1. Confidence. Who doesn't feel exponentially sexier after a swipe of lipstick? Answer: no one.
2. Sun protection. Lips can get sunburned just like the rest of your skin. In fact, they're more vulnerable to the sun's rays because there is no melanin (the compound that protects skin from the sun) in your lips. But thankfully, lipsticks oftentimes have an SPF of 15 or higher, protecting them from an awkward sunburn.
3. Lipstick (opens in new tab) can make your lips appear fuller. But the mouth isn't the only facial feature it helps to define. A pop of color on the bottom of your face makes the pop of color on top—your eyes—look bigger and more defined.
4. Posture. Surprising, right? Studies have shown that women who regularly wear lipstick have better posture than those who don't. A study by L'Oreal revealed that the (albeit, small) act of "stretching" to put on lipstick improves balance and coordination, and thereby makes you stand taller.
5. Swiping on lip color is the easiest (and quickest) way to look put-together sans foundation, mascara, eyeliner, et al. Less prep time in the morning is always much appreciated.
Related:
10 Lipstick Rules to Live By (opens in new tab)
7 Most Iconic Red Lips on TV (opens in new tab)
-
The 15 Best Blushes for Every Skin Tone and SeasonPowders, liquids, and creams for every preference.
-
What Is Brow Lamination? Eyebrow Experts Weigh In
Brow lamination = like a perm, but for your eyebrows.
-
Hair Toner 101: Colorists Explain What Hair Toning Is and Why It Works
"Anyone with color treated hair should be using toners."
-
The 33 Best Shampoos and Conditioners, According to Marie Claire Editors
Curly hair, fine hair, textured hair—we've got you covered.
-
35 Lob Haircuts to Add to Your Mood Board in 2022
A tribute to the long bob, a.k.a. the cut that works on everyone.
-
The 12 Best Skin Extractor Tools in 2022
Blackheads, be gone.
-
19 Safe At-Home Keratin Treatments for Frizz-Free Hair
Shiny, silky, satiny.
-
The 13 Best Whitening Toothpastes That Work
Say goodbye to yellow stains.
