Lipstick that fades in the center, bleeds at the edges or wears off unevenly is usually missing one step: lip liner. Lining and filling your lips gives color something to grip onto, keeps edges sharp and makes any lipstick last noticeably longer.
What you'll need
- Lip Liner Pencil (12 shades)
- 2-in-1 Eye & Lip Primer (optional)
- Liquid to Matte Lipstick, Matte Liquid Lip Stain or Luxury Cream Lipstick
- Pure Lip Butter for prep
The tutorial
Step 1: Prep smooth lips
Apply a thin layer of Pure Lip Butter while you do the rest of your makeup, then blot off any excess before lipstick. Smooth lips make matte formulas look even and feel more comfortable.
Step 2: Prime (optional)
A tiny amount of 2-in-1 Eye & Lip Primer pressed over the lips helps color grip and is especially helpful for lip stains.
Step 3: Choose the right liner shade
Match your liner to your lipstick or go one shade deeper. For nude looks, pick a liner close to your natural lip color so the edge disappears.
Step 4: Outline in short strokes
Start with a small X at the center of your cupid's bow, then draw short, feathery strokes from the outer corners towards the center. Short strokes are easier to control than one long line.
Step 5: Fill in the whole lip
This is the step most people skip. Lightly shade the entire lip with liner. It acts as a long-wearing base, so if your lipstick wears down, the color underneath still looks intentional.
Step 6: Apply your lipstick
Apply lipstick from the center outwards. With Liquid to Matte Lipstick, use one thin coat and keep your lips apart for about 30 seconds while it sets.
Step 7: Blot and refine
Press a tissue between your lips, then clean any edges with a small brush and a little concealer for a really crisp line.
Liner and lipstick pairings to try
- Everyday nude: Lip Liner Pencil in Honeybun with Matte Lipstick in Terracotta Nude
- Classic red: Automatic Lip Liner in Scarlet with Matte Liquid Lip Stain in Velvet Red
- Deep berry: Lip Liner Pencil in Black Berry with Matte Liquid Lip Stain in Deep Burgundy
- Soft rose: Lip Liner Pencil in Antique Rose with Matte Lipstick in Dusty Rose
Quick questions
Should lip liner match my lipstick or my lips?
Match your lipstick for bold colors and your natural lip for nudes. When in doubt, choose a liner one shade deeper than your lipstick.
Can I wear lip liner on its own?
Yes. Filled-in liner topped with a lip oil or clear gloss is a popular, long-wearing look.
How do I stop matte lipstick feeling dry?
Prep with lip butter, use one thin layer and avoid layering several coats of matte formula.
