Start with the finish that suits your needs—matte lipsticks like MAC Retro Matte deliver lasting color, while cream or satin textures feel more hydrating. Then pick a shade that complements your undertone: cool skin generally pairs with mauve or rose hues, warm skin with peachy or rosy browns. For a deeper mauve-plum like Soar, consider your lip condition and comfort with a dryer feel. Test on your lips or forearm if possible, and pair with a coordinating lip liner for sharper edges.

The finish determines how the color sits and wears throughout the day. Matte formulas provide long-lasting color with minimal shine, but they can feel drier and emphasize flakes if lips aren’t prepped. To optimize wear, exfoliate and hydrate beforehand, apply a lip liner, and layer the lipstick in thin coats with blotting between layers. Expect less transfer than cream finishes, but plan for touch-ups in dry or windy conditions. If you have very dry lips, a hydrating primer can help.

Begin with a neutral shade to build confidence, then gradually experiment with deeper tones for evening looks. To test shades, try them on your lip line or lightly on the inner lip area if testers aren’t available, and compare the result to your natural lip color in daylight. Observe how the shade complements your eye makeup and undertone. Use a lip liner with bold shades to prevent feathering and create a professional finish.

Apply a thin layer over exfoliated lips, then blot and add a second coat for even color. Use a matching lip liner to improve precision and longevity, and consider a clear balm on top only if you want added moisture without sacrificing wear. To remove, use an oil-based makeup remover or cleansing oil to break the pigment, followed by a gentle cleanser. Wash your lips with water and apply moisturizer afterward.

Identify your undertone by checking vein color (greenish suggests warm, blue-violet suggests cool). Cool undertones pair well with mauves and pinks, while warm undertones suit peachy browns and rosy tones. Consider your lip color base as well—if your natural lips are pale, richer shades may appear more dramatic. For versatile options, choose a shade that enhances your natural lip shade and complements your skin’s warmth or coolness.

MAC Retro Matte can feel drying, so prep is key. Exfoliate lips to remove dead skin, then apply a hydrating lip balm and let it absorb before applying the lipstick. Use a lip liner to define edges and help color last longer. If you have very dry lips, consider sealing with a light balm after the lipstick sets, or alternate with a satin finish product to reduce dryness while maintaining color.