All Your Lip Liner Questions, Answered

What Does Lip Liner Do? 

Lip liner is the key to getting a Cupid’s bow shape to your pout. It adds definition to your lips. “Pair your lip pencil with a lighter highlight pencil to keep the lip line clean and can create lift and definition to the lip,” says Hall-Scarmana. “Apply the lighter pencil in the bow of the lip, right above your lip liner shade, to lift and highlight that area. Where you start to see the corner of your lip turn down, use the lighter pencil or concealer to highlight those corners to create a lifted and sculpted look.” For a light lip liner, we like the NYX Professional Makeup Slim Lip Pencil in Natural. 

Applying lip liner before your lipstick or lip gloss also helps prevent the color from bleeding or feathering. It gives your lip color something to adhere to and helps increase staying power. If all that color seems a little daunting, start with a clear lip pencil, like the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Ozone. 

How Should You Apply Lip Liner? 

For a smooth application and a seamless line, Hall-Scarmana recommends prepping lips with a light lip balm before applying lip liner. Part your lips slightly (this will keep your lips closest to their natural shape) and apply the liner using light, short strokes. Always follow your natural lip shape. If you start to draw the pencil across your lips and it tugs the skin, then the pencil is too hard. Try sharpening the pencil and warming the point between your thumb and index finger to soften it. 

How Do You Match Lip Liner and Lipstick?

Lip liner is not just for red lipped-looks; it’s great for use with pinks and nudes, too. “Pick a nude shade that is close to your natural lip color, and lightly trace the natural lip line to define the shape,” says Hall-Scarmana. “Buff out the edges into the center of the lip with a brush and layer with a clear gloss.” One of our favorites is the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Anti-Feathering Lip Liner in Nude Pink.   

Lip Liner Tip #4: Keep Your Line Smooth

For a smooth application and a fluid line, Hall-Scarmana recommends prepping lips with a light lip balm before applying lip liner. Part your lips slightly (this will keep your lips closest to their natural shape) and apply the liner using light, short strokes. Always follow your natural lip shape. If you start to draw the pencil across your lips and it tugs the skin, then the pencil is too hard. Try sharpening the pencil and warming the point between your thumb and index finger to soften it.