What does "bleeding" of lipstick mean?

When referring to "bleeding" of lipstick, it is understood as the phenomenon where the lipstick color starts to feather or bleed outside the lip line, creating a smudge or blur. This typically occurs when the formulation of the lipstick is too creamy or emollient, allowing it to migrate from the defined lip borders, especially in warm conditions or with certain skin types.

Choosing the correct response highlights the importance of proper application techniques and product selection to ensure a neat and defined lip look. While issues such as thickness, dryness, or scent can affect the overall performance and experience of applying lipstick, they do not specifically relate to the concept of product bleeding. Thus, the most accurate interpretation of "bleeding" in this context aligns with the description of the lipstick melting and spreading beyond its intended application area. Understanding this can assist makeup artists in selecting appropriate formulations and applying preventative measures, such as using lip liners or setting powders, to maintain clean lip lines.