What Is The Blurred Lip Trend And How To Achieve It

Lipstick lovers, it’s time to embrace a softer, more effortless take on lip colour - aka the blurred lip trend. Unlike the crisp, defined edges of a traditional lipstick look, blurred lips give you that soft-focus, just-bitten pout. Originally a staple in K-beauty, this trend has taken over social media, with beauty lovers ditching harsh lines for a diffused, dreamy pout.

What Is The Blurred Lip Trend?

Think of the blurred lip trend as the cooler, more relaxed cousin of the classic bold lip. It calls for diffused edges, a soft-focus finish, and a slightly smudged, natural-looking stain, creating a fresh, lived-in lip that looks like you’ve just been sipping on a berry smoothie - or stolen a quick kiss.

The beauty of this trend is its versatility. You can keep it subtle with soft pinks and nudes for a naturally flushed effect, or dial it up with bold reds and deep berry shades for a sultry, blurred-out statement. Unlike traditional lipsticks that require a steady hand and precise application, this look is intentionally imperfect, making it incredibly easy to pull off.

Why Is The Blurred Lip Trend So Popular?

Part of the appeal is just how effortless and wearable it is. Instead of spending time perfecting a sharp lip line, you can smudge and blend your way to a flawless finish. Brands like Refy with their Blur Lip Liner and Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tints have jumped on this trend, proving that soft, pillowy lips are here to stay.

Another reason for its popularity is that it suits all lip shapes and even gives the illusion of fuller, plumper lips without the need for overlining. Also, it pairs beautifully with minimal ‘clean girl’ makeup or a toned down glam look, making it the ultimate versatile lip trend.

How To Achieve The Blurred Lip Look

Step 1: Prep Your Lips

Like any great lip look, it starts with smooth, hydrated lips. Exfoliate with a lip scrub or a damp toothbrush to buff away dry skin, then follow up with a nourishing lip balm or primer. This creates the ideal base for soft, blended colour.

Step 2: Choose the Right Lip Products

The blurred lip look leans into blendable, lightweight formulas. Go for matte lipsticks, creamy lip tints, or slim lip crayons, which give you more control over application and double up as a lip contour for a softer, natural definition. Unlike traditional lip liners, these help define the lips without looking too sharp or precise.

Step 3: Application Techniques

To nail the blurred effect, apply your lipstick to the centre of your lips and then use your finger, a cotton bud, or a lip brush to blend it outwards. This softens the edges for that diffused, just-kissed effect.

For a slightly more defined look, use a lip liner or slim lip crayon to trace the edges, then lightly smudge them for a soft-focus finish. If you’re using a lip contour product, you might not even need to smudge, it naturally blends out for a diffused look.

Step 4: Set for Longevity

To keep your blurred lip look in place, lightly blot with a tissue to remove any excess product. For extra staying power, dust a tiny amount of translucent powder over your lips for a long-lasting, velvety finish.

Best Products To Create A Blurred Lip Look

When it comes to the blurred lip trend, looking effortless is the name of the game, so don’t stress about making it too neat or precise. Play around with different shades, try layering a lip tint with a balm for a dewy effect, and keep the rest of your makeup soft and natural to let your lips take centre stage. For more on lip makeup, check out our beauty sale and our guide on The Best Liner And Lipstick Combo.