The search for a signature lip shade that best compliments your complexion or the perfect lip hue for a specific outfit can be time-consuming and fruitless. Translation: Frustrating and no fun. Rather than give up or devote unnecessary time to the task, why not whip up a custom color in seconds at home?

That’s what I do.

And maybe it’s the makeup artist in me to create rather than scour, but it’s just so simple and so much more rewarding when you get exactly what you want.

Not to mention it’s pretty effortless. Anyone can do it and to prove the point, I coached Intern Jess through the process as I photographed it.

STEP 1: Pull your products. To start, you will need a clear lipgloss or balm that has a taste, texture and consistency you like. It will serve as your base. Also pull loose pigments that can be worn on the lips in shades that are in the family of what you’re going for.

STEP 2: Apply just a touch of everything on a makeup palette. And if you don’t have one, don’t worry, just use the back of your hand. Remember, a little goes a long way with pigments.

STEP 3: Take a lipbrush or a disposible lip wand and mix pigments into the clear gloss a bit at a time, blending the shades until you find the exact custom color you want. Semi-obvious tip: The more pigments you use, the more pigmented the color. If you want something sheer, add more clear gloss or less pigment.

STEP 4: Coat lips using the lipbrush. Be sure to tap it first so any loose particles fall out prior to application.

STEP 5: Pucker up and show off that gorgeous gloss!

Want to take your custom color out with you? Course you do! Get a disposable mini container from a store like Ricky’s and whip up a batch for reapplication.

XOLC

PS: Thank you Jess, for being my subject! Muah!