Lip Stains for Spring and Summer

Once the weather gets warmer, I like to wear lip stains to add color to my lips without the heavy feel of lipsticks-not to mention they don't need to be re-applied every few hours like lipsticks. On the runways, lip stains were used to freshen up the face without being overbearing. Lip stains come in a variety of formulas and prices, so they can be bought on any budget.

The different types of formulas are:

Creams

Gel

Marker

Brush

Not all formulas are made the same. Some may be drying to the lips, so adding gloss not only increases moisture, but enhances shine. Lip stains go well with any makeup look. If you want to have a minimal look, a simple routine of lip stain and mascara works well, and a soft stain color enhances even a dramatic eye look. Many of the lip stains available also last for hours, reducing the amount of time you would have to otherwise touch-up if you were wearing lipstick.

Since lip stains are subtle, they go well with any skin tone. If you have lighter skin, stick to colors with a pink or orange tone. Darker skin tones go well with deeper colors, like wine, plum and burgundy.

Sephora carries various lip stains from companies like Stila, Tarte and Benefit cosmetics. Sephora has their own affordable line of lip stains, with shades like Red Wine and Pinot, and also functions as a cheek stain for subtle color. If you like the look of gloss over the stain, Sephora has a collection of Stain and Shine glosses, that have both a stain and shimmering gloss to apply over the color. Shades include Coral/Gold, Plum Pink/Sheer Pink and Merlot/Clear. CoverGirl, which may be found at retail or drugstores, features Outlast Lipstain, which comes in colors like Wild Berry Wink, Plum Pout, Coy Coral and Cinnamon Smile.

To keep makeup fresh through the spring and summer, think about trying a stain instead of sticky glosses or lipstick. The look is natural and long lasting--perfect for those days by the pool.