By using lipstick and lip gloss effectively, you can make your client’s lips look better, fuller and glossier. First you will need to know the look the client is going for - where they are going and what their hair and clothes will be like. They may want a shimmery look or a sheer look. They may need a matte look for the camera, or a coloured look for a dance event. Lipstick is usually thicker than lip gloss and comes in more opaque colors. Lip gloss is mostly transparent, however it also comes with hints of colour. Lip gloss can be used by itself, for a more natural look. It can be paired with a lipstick, to turn the opaque color into a glimmering design. Lip balms can also be used. These are normally transparent as well and their main goal is to protect and moisturize the lips. Lip stains are like pens with strong colours, that change the color of the lips without your lips looking like you are wearing anything at all. Look for options with SPF/UVA/UVB protection. When applying lip color, choose a color that compliments your client’s skin tone and overall look. Start with a colour that is subtle, or something a few shades darker than their natural color. Use a subtle colour for an everyday look and contrasting colors for a night time look. If you are using a red lipstick, try to keep the rest of the look simple. This means you should only apply light eye makeup. There is a wide variety of red lipsticks to choose from and they come in different tints and brightnesses. Choose ones that match your client’s skin tone. Apply a lip liner all the way round the lips. Be sure to start in the middle and then draw the line out on the upper lip on both sides. Start in the middle of the bottom lip and draw the line out to the corners. Using a lip liner prevents the lipstick from running over the lips onto the skin. It is also easier to draw the shape or outline of the lips first with a lip liner and to then fill in the lips with colour. Use a Q-tip or small blotting brush to fill in the rest of the lip, dotting the areas where you want the makeup to be. Never apply a stick directly onto the lips, especially when you are working on different clients. For a glossy look, apply lip gloss. This will add shine and it also helps to stop the colour from running. Lip gloss works effectively over a lip stain. However, be sure to apply it thinly, so that you are not creating a fake look. Tips for lip colour application: Make sure to check your client's consultation card for allergies and check the ingredients and warnings in your product. During the summer months or in places where it is hot and dry, a creamy lipstick can help keep the lips from drying out. Apply a lip moisturizer when you are applying long wear lipstick, which can dry out the lips. You want your client to have a look that will last all day. When you are trying to create a subtle look, match the lips with the client’s outfit. For example, a pink lipstick with a pink blouse.