The Modern Matte Lip Is Imperfectly Blurred

Lip textures are often boxed into either matte or glossy textures—but what if I told you the perfect in-between exists? We’re trading in perfectly lined lips for imperfect, soft-focus color that pairs beautifully with the effortless vibe of summer. Not only do blurred formulas add the right just-bitten pop of color (without making out) but they’re also lightweight, natural-looking, and quick to apply.

Blurred textures

Blurred lip products usually feature a texture that’s somewhere in between the creaminess of lipsticks and thickness of glosses. Think of a light, mousse-like texture that almost feels like a balm (and is just as easy to apply!). They dry to a barely-there feel and velvety finish, without the uncomfortable dryness of matte formulas.

Blurred pigments

Ready to enjoy rich matte color with a softer, easy-to-apply formula? Inspired by K-beauty trends, the modern blurred lip is reminiscent of a smudgy, soft stain, like blotted lipstick. Because the look is designed to feature imperfect edges, the low-maintenance lippies are easy to apply on the road or on the go.

Try it for yourself

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur, $35

The newest addition to Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Finish Collection, the Lip Blur is infused with hyaluronic acid and powder blur technology to hydrate and give lips an airbrushed, soft-focus finish. The best part—it lasts for up to 24 hours of wear (!)

Hourglass Velvet Story Lip Cream, $36

A featherweight lip mousse delivers an infusion of color that floats on the lips, giving a diffused look without breaking down or drying out. Its unique texture glides on smooth for a soft-focus, blurring effect with a cushiony, velvety feel.