All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
The magic and innovation of the Korean beauty industry knows no bounds. TikTok is filled with thousands of tutorials for every Korean-inspired beauty trend imaginable. The latest to hit? “Blurred Lips,” which promise the look of a full pout without the use of Botox, filler, or any other type of procedural enhancement. Best of all, the technique is as easy as it is effective, and doesn’t require impossible techniques or a zillion different products. Here are the four steps to master in order to get the blurred lip look for yourself.
Step 1: Prep the lips
Dry lips will prevent the blurring effect, so gently massage lips with a scrub and then apply a moisturizing balm. If you have time, leave the balm on for a few minutes as a mask before removing for the next step.
Step 2: Blur the outline
We’re looking for the opposite of outlined lips, so use a little concealer on the outline of the lips to neutralize your natural color. Don’t overdo it; a very small amount of concealer is more than enough. If you have previously applied makeup to your skin, you can also achieve the same effect by spreading foundation onto your lips with your brush or sponge. Then blend with your finger, and you’re done.
Step 3: Apply a drop of color in the middle
Lip tints or moisturizing lipsticks, like Violette’s Bisou Balm, are the key to achieving this look as it relies on transparent, light layers. Look for shades that closely resemble your natural color, but with a slightly more vivid touch. Think: cherry reds, raspberry, coral, guava. Apply a drop of color in the center of the upper and lower lips, then blend outward with your finger.
Step 4: Seal (if you want to)
If you’re worried about the color moving, you can seal with a little loose powder around the lips using a small brush, or apply a touch of powder blush in the center of the lips. It’s not mandatory, but it helps to keep the color in place. Afterwards, use gloss if you feel like it—but only very lightly in the center. The result should be a natural lip with color and a lot of volume.
