Creating the illusion of fuller lips is all about technique and choosing the right products. While thin lips can be just as stunning and expressive with the correct approach, many people love the look of a plump, pillowy pout.
Whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a bold, full-lip moment, the secret lies in technique. Keep reading to master how to apply lipstick on thin lips, choose the right lipstick for thin lips, and learn to layer products strategically to create a lip look that appears naturally fuller and balanced.
This step-by-step guide walks you through everything—from lip prep to the final gloss—so you can feel confident creating a beautiful, fuller-looking lip. With practice, you’ll find your perfect technique and make your thin lips a true standout in any makeup look.
Prepping your lips is the first step in makeup for thin lips and sets the stage for a fuller-looking pout. Start by gently cleansing to remove any residue so you’re working on a fresh canvas. Lightly exfoliate with a lip scrub or a damp washcloth in soft circular motions to smooth texture and help lipstick glide on evenly, a crucial step in prepping to apply lipstick on thin lips without emphasizing dryness.
Finish by applying a very thin layer of hydration with a nourishing balm, such as the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Balm-in-Lipstick with Pomegranate Extract, for a smoother feel. A Well-prepped pout make it easier to apply makeup on thin lips and ensures it applies flawlessly and stays put.
Lip liner is one of the most effective tricks when doing makeup for thin lips. Use a precise liner, such as the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner in a shade close to your natural lip color, to trace your lip shape and create a guide.
For a naturally fuller lip effect, slightly overline your cupid’s bow and the center of your bottom lip, but keep the sides of your lips true to your natural shape to avoid an exaggerated look.
When choosing lipstick for thin lips, opt for colors that add depth and dimension. A nude or rosy shade two to three shades darker than your skin tone works beautifully.
For a touch of shine, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick, which provides the lips with gorgeous satin color that does not smudge or feather.
If you prefer a matte look with a plumping effect, opt for the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick, which offers 16-hour wear.
For a truly defined finish, apply your lipstick to thin lips using a brush. This step is optional, but it can make a big difference if you’re focused on how to apply lipstick to thin lips precisely. Start at the center of your lips and work outward to blend seamlessly into your liner. This will also give you an Ombré effect, that will make your thin lips pop even more.
For next-level precision, use a bit of concealer after lining and applying lipstick. The L'Oréal Paris Infallible Skin Ink 2-In-1 Foundation Concealer is ideal for using a fine brush to trace around the lips, sharpening edges, and cleaning up any smudges.
Then, tap a highlighter like L'Oréal Paris Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick on your cupid’s bow and just above the center of your lips. This subtle glow catches the light, helping to make thin lips look fuller by drawing attention to their natural shape.
Once your lipstick is set and edges are clean, finish with a gloss or lip oil. This step is essential when you want to make thin lips look fuller, since the shine adds dimension and the illusion of volume.
Try L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil, infused with hyaluronic acid and tripeptides for a smoothing, plumping effect. It also adds a hint of color for days when you want to keep your routine minimal but still enhance your thin lips.
Thin lips are unique and beautiful, and makeup allows you to play with their shape whenever you want. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’re exploring how to make thin lips look fuller:
Lips can appear thinner over time due to a natural decline in collagen production, sun exposure, dehydration, and lifestyle habits. Maintaining hydration and using nourishing lip products can help restore suppleness and prevent further thinning.
You can enhance thin lips with makeup techniques such as overlining, layering lipstick and gloss, or using plumping products like L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil. For more lasting results, consult a dermatologist about professional options like fillers or lip treatments.
Yes, lip liner can make lips look fuller. When used strategically, lip liner can subtly reshape your lips and create the illusion of volume. Focus on overlining only the center of your lips and blending the liner inward for a natural finish.
Regular exfoliation, hydration, and the use of products enriched with hyaluronic acid or peppermint can temporarily thicken your lips naturally. Massaging your lips with a balm or oil also boosts circulation, giving them a fuller, more plump appearance.
While you can’t permanently reverse thinning lips, you can minimize this through consistent care, sun protection, and products that stimulate hydration and collagen production over time.
Next Up: How To Use Lip Plumper for a Fuller-Looking Pout
Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris
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