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The 5 secrets to kissable lips inspired by history's most memorable kisses

We've gathered five fool-proof rules to getting your smoothest, softest and most kissable lips ever.
Everett Collection
/ Source: TODAY

Cupid is coming on Saturday, which means it's time to get your lips perfectly pouty. We've gathered five fool-proof rules to getting your smoothest, softest and most kissable lips ever.

1. Exfoliate:

Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh in "Gone with the Wind" in 1939.
Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh in "Gone with the Wind" in 1939.Everett Collection

Not only does exfoliating make your lips soft, it also preps them for lipstick (like the red lipstick many of us adorn on date night). Exfoliate your lips by either using a cleansing brush (like Clarisonic), a toothbrush, or a lip scrub, says celebrity makeup artist Ramy Gafni. Gafni suggests creating an at-home treatment by mixing a teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of sugar and combining the ingredients into a paste. Apply the mixture to your lips and then rub vigorously with your finger or a toothbrush.

Pro tip: The act of brushing will automatically increase blood flow to your lips, but adding peppermint oil or cinnamon will help plump them even further.

2. Avoid licking lips:

"Lady & The Tramp," 1955.
"Lady & The Tramp," 1955.Everett Collection

When our lips feel dry, a common reaction is to lick them. Turns out, that’s not the best way to go. Celebrity esthetician Renee Rouleau said, “When the lips are moist on the surface from your saliva, they attract moisture from deep within the skin and will evaporate into the dry air through osmosis." The best way to fix and heal dry, cracked lips is to use a conditioning lip balm and apply it throughout the day. “Even if you still feel the urge to lick your lips, the balm provides a barrier of protection to keep your natural moisture in the lips,” Rouleau said.

3. Block them:

Cary Elwes and Robin Wright in "The Princess Bride," 1987.
Cary Elwes and Robin Wright in "The Princess Bride," 1987.20th Century Fox Licensing/Merch

“It tastes a little funny, I’ll admit, but using a lip balm with broad-spectrum SPF will prevent your lips from getting dry and sunburned,” said makeup artist Liz Washer. And don't forget to wear sunscreen on your entire face to prevent tan lines and protect your skin!

4. Slick them:

Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in "Ghost," 1990.
Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in "Ghost," 1990.Everett Collection

Once you've removed your makeup at night and your skin is fresh and slightly damp after towel drying, apply a rich, nighttime moisturizer to your skin and an even richer balm on your lips, says Washer. This is especially key if your bedroom is air-conditioned and/or dehumidified (if you're traveling, ask the front desk for a humidifier — most hotels have them if you ask!). Internal hydration is also very important for your skin, so be sure to drink lots of water!

5. Stay neutral:

Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio in "Titanic," 1997.
Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio in "Titanic," 1997.Everett Collection

We always think of bright red lips for Valentine’s Day, but that’s not the only option. Apply a creamy nude or pink shade, blot, then reapply for long-lasting color that won't make a mess. “Avoid deep shades, especially in glossy formulas. They are too messy and don't look kissable," said makeup artist Jennifer Trotter of Lip Service Makeup. "Also, avoid matte lip color and long-wearing formulations — both dry out your lips and don't provide that lush look that is just right for your hot Valentine's date.”

See more of the most memorable kisses in history:

Most memorable kisses of all time

Slideshow  38 photos

Most memorable kisses of all time

Rhett and Scarlett, Will and Kate, Bogart and Bergman, even Britney and Madonna – they all shared iconic lip-locks. Get in the mood for Valentine’s Day with our colorful guide to classic kisses.

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This story was originally published on Feb. 13, 2015.