A lot of attention is often given to different techniques of applying lipstick. Of course, applying lipstick properly is very important, but if you apply it to dry, flakey lips it is not going to look good. Plain and simple.

I’m sure there are a lot of ways to prep your lips for lipstick, but this is the way I find most effective.

There are times when I am lucky enough to know that I’m doing something the following day which will prompt me to wear a bright or dark lipstick. This most often happens when I have plans for a night out, or I know I am going to an event like a wedding, or there is a holiday party. In these circumstances take advantage by starting to prep your lips the night before!

(Side Note: In general it will be helpful just to make sure you care for your lips on a daily basis. Just try not to let them get chapped in the first place. My personal method of lip care is keeping a lip balm in every pocket, purse and crevice in my life. If you stick your hand in my belongings (which you shouldn’t…get your paws out of my stuff!) you will probably pull out a lip balm. But the point is I moisturize them ALL THE TIME. To summarize- Do not step outdoors without something protecting your lips from the elements.)

It is probably always a good idea to put some balm on your lips before you go to sleep. Overnight is the time when your lips can get most dried out. I like to choose something thick to go on my lips at night because the longer it stays on while you sleep, through your tossing, turning and drooling, the more you benefit from it.

When I know I will be wearing lipstick the next day, I like to layer my products. I start with a layer of Palmers Cocoa Butter Swivel Stick