How To Match Your Lip Liner To Your Lipstick for a Flawless Lip Look

Lip liner is a type of pigmented pencil used to outline, color, and define your lips. While some see it as an optional complement to lipstick, it can be a game-changer for anyone seeking more definition, longer-lasting color, or a fuller-looking pout. Using one can help enhance your lip shape, create symmetry, and even extend the wear time of your lip color.

Of course, you’ll only reap these benefits if you choose the right lip liner and apply it properly. So below, we’ll teach you how to choose a lip liner that complements your lipstick, gloss, or lip oil and share some of our favorite application tips for a crisp, defined finish every time.

Should Lip Liner Be Darker Than Lipstick?

While makeup has no hard-and-fast rules, wearing a lip liner that matches your lipstick—in both shade and finish—is one of the easiest ways to get a flawless lip look. As we mentioned, the main purpose of liner is to create definition and a base for your lipstick; when the shades and formulas align, your look is more cohesive and tends to last longer. 

That being said, some prefer using a lip liner that’s slightly deeper than their lipstick for extra definition or a subtle contoured effect. That’s fine, but take care not to pick anything too dark—having a high contrast between your lip line and lips can result in an unnatural look.

How To Choose the Best Lip Liner for Your Look

If you’re on the hunt for a lip liner that matches your favorite lipstick or gloss, keep reading. Ahead, we’re breaking down how to find your perfect match. 

Choose a similar finish

Both lipsticks and lip liners come in an array of finishes, from glossy to matte. For a seamless look, it’s best to pair like with like—in other words, make sure your chosen products have the same finish. 

Matte lipsticks, for example, should generally be paired with matte lip liners. If you’re wearing a satin lipstick or something with a high-shine finish, on the other hand, you’ll typically want to pick a lip liner that has a bit of sheen to it. For the latter, the L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner is an excellent pick. The pigmented lip pencil is infused with vitamin E and omega-3s and glides on easily to provide lasting color and definition. Plus, the shades pair perfectly with those in the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick collection, which takes the guesswork out of finding your perfect lip combo.

Keep in mind that you can pair matte lip liner with a glossy lip (or vice versa), but the end result will be less seamless, more intentionally “done.” That being said, feel free to experiment with different lip liner and lipstick combinations to find a match that suits your vibe.

Pick the right color

Typically, you’ll want to use a lip liner color that closely matches your lipstick to ensure a seamless-looking finish. If you prefer a more dramatic look or want to add definition, you can opt for a slightly darker lip liner and use it to contour your lips for a subtle gradient effect. 

To ensure a flattering result, make sure the liner you choose is in the same color family and has the same undertones as your lipstick. That means warm lipsticks—think corals, orange-reds, and browns—should typically be paired with warm-toned lip liners. Cool-toned lipsticks (including soft pinks, mauves, and blue-reds) should usually be paired with a cool-toned liner. The reason for this is simple: Cool tones and warm tones clash, and using both to create one lip look will generally result in a less-than-harmonious finish. If you’re ever unsure whether your lipstick is cool or warm, take a look at the label—oftentimes, the “temperature” of the product will be designated by a W (warm), C (cool), or N (neutral, which is neither warm nor cool). 

How To Use Lip Liner for a Defined Lip Look

Knowing how to choose the perfect lipstick liner for your look is only part of the equation—you also need to know how to apply it the right way. If you need help getting started, we’re sharing an easy-to-follow tutorial below.

1. Exfoliate and hydrate

Just like prepping your skin before applying makeup can help ensure a smooth application, so can prepping your lips. Before uncapping your lip liner, exfoliate with a hydrating lip scrub (if you don’t have a lip scrub, lightly rubbing your lips with a damp washcloth works well, too). Exfoliating helps soften the lips and removes flaky skin that could make your lipstick and liner look patchy and uneven. Once you’re done, smooth on a nourishing lip balm and let it sink in before getting started on your lip makeup routine. Or, drench your pout in hydration with a lightweight lip oil, such as the L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil.

2. Prime your lips

After exfoliating, dab on a lip primer to create a smooth base for your lip liner and lipstick. If you don’t have a lip primer on hand, you can use a tiny bit of foundation or concealer to blur your natural lip line. Then, lightly dust some setting powder on the outside of the mouth at the edges of the lips. This helps to prevent feathering and stops your lipstick from bleeding throughout the day.

3. Line and fill

Next comes lining your lips. Sharpen your lip pencil, if needed, then trace along your Cupid’s bow to create a defined shape. If you want to make your lips look plumper, feel free to extend the line just past the natural border of your lip. Continue tracing along the remainder of your top lip, then line your bottom lip as usual. Finally, use your lip liner to color in the unfilled portion of your lips—this will help prolong the wear of your lipstick and minimize fading, feathering, and transferring throughout the day.

4. Apply your lipstick

Next, layer your lipstick over your lip liner. Remember to select a formula with a similar finish as your liner. The aforementioned L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick is excellent for those who want a hint of shine, while the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick is the perfect pairing for a matte lip liner. Try a soft, pinky-nude shade like Worth It for a low-key feel, or go for a statement look with a bold red lip, such as Le Rouge Paris.

5. Clean up the edges

If needed, use a clean cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to clean up any errant lines or smudges around your mouth. This can help to reinforce that crisp, clean finish and ensure your lip combo looks flawless.

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris