lip makeup How to Use Lip Liner

You may be thinking to yourself: Is there really a right way to use lip liner? The answer is most definitely yes. You might also be under the assumption that lip liner is outdated—but that’s not the case! Sure, it is possible to go overboard with lip liner, but when you use a delicate hand, lip liner can seriously take your pout to the next level when used alongside your lipstick. Below, keep reading to learn how to use lip liner as part of your makeup routine so that you can create super-trendy makeup looks.

WHY YOU SHOULD USE LIP LINER

Why do we love lip liner? Let us count the ways! Here are the top reasons why we think lip liner is a makeup bag must-have. 

1. It can add definition to your lips. Let’s be real: Who doesn’t want a fuller-looking pout? Defined lips are within reach with the help of trusty lip liner. If you want to add definition to your lips, pair your existing lip pencil with a lighter one that will act as a highlight pencil. This will help keep the lip line clean and add shape at the same time. Start by applying the lighter pencil in the bow of your upper lip, right above the darker lip liner shade to lift and highlight the area. When you start noticing any wear and the corners of your lips start turning down, use the lighter pencil to highlight those corners and give you a sculpted look. 

2. It can help to prolong the wear of your lip color. Have you ever had to deal with your lipstick color bleeding or feathering throughout the day? Lip liner’s main purpose is to help prevent color from doing just that—which means you can wear any dark lipstick you heart desires. To help give your dark lippie staying power, line and fill in your lips with a lip liner first. Find a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade or use a clear lip liner. 

3. It can help to enhance your lip’s natural color. You probably don’t want to rock a deep red lipstick shade every single day. If your go-to color is nude (or no lipstick at all), try this next trick: Pick a nude shade that matches your natural lip color and lightly trace the natural lip line to define your shape. Then, buff out the edges into the center of your lips with a brush. Finish off with a layer of clear lip gloss to add some shine. Is this your first time dabbling with lip liner? Nude is a no-fuss, no-fail choice. You can apply it all over your lips as a base color and apply a little lip balm on top for the perfect nude lip.

HOW TO USE LIP LINER

Now that you know all about lip liner’s awesome benefits, it’s time to learn how to apply it. Follow this two-step guide and you’ll be a lip liner master in no time! 

Step 1: Part your lips slightly and apply lip liner liner using short strokes. Try to follow your natural lip shape for a more natural look. If your skin starts to tug as you draw the pencil across your lips, then you’re going too hard. 

Step 2: Trace the natural line of your lips with the lip liner and then blur it all together with your finger so that there are no noticeable lines. Lip liner acts like a base coat to help prep your lips for lipstick. After you finish applying your lipstick, soften the edges with the lip liner to blend everything together. 

OUR BEST LIP LINER and LIPSTICK COMBOS

It’s time to put your newfound lip liner knowledge to the test! To perfect your look, consider the lipstick and lip liner combos below.

If you love looking pretty in pink…go with the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte Mandate and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in Best Mattes.

Love a true red?…Use the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Devil’s Matte-vocate Red and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in In-Matte-uated With You.

If you love light purple…try a new lip look using the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in At the Drop of a Matte and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Riche Lip Liner in Strike a Matte-ch.

Want to switch up your lip look for winter?...Use the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte-itude and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in Matte-ing Call.

Calling all chocoholics…the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in He Thinks He’s Matte-cho and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in Matte-stermind pair together for the perfect brown pout.

If you like pushing beauty boundaries…slay with a purple, wine-stained pout using the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte-jestic and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in Curiosity Killed the Matte.

If you want to turn up the heat…create an orange-red lip using the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick in Matte At Bat and L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lip Liner in Matte in Manhattan.

Now take a peek in the mirror—you officially know how to use lip liner! Now that you’ve mastered that perky pout technique, why not add a new lipstick finish to your routine? Just read our article, How to Find your Metallic Lipstick Match, and you’ll be making a beeline to the drugstore in no time.