Achieving the popular "Korean lips" look often refers to creating a soft, gradient effect that makes the lips appear fuller in the center and softly blurred towards the edges. This gradient technique is a hallmark of Korean makeup trends.
Here's how you can create this look based on a common method:
Steps to Achieve the Korean Gradient Lip Look
Creating the gradient lip effect involves layering different shades of lip color to build dimension. Follow these steps for a beautiful, diffused finish:
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Apply a Light Base Shade:
- Start by using a light base shade.
- Apply this shade all over your lips. This helps to neutralize your natural lip color and provide a smooth canvas for the gradient.
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Apply a Darker Shade:
- Select a darker, more vibrant shade, typically a tint or lipstick.
- Apply this darker shade primarily on the inner side of your lips. Focus the color towards the center.
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Define the Top Lip (Optional Detail from Reference):
- With the darker shade, draw an M shape on the top lip. This step, as mentioned in the reference, can help define the cupid's bow area within the gradient. Note: Traditionally, the gradient is most pronounced on the inner bottom and top lip, fading outwards. This "M shape" detail from the reference seems to add a specific definition.
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Blend and Soften:
- Gently blend the darker shade outwards using a finger, a brush, or by lightly pressing your lips together. The goal is a seamless transition from the concentrated color in the center to the lighter base towards the edges. Avoid blending completely to the lip line.
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Finish with Gloss:
- To complete the look, use a gloss to top it off. Applying a gloss adds hydration, shine, and can help diffuse the edges further, enhancing the plumpness in the center.
| Step | Product Type | Application Area | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Light Base | Foundation, Concealer, Lip Base | All over lips | Neutralize, smooth canvas |
| 2. Darker Shade Application | Tint, Lipstick | Inner side | Create color concentration |
| 3. Darker Shade Definition | Tint, Lipstick | M shape on top lip | Define (as per reference) |
| 4. Blend | Finger, Brush | Inner outwards (gently) | Diffuse color, create gradient effect |
| 5. Gloss | Lip Gloss | All over (or center) | Add shine, moisture, enhance gradient |
This method helps create the appearance of smaller, softer lips with a focus of color in the center, which is a signature of the Korean gradient lip style.
