I used to always apply my lipstick in one go and be done with it. As long as the color came on nicely, I would just go out like that, but after a short while, the color would often wear off on the inner part of my lips or look smudged on the outer edges. This was especially true for moisturizing lipsticks; they looked pretty when applied, but there were many days when they didn't last well.
I used to think I wasn't applying enough, so I tried increasing the amount, but it actually made my lips look messier. Instead of the color coming out intensely, there were times when it felt like it clumped along the lip texture or the edges looked thick.
Since then, I've changed my application method a bit; now, instead of finishing it all at once, I try to tidy it up once in the middle.
First, apply a thin layer once.
Instead of applying a thick layer from the start, begin by spreading a thin layer over your entire lips. At this stage, it felt cleaner to apply it lightly, giving the impression of naturally layering the color rather than building it up.
Second, lightly blot with a tissue
After applying lipstick, lightly place a tissue against your lips and press gently. It is important to dab rather than rub; I found that doing this helps remove any excess oil or product remaining on the surface.
After using a tissue, the color may look slightly lighter than before, but this state actually looks like a base for the next step.
Third, apply a thin layer once again.
When I applied a thin layer of lipstick over it again, the color seemed to develop much more cleanly than the first time. The color appeared more evenly than when applied thickly in one go, and it felt less like it settled into the lip creases. In particular, when applied naturally from the inner part of the lips outward, the edges blended smoothly, giving an overall polished look.
Thoughts after applying lipstick according to this routine
Since I applied it this way, the shape seems less messy even when the lipstick wears off over time. In the past, there were often times when only the middle was empty or just the edges remained, but now it feels like it fades overall, making it easier to touch up.