Lip liner is that small step that makes a big difference: it defines your shape, keeps lipstick from feathering and lets you create super flattering combinations. If you grew up seeing the classic brown liner with gloss, you know what we mean.
In this guide we show you how to line your lips step by step and which combinations always work.
What does lip liner do?
- Defines the outline of your lips.
- Helps keep lipstick from bleeding outside the line.
- Gives a fuller look when applied right on the edge.
- Works as a base so color lasts longer.
How to line your lips step by step
- Prep: apply lip balm, wait a minute and blot the excess.
- Sharpen: a well-sharpened pencil gives more precise lines.
- Mark your cupid's bow: draw a small "X" or two short lines at the top of your upper lip.
- Define the center of your lower lip: a short line in the middle.
- Connect to the corners: with short strokes, from the corners toward the center.
- Fill in a little: blend the liner inward so there's no harsh line when your lipstick wears off.
- Apply lipstick, gloss or lip oil.
Trick for a fuller look
Line right on your natural edge or just slightly outside it at the center of your lips, never at the corners. Finish with a touch of shine in the center of your lower lip.
Combinations that always work
1. Brown liner + clear gloss
The '90s classic that never goes out of style. It's especially flattering on olive and deep skin.
2. Nude liner + nude lipstick
Choose a liner one or two shades deeper than your nude lipstick to add dimension.
3. Red liner + red lipstick
For a flawless red that won't bleed, use a liner in the same shade and fill in your whole lip before lipstick.
4. Pink liner + lip oil
A fresh, youthful look: line and fill with a soft pink, then top with lip oil for shine and hydration.
5. Wine liner + matte lipstick
Perfect for night or the cooler months.
How to choose your liner shade
- For a natural look: a shade close to your natural lip color.
- To match lipstick: the same shade or slightly deeper.
- If you only own a few liners: a rosy brown or medium nude goes with almost everything.
Tricks to make your color last longer
- Fill your whole lip with liner before lipstick.
- Apply lipstick, blot with a tissue and apply another coat.
- Touch up after eating, starting with the liner.
Find it at BeautyRosee
For your lip combos, look for these types of products:
- Lip liners in nude, brown, pink and red.
- Matte liquid lipsticks and liner-and-gloss duos.
- Lip balms to prep.
- Sharpeners to keep your pencils sharp.
And for the finishing shine, our Ultra Hydrating Lip Oil comes in packs: 1 for $10, 3 for $25 or 5 for $35. Find everything in our Lip Oils and Makeup collections.
Frequently asked questions
Should my liner be the same color as my lipstick?
Not necessarily. It can match for a uniform look or be slightly deeper for dimension.
Can I wear just lip liner?
Yes. Fill in your whole lip with liner for a matte, long-wearing finish, and add balm or lip oil if you want hydration.
How do I keep the line from showing when lipstick wears off?
Blend the liner toward the inside of your lip. That way there's no harsh edge.
Can I wear lip oil over liner?
Yes. It's a beautiful combo: liner gives color and shape, and lip oil gives shine.
Find your favorite combo
Play with shades and textures until you find the combination that feels like you. Discover liners, lipsticks and lip oils in our Makeup collection and follow us on Facebook to see them live.