Lipstick Layering Hacks: Create Exclusive Shades That Turn Heads

No makeup kit is ever complete without a handful of lipstick shades. From soft nudes to bold reds, most of us pick our lip color depending on the outfit, the occasion, or simply our mood. But there comes a point when the same old shades start to feel repetitive. The first instinct? Rush to the store for a new lipstick. But here’s the good news—you don’t always need to buy a new one to flaunt a fresh shade.

Enter lipstick layering. By mixing and matching lipsticks you already own, you can create entirely new shades, save money, and stand out with a personalized look. Celebrity makeup artist and skincare expert Riya Vashisth, founder of RVMUA Academy, shares some easy hacks to give your lips a bold, stylish makeover.

1. Dark Outline with a Light Fill
For a chic ombré effect, outline your lips with a dark shade and fill the center with a lighter one. Blend gently where the two meet. This not only delivers a trendy new shade but also contours the lips, making them look fuller and more defined.

2. Nude Base with a Pop of Bright Color
Perfect for daytime elegance, start with a creamy nude base slightly lighter than your natural lip tone. Layer on a bright hue like red, fuchsia, or orange. Dab and blend lightly with your fingers for a soft yet vibrant finish. The result? A balanced shade that looks classy without being overpowering.

3. Metallic Touch on Matte
Heading to a party? Try layering metallic over matte. First, apply your favorite matte lipstick. Then, dab a metallic shade lightly at the center. Since metallic reflects light differently, your lips will appear multidimensional with every turn, making it the ultimate statement look.

Lipstick layering is more than a beauty trick—it’s a creative experiment. With just a few clever blends, you can elevate everyday makeup into something glamorous and unique. So before you splurge on the next trending shade, look into your kit. Your exclusive shade may already be waiting to be created.