There's nothing worse than perfect lips that fade after one coffee. The good news? With the right technique and products, you can make your lipstick last all day — through meals, drinks and everything in between. Here's how.

Step 1: Prep Your Lips

Long-lasting color starts with a smooth base. Gently exfoliate to remove dry flakes, then apply a thin layer of balm and let it absorb. Blot off any excess — too much balm makes lipstick slide off.

Step 2: Line and Fill With Lip Liner

This is the secret weapon. Outline your lips with a lip liner, then fill in your entire lips with it. The liner creates a grippy base that holds your lipstick in place and stops it from feathering or sliding.

Step 3: Apply Lipstick in Thin Layers

Apply one thin layer of lipstick, then blot gently with a tissue. Blotting removes excess oils and sets the first layer. Apply a second thin layer for richer, longer-lasting color.

Step 4: The Blot-and-Powder Trick

For maximum staying power, lightly press a tissue over your lips and dust a tiny bit of translucent powder on top, then add one more thin layer of color. This locks everything in.

Step 5: Choose Long-Wear Formulas

Some formulas naturally last longer. Liquid lip tints and long-wear liners stain the lips, so color remains even as the top layer wears. A tattoo-style lip stain under your favorite gloss gives lasting color with fresh shine on top.