Smudged Lips: The Runway and Social Media Trend We Can’t Stop Seeing

Neither perfectly lined nor ultra-defined finishes: matte blurred lips are consolidating as the choice of makeup trend enthusiasts. Directly inspired by the effortless aesthetic of Korean beauty and reinterpreted by makeup artists on international runways, this “blurred” effect bets on a color that blends with the lip, creating a softer, natural and slightly laid-back result.

The key to this trend lies in the technique: apply the color in the center of the lip and blend it outward, achieving that subtle gradient that adds volume and a youthful vibe to the face. Moreover, matte finishes, far from being rigid, are reinvented in more comfortable and lighter formulas, which allow you to play with the intensity without losing that sense of naturalness. A simple gesture that completely transforms any look, adding sophistication effortlessly.

The Lip Trend of the Moment

Blurred lips have solidified as one of the most visible trends of the moment, both on the runway and on social media. Their success lies in a finish that breaks with the rigidity of classic liner to opt for a softer, natural, and flattering effect. “The diffused lip seeks a soft and natural effect, where the contour is not clearly marked. It’s that kind of lip where you’re not sure where it begins or ends, but it looks pretty, well-groomed, and very flattering,” explains Dreia Casanova, makeup artist for NYX PMU and represented by Prima Talent.

In the same line, the makeup artist Jordi Justribó, co-founder of The Lab Beauty Studio, notes that “the technique of diffused lips is characterized by a gradient finish and no defined contours,” where “the greatest color intensity concentrates in the center of the lip, while the edges are softened, generating a natural and rejuvenating effect.” Far from being a sloppy finish, it is a deliberate work that adds dimension and freshness to the face.

Textures and Key Products

To achieve this effect, the choice of product is fundamental. “It works best with lip colors that are neither too dry nor too creamy. The idea is that they can be worked and blended well,” notes Casanova, who highlights velvety or semi-matte finishes as the most suitable. She also recommends formulas that maintain some flexibility to facilitate blending without sacrificing comfort.

For his part, Justribó broadens the options and explains that “creamy sticks, lip tints, satin lipsticks, tinted balms or soft-matte formulas that are not excessively dry” can be used, always avoiding extremes such as a completely opaque finish or excessive shine. In both cases, the goal is to achieve a texture that allows easy handling of the product and a natural finish.

Step-by-step Technique

The application process is key to achieving the desired effect. “First, and this is crucial: well-hydrated lips. If there is also a prior exfoliation, the result improves greatly,” explains Dreia Casanova. From there, softly outline the lip with a neutral or slightly cool tone, diffusing the edges to start creating dimension. Then, apply the lipstick in small dabs, blending the color with the outlining.

Justribó agrees on the importance of preparation and details that the process includes “hydrating the lips and removing the excess product,” adding concealer if you want to soften the contour and “deposit the lipstick in the center of the lip” to then “diffuse toward the exterior with the finger or with a brush.” Both experts insist on slightly intensifying the center to add depth and volume, always maintaining the gradient effect.

Combination of Tones and Finishes

One of the keys of this trend is its versatility when combining colors. “Yes, absolutely,” says the makeup artist about the possibility of mixing different lip colors, although she notes that “it looks nicer in nude tones,” playing with cool, warm, or neutral nuances. She also points out that starting with a cooler lip liner helps to add depth and structure to the final result.

In the same line, the co-founder of The Lab Studio explains that “it is possible to combine different lip colors, using a more intense shade in the center” and a softer one toward the exterior, and even mix textures with balms to adjust the finish. This freedom makes the diffused lip a technique adaptable to different styles and preferences.

Colors and Look Types

As for color, the season moves between different ranges. “On one hand, dusty, diffused nudes remain very strong,” says Dreia Casanova, while “on the other hand, burgundy and wine tones return with force,” which add character and elevate makeup with a simple gesture. They are options that allow the trend to adapt to both subtle looks and more intense proposals.

Finally, Jordi Justribó adds that natural pinks, soft raspberries, light brick tones, warm nudes, and cherry reds applied in a gradient also predominate. This chromatic variety makes it easy to integrate into multiple styles: from natural and romantic makeup to more sophisticated proposals. As the NYX PMU makeup artist concludes, “the diffused lip is super versatile: it works just as well for everyday wear as for a wedding or a special dinner.”

Lipsticks and Liners to Achieve This Effect

NYX PMU

NYX PMU Suede Matte Lip Liner is a lip liner available in a wide range of shades to achieve the diffused matte lip effect, with a fuller-looking lip. It can be complemented with the brand’s matte lipsticks. (4.50 euros)

Maybelline NY

The matte lips can be hydrated with the brand’s new release, Serum Lipstick. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it provides color and is available in five matte shades. Delivers up to eight hours of hydration. (6.95 euros)

Rare Beauty

Find Comfort Lip Butter are balm-form lipsticks to achieve a diffused lip with a volumized appearance. Their formula contains hydrating actives such as hyaluronic acid butter, shea butter, and apple seed oil. (Available at Sephora, 20 euros)

Huda Beauty

Lip Contour Stain is a lip liner that can also be used as a lipstick in one step. Its tip allows precise application that is transfer-resistant. (Available at Sephora, 26 euros)

L’Oréal Paris

The brand’s new lipstick is Color Riche Matte Diffused, a matte product that achieves lips with intense color and a sense of hydration thanks to its argan oil formula. It can also be used as a blush. (16.47 euros)

Veralab

Cloud Mat is a lipstick with a light appearance that achieves an intense matte color, while leaving the lip with a hydrated feel. Over time, the lips become smoother and plumper. (24 euros)