The Surprising Way You Should Apply Lipstick For Lusher Lips

In terms of sought-after, minimal makeup looks, the blurred lip tops many beauty fans' lists. You might come across a slightly varied moniker—gradation lips, ice-pop lips, blotted lips, et al.—but the intent is clear (or, well, blurry): concentrated pigment in the center of the lips, softening out toward the edges.

The look originated out of South Korea (like many cutting-edge beauty trends) years ago and has been stateside for a while now, too, but it has certainly stuck.

"I think there is something very sweet, romantic, and whimsical about this ombre look," adds makeup artist Alexandra Compton, product development manager at clean beauty retailer Credo. "It can actually make the lips appear fuller because of the strategic placement of concealer and contrast of bright color." Although, you can't just smack your lips together and expect a perfect gradation of color (if you can, consider me extremely envious). Here, Compton offers a step-by-step tutorial to blotted lip success.   

How to master a burred lip

"There are so many beautiful color combinations you can try with this look, from vibrant pinks, hot corals, electric reds, to vampy berries...and beyond," says Compton. No matter your lippie du jour, though, you'll need to wield just two products: your concealer and lipstick or stain. (See? Effortless!) 

The takeaway

The blurred lip looks minimal, yes, but it does take a bit of practice to truly master. But if you're gunning for a go-to look, it's worth the investment—this lip look isn't too fussy, and it's beloved by many.