Women always have a signature lipstick color. Be it an understated nude or a high-glamour red, everyone has a go-to shade. However, the perfect lipstick isn’t just about the color. You must also consider the type and finish, as these can make or break the overall effect. Here, we’ll try to establish the difference between gloss and matte lipsticks . Let’s get started and list the key differences one by one.

1. Understanding the two formulations
Matte is one of the most sought-after finishes today. It’s a colored hue without any sparkle or shine. Matte lipsticks give your lips a smooth and velvety texture, making the color seem more vibrant. Glossy lipsticks, on the other hand, give a shine. They’re soft and more transparent, designed to boost your lips’ natural texture and shape.

2. When to wear what
A gloss lipstick will make you look good without trying too hard. So, it should be your go-to pick if you don’t have the time for meticulous makeup, say you have to rush for work or have a quick errand to run. You can also wear gloss lipstick for occasions that don’t require too much makeup. Matte lipsticks, however, need attention to detail and precision. But they pay off. You can choose matte lipsticks if you have a long day at work with back-to-back meetings and no time for reapplication. This is because matte lipsticks don’t move around or bleed too much.

3. Hydration
Matte lipsticks are naturally more dehydrating than their glossy counterparts. So be careful when applying them to prevent flakes or dryness. Even if your lips are in their best shape, matte lipsticks’ formula can rob the moisture from your lips. Therefore, ensure your lips are well-moisturized before application. Use a lip scrub to exfoliate and then moisturize for seamless application.

4. Effects
Gloss lipsticks look more natural. They can also make your lips fuller and plumper. This isn’t the case with matte lipsticks. However, matte lipsticks look more disciplined and sophisticated. So your choice also depends on what effect you want to achieve or the kind of self you want to put forward.

5. Touch-ups
Gloss lipsticks need constant touch-ups after drinking or eating. So you’ll need to carry it along for reapplication anytime you step out. On the contrary, matte lipsticks can survive regular drinking and eating. They last long and are typically smudge-proof and fade-resistant, demanding minimal touch-ups around the day.

These were some of the key differences between matte and glossy lipsticks. Keep these points in mind the next time you’re dressing up for any occasion. That said, don’t forget to consider the kind of outfit you’re wearing as it can also be a deciding factor.