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Finding your perfect everyday lip isn’t about chasing trends or overthinking color, it’s about discovering that effortless swipe that makes you feel instantly put together. But what exactly makes an “everyday” lip work? It’s a mix of hydration, color, shine, and comfort—and we’re breaking it all down for you.
In this quick tutorial, we’ll show you how to get soft, polished, and perfectly hydrated lips in just a few steps. From prep to color selection (and a few expert tricks in between), you’ll learn how to achieve that effortless, polished finish you can wear anywhere.
And to bring it all to life, we’re using one of our favorite formulas for everyday shine and comfort: NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick, shown here in four shades that suit every mood and moment.
Step 1: Hydration Is Everything
Every great lip look starts with smooth, hydrated skin. Even the best lipstick can’t hide dryness, so take a minute to prep your lips before color goes on.
Start by gently exfoliating—think a damp washcloth, sugar scrub, or even a clean toothbrush to buff away any flakes. Follow up with a nourishing balm or hydrating formula that locks in moisture.
What makes the NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine stand out is that it keeps doing that work for you. Its Monoï Hydrating Complex (a blend of Coconut Oil, Gardenia Tahitensis Flower Extract, and Squalene) helps lips stay soft and supple throughout the day, while Mango and Shea Butter smooth fine lines and hold in hydration. Basically, it’s skincare disguised as lipstick.
💡 Pro Tip 1: If your lips feel dry before applying color, dab on a thin layer of your lipstick first as a base, wait a few seconds, then add your full swipe. You’ll get deeper hydration and a smoother finish that lasts.
Step 2: Choose Your Shade
No two “everyday lips” look the same. Some days call for soft and simple, others for something a little bolder. The trick is finding the shade that fits your mood and your moment.
The NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick line makes it easy, offering four shades that prove everyday color doesn’t have to be boring:
💄 Voyeur: Your go-to nude. Smooth, neutral, and effortlessly polished, perfect for office days or minimalist looks.
💄High Gear: A soft coral that instantly wakes up your face with a hint of warmth. It’s the “I tried, but not too hard” shade.
💄Wild Ride: A sheer burgundy for when you want a pop of color that still feels easy and wearable.
💄Breathless: A warm pink that adds life to your complexion without overpowering it.
💡 Pro Tip 2: If you’re unsure where to start, look at your natural lip tone. Shades that are one to two tones deeper usually give the most flattering, everyday effect.
Step 3: Apply Like a Pro
Now that you’ve found your shade, it’s all about application!
💡 Pro Tip 3: Start with one swipe straight from the bullet for sheer, natural color. Want more shine or a bolder tint? Add another layer or two. The NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick glides on effortlessly thanks to its lightweight, non-sticky formula, so layering never feels heavy.
💡 Pro Tip 4: If you’re going for that soft, “barely-there” finish, use your fingertip to tap the color into your lips instead of swiping—it creates that blurred, just-bitten look that feels effortless and modern. Between the shine, the hydration, and the skincare-level ingredients, this formula doesn’t just look good—it feels good.
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