How to stop lipstick bleeding and feathering, according to an expert

Few things are worse than applying your lipstick perfectly only for it to settle into fine lines and creases within the hour. Who wants to spend good money on a lovely formula that they're not able to enjoy?

Thankfully, it doesn't have to be this way, as there are a few failsafe tips and tricks you can employ that will stop your lipstick from going all over the place.

So if you've been desperately seeking how to stop lipstick bleeding and feathering, we've grilled an expert to help you keep your color in place for as long as possible. Keep reading for the top make-up artist tips and tricks you'll need...

• Best eye cream: the best buys for every single skin type
• Best foundation: our 7 favorite formulas for all skin types
• The best mascara to lengthen, define and volumize your lashes with our favorite formulas

How to stop lipstick bleeding and feathering

Good news: there are several things you can do to stop lipstick bleeding and feathering in mature skin. Below, Bobbi Brown Pro Artist Warren Dowdall shares his top tips and tricks.

Use eye cream around your mouth at night

“Keep any fine lines around the lips plumped by applying a little eye cream at night around the lip area. Follow by sealing with lip balm to lock in hydration for a smoother, fuller looking pout in the morning.”

Apply translucent powder around your mouth

“Try applying a very fine translucent powder with an Eye Blender Brush lightly around the lips to absorb any excess oil around the mouth after lipstick application  which can cause feathering.”

Use a lip brush

This will give you a more precise and controlled lipstick application that will allow you to build and layer your lip colour to fill in any areas where there may be any dehydration lines for a smoother, long-wearing finish.”

Line your lips

“Be sure to line your lips both before and after your lipstick application. This will help define and add structure to your lips, but also help prevent feathering.” Keep reading for a few more of Dowdall's tips on making your lip color last longer.

$27 at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Bobbi Brown Lip Pencil, $27/£20

View Deal

$31 at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Bobbi Brown Retractable Lip Brush, $31/£24.50

View Deal

How to make your lipstick last longer

Use a rich lipstick

“Go for a richly pigmented formula like our Luxe Defining Lipstick," Dowdall advises. "It has a creamy matte texture that stays comfortable with 12 hour moisture and a precise tip that can be used to line, define and fill in the lips for an all-day feather resistant color.

Apply a thin layer of concealer

“Apply a sheer layer of concealer over the lips before applying your lip color. This will provide a base for the pigment to sit on and give an even, longer lasting application.”

Use a lip scrub

"You can create your own bespoke lip scrub by mixing a little sugar into your lip balm to smooth away any rough texture and create a perfect base for any lip product.“

Consider your lipstick woes fixed!