wear lip color without going overboard. If the color isn’t opaque enough, use your finger to pat on another layer. For a high-impact shine, apply a generous amount of gloss to the center of your lips, being careful not to go over the edges—this will keep it from bleeding. Then, use a cotton swab to blend the color out.
Don’t Overdo It
Avoid piling on coats. Unlike matte lipstick, the more you layer on lip gloss, the more likely it is to slide around. Stick to one or two coats, applying carefully from the inside out and avoiding the corners of your mouth.