The Best Lipliner Tips in 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to Perfecting the Pout

Lipliner has long been an essential tool in every makeup artist’s kit, but in 2024, it’s making a comeback with fresh techniques, innovative formulas, and new ways to enhance your lip look. Whether you’re a beauty beginner or an experienced makeup enthusiast, mastering lipliner can transform your lips, make your lipstick last longer, and add definition and dimension to your pout. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about lipliners in 2024, from the basics to advanced techniques, and offer expert tips for flawless application. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Table of Contents


1. Why Lipliner Is a Game-Changer for Your Lips in 2024

You may be wondering, “Do I really need lipliner?” The answer is a resounding yes! Lipliner does so much more than just outline your lips. Here’s why it’s an essential part of your makeup routine:

  • Shape and Definition: Lipliner helps define the shape of your lips, especially if you have naturally thin or uneven lips.
  • Prevents Feathering and Bleeding: Lipliner acts as a barrier to keep your lipstick from feathering into the fine lines around your lips, ensuring a crisp, clean look all day long.
  • Long-Lasting Lipstick: Lipliner can extend the wear of your lipstick. It acts as a base and helps keep your lipstick in place for hours.
  • Creates Fuller-Looking Lips: With a few simple tricks, lipliner can make your lips appear plumper and more voluminous.
  • Versatility and Customization: Lipliners can be used to create different lip shapes and effects, whether you want a classic, bold, ombré, or glossy look.

Whether you’re going for a subtle enhancement or a bold, statement-making lip, lipliner is an easy-to-use tool that can elevate any makeup look.


2. Understanding Different Types of Lipliners

Before you start using lipliner, it’s essential to understand the different types of formulas available. This knowledge will help you choose the right product for your needs, skin type, and the look you want to achieve.

a. Pencil Lipliners

  • Overview: Pencil lipliners are the classic, traditional type. They come in two forms: sharpenable and retractable. Pencil lipliners are generally creamy and can be easily smudged or sharpened for precision.
  • Best For: Precise definition, everyday use, and versatile applications.
  • Pro Tip: Choose a pencil with a creamy texture that glides on easily without tugging. If you prefer a sharper line, go for a retractable pencil that doesn’t need to be sharpened.

b. Gel Lipliners

  • Overview: Gel liners have a smooth, creamy texture and glide onto the lips effortlessly. They typically come in twist-up tubes and provide a soft, comfortable finish.
  • Best For: Those looking for a natural look or a softer definition without the harsh lines.
  • Pro Tip: Gel liners are great for blending and creating ombré lips, as they seamlessly melt into lipstick.

c. Liquid Lipliners

  • Overview: Liquid lipliners have a more intense color payoff and offer a bold, defined finish. They tend to have a long-lasting, matte finish and can be drying if not properly moisturized.
  • Best For: Bold, long-lasting lips with a precise finish.
  • Pro Tip: Liquid liners require a steady hand to apply, but they provide the cleanest, most dramatic lines. Make sure to let them dry to avoid smudging.

d. Retractable Lipliners

  • Overview: These lipliners are twist-up pens, so you don’t need to sharpen them. They tend to have a creamy, smooth texture, making them easy to apply.
  • Best For: Quick and on-the-go applications, without the hassle of sharpening.
  • Pro Tip: Retractable liners are perfect for travel or carrying in your makeup bag. Look for one with a built-in sharpener for added convenience.

e. Clear Lipliners

  • Overview: Clear lipliners are a relatively newer option on the market. They’re essentially colorless, but they create a barrier around your lips to prevent lipstick from bleeding.
  • Best For: Those who want a no-fuss, invisible solution to feathering and bleeding lipstick.
  • Pro Tip: Use a clear lipliner when you’re not sure about the exact shade or want to wear it with any lip color.

3. How to Choose the Right Lipliner

Choosing the right lipliner is key to achieving the desired lip look. Here’s how to make the best choice:

a. Match Your Lipstick

  • For a Cohesive Look: Always choose a lipliner that matches your lipstick shade. This ensures a smooth, seamless blend between the liner and lipstick, creating a natural, balanced look.
  • Pro Tip: If you have a lipstick in a slightly unconventional shade, find a lipliner that is one or two shades darker or lighter to match the undertones.

b. Match Your Skin Tone

  • Fair Skin: Opt for lighter shades like pinks, light nudes, and soft reds.
  • Medium Skin: Mauves, berry tones, and neutral nudes work beautifully on medium skin tones.
  • Dark Skin: Rich shades like deep burgundies, plums, browns, and dark reds are flattering on darker skin tones.

c. Consider the Lip Look You Want

  • For Natural Looks: Stick to nude or soft pink shades.
  • For Bold Looks: Go for deeper shades like red, plum, or even bold black lipliner for a dramatic effect.
  • For Plumper Lips: Choose a lipliner that’s one shade darker than your natural lip color, and avoid harsh lines that might make lips look smaller.

4. The Basics of Applying Lipliner for Beginners

If you’re a beginner, applying lipliner might seem intimidating at first. But with practice, you’ll master it in no time. Here’s a beginner-friendly, step-by-step guide to applying lipliner:

Step 1: Prep Your Lips

  • Start by exfoliating your lips using a lip scrub or a toothbrush to remove any dead skin.
  • Apply a hydrating lip balm and let it absorb for a few minutes. This will ensure your lips are smooth and moisturized, creating a better base for lipliner application.

Step 2: Choose the Right Lipliner

  • Select a lipliner that matches your lipstick, as mentioned earlier. Make sure the lipliner is sharpened for precise application.

Step 3: Outline Your Lips

  • Begin by outlining the cupid’s bow (the top center of your lips). Use light, short strokes to avoid harsh lines.
  • Then, move to the outer corners of your lips and outline the bottom lip.
  • Pro Tip: Smile slightly while lining your lips, as this will stretch the skin and help you apply the liner evenly.

Step 4: Fill in Your Lips

  • If you want your lipstick to last longer, fill in your lips with the lipliner as a base. This creates a smooth canvas for lipstick and prevents fading.

Step 5: Apply Lipstick

  • Once the lipliner is in place, apply your lipstick over it. Use a lip brush for a precise finish or apply directly from the tube.

Step 6: Clean Up

  • Use a concealer or a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes around the lipline for a sharp, crisp finish.

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5. Advanced Lipliner Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics, try these advanced lipliner techniques to elevate your lip game.

a. Overlining for Fuller Lips

Overlining is a technique used to make your lips appear fuller and more defined. Here’s how to overline your lips effectively:

  • Step 1: Start by outlining your lips along your natural lip line.
  • Step 2: Gently overline the top and bottom lips, focusing on the cupid’s bow and the center of the bottom lip.
  • Pro Tip: Avoid overlining too much at the outer corners, as it can look unnatural.
  • Step 3: Blend the lipliner with your lipstick to avoid a harsh, visible line.

b. Ombré Lips for a Gradual Fade

Ombré lips create a gradient effect, which is one of the hottest trends for 2024. This technique involves using two different shades of lipliner and lipstick to create a gradual fade from the center of the lips to the outer edges.

  • Step 1: Line the outer edges of your lips with a darker lipliner shade.
  • Step 2: Fill in the center of your lips with a lighter shade.
  • Step 3: Use a lip brush to blend the colors together for a seamless ombré effect.

c. Creating a Defined Cupids Bow

If you want a sharp, defined cupid’s bow, lipliner can help you achieve it.

  • Step 1: Begin by outlining the V-shape of your cupid’s bow carefully.
  • Step 2: Use a clear lipliner to outline the outer edge of your lips for added definition.
  • Pro Tip: Keep the lines clean and sharp to emphasize the bow.

6. Best Lipliner Products to Try in 2024

Choosing the right lipliner is essential for achieving your desired look. Here are some of the best lipliner products of 2024:

  • Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat: Known for its creamy texture and long-lasting wear.
  • MAC Lip Pencil: A classic choice for precise, customizable lip looks.
  • NYX Slim Lip Pencil: Affordable yet effective for everyday wear.
  • Pat McGrath Permagel Lip Pencil: High-end and highly pigmented for bold, statement lips.

7. Common Lipliner Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned makeup artists make mistakes, but knowing how to avoid common lipliner pitfalls can help you get the perfect pout.

a. Using the Wrong Shade

  • Avoid lipliners that are too dark or too light for your lipstick. Stick to shades that complement your lipstick for a balanced look.

b. Too Harsh of a Line

  • Overly sharp, harsh lines can make lips appear unnatural. Always blend the lipliner into your lipstick for a softer finish.

c. Overlining Too Much

  • While overlining can make lips look fuller, it’s important not to overdo it. Subtlety is key!

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8. Conclusion: Perfect Your Lipliner Game in 2024

Lipliner has become an essential tool in modern makeup, and with these tips, you’ll be able to master it in no time. From choosing the right product to advanced techniques like overlining and creating ombré lips, there’s a lot to explore and experiment with in 2024. Remember, practice makes perfect—so keep experimenting and discovering what works best for you! With these lipliner tips, your lips will always be on point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I really need lipliner?

Answer: While lipliner isn’t a must-have for everyone, it definitely offers benefits, such as defining your lips, preventing lipstick from feathering or bleeding, and creating a longer-lasting lip look. Lipliner can also make your lips appear fuller, which is great for those with thinner lips. If you prefer a crisp, clean finish with your lipstick, lipliner is highly recommended.


2. How do I choose the right lipliner shade?

Answer: The ideal lipliner shade should either match your lipstick or be slightly darker than your natural lip color for a natural look. When pairing it with lipstick, choose a lipliner that’s similar in tone or slightly deeper than your lipstick color to prevent the lines from looking harsh. For nude shades, go for a neutral or soft pink lipliner.

  • For bold lips (like red or berry): Pick a lipliner in a similar or deeper shade.
  • For natural lips: Match the lipliner to your natural lip color or a soft nude shade.

3. Can I use lipliner alone without lipstick?

Answer: Yes, you can absolutely wear lipliner alone for a soft, defined lip look. If you prefer a matte or natural look, simply apply lipliner all over your lips for a defined shape. If you want a bit of shine, you can top it with lip gloss or a balm. Lipliner on its own creates a more understated, matte finish that’s perfect for a minimalist makeup style.


4. How can I stop my lipliner from bleeding?

Answer: Lipliner is designed to prevent lipstick from bleeding, but sometimes it can still happen. Here are some tips to avoid feathering:

  • Use a lipliner that matches your lipstick to create a seamless blend.
  • Choose a lipliner with a waxy or creamy formula as they tend to stay put longer.
  • Outline just outside your natural lip line but not too far to avoid creating an artificial look.
  • Set with powder: Lightly dust translucent powder around your lips to create a barrier and keep everything in place.

5. How do I apply lipliner to make my lips look fuller?

Answer: Overlining your lips slightly is a popular technique to make lips look fuller. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Step 1: Lightly outline just outside your natural lip line, focusing on the top of your cupid’s bow and the center of your bottom lip.
  • Step 2: Blend the liner slightly inward toward your lips for a smooth transition.
  • Step 3: Apply lipstick or gloss, and finish by highlighting the center of your lips with a light gloss to create the illusion of volume.

Remember, subtlety is key—don’t overline too much, or it can look unnatural.


6. How do I make sure my lipliner and lipstick blend seamlessly?

Answer: To achieve a flawless, blended lip look:

  • Step 1: After applying lipliner, fill in your lips with the same lipliner or a matching lipstick shade.
  • Step 2: Use a lip brush to smooth out any harsh lines between the lipliner and lipstick.
  • Step 3: If you’re creating a more defined look, gently blend the lipliner into the lipstick with your fingers or a makeup sponge.
  • Pro Tip: For a more natural look, avoid outlining your lips too harshly, and blend the lipliner well into the lipstick.

7. Can I use a lipliner for creating ombré lips?

Answer: Absolutely! Ombré lips are a fun, trendy look that’s easy to create with lipliner. Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Outline the outer edges of your lips with a darker lipliner shade.
  • Step 2: Apply a lighter lipstick or lip gloss to the center of your lips.
  • Step 3: Blend the two colors together using your fingers or a lip brush for a smooth transition from dark to light.

This creates a beautiful gradient effect that makes your lips look fuller and more dimensional.


8. Should I sharpen my lipliner before using it?

Answer: Yes, it’s important to sharpen your lipliner to ensure precision and cleanliness, especially if you’re using a pencil. A sharp lipliner allows for a defined, crisp line along the lips. If you’re using a retractable lipliner, be sure it’s twisted up enough to allow for accurate application. Keeping your lipliner sharpened also helps prevent bacteria buildup in the tip.


9. How can I make my lipliner last longer?

Answer: To make your lipliner last throughout the day, follow these tips:

  • Prime your lips: Use a lip primer or foundation on your lips to create a smooth base.
  • Set with powder: After applying lipliner, lightly dust translucent powder over your lips to set the product and prevent smudging.
  • Use a long-lasting formula: Choose a lipliner that’s designed for all-day wear, such as waterproof or smudge-proof formulas.
  • Avoid touching your lips: Try to keep your lips from rubbing or touching surfaces to extend the wear time.

10. Can I use a lipliner to fix uneven lips?

Answer: Yes, lipliner is a great way to correct uneven lips and create a more balanced shape. To fix uneven lips, simply:

  • Step 1: Overline the smaller lip slightly to make it appear fuller.
  • Step 2: On the larger lip, draw a more precise line to reduce the size and balance the lips out.
  • Step 3: Apply your lipstick, blending the lipliner with the lipstick to create a seamless finish.

Using lipliner to balance your lip shape can create a more symmetrical, defined look.


11. Can I use lipliner as lipstick?

Answer: Yes, many people use lipliner as a standalone lipstick for a matte, long-lasting finish. Lipliners tend to have great color payoff, making them a great alternative to regular lipstick, especially if you’re looking for something that lasts longer. If you want a more comfortable finish, you can top it with lip gloss or balm to add shine.


12. How do I fix mistakes or smudges while applying lipliner?

Answer: It’s easy to fix mistakes while applying lipliner. Here are some quick fixes:

  • Use concealer: Dab a bit of concealer around your lips to clean up any mistakes and sharpen the line. A small, angled brush works best for precision.
  • Cotton swabs: For small smudges, a cotton swab can help you correct the line without disturbing the rest of your makeup.
  • Blend the liner: If your lipliner looks too harsh, use a makeup sponge or your fingers to blend it gently into the lipstick for a more natural finish.

13. Should lipliner be applied before or after lipstick?

Answer: It’s generally recommended to apply lipliner before lipstick. Lining your lips first gives you a defined shape to follow when applying your lipstick, ensuring a crisp, clean look. Lipliner also serves as a base, helping lipstick stay in place longer. However, if you prefer a softer, blurred lip look, you can apply the lipstick first and then use lipliner to gently define the edges.


14. Can I use clear lipliner instead of a colored one?

Answer: Yes! Clear lipliner is a great option for those who want to prevent lipstick feathering without altering the color of their lips. Clear lipliners work by creating a barrier around the lips to keep your lipstick from bleeding into fine lines. It’s perfect if you don’t want to worry about matching colors or if you want to use it with any lip color.


15. How do I make my lips look glossy with lipliner?

Answer: To create glossy lips with lipliner, follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Line your lips with your chosen lipliner, blending it into the lipstick.
  • Step 2: Apply a glossy lip balm or lip gloss over your lips for a shiny, plump look.
  • Step 3: For added dimension, apply a clear gloss or a shimmer gloss to the center of your lips to make them pop

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