Lip liner application tips include prepping lips with a lip exfoliator, using light strokes to apply the lip pencil, and subtle overlining for fullness.
Pair your lip liner with other lip products like tinted balms, lip oils, or classic lipsticks for versatile makeup looks.
Popular lip liner shades include pink, beige, red, mauve, plum, brown, and burgundy.
In the vast world of beauty must-haves, lip products have been enjoying a serious main character moment. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and you’ll see endless tutorials, GRWMs, and hauls showing off everything from glossy tints to bold liquid mattes. But with so many lip favorites out there, it’s no surprise that things can get a little confusing—what’s the difference between a stain, a gloss, a filler liner, and a classic liner? Which do you *actually* need in your routine?
If there’s one product that has really taken center stage lately, it’s lip liner. Once considered a backstage step, lip liner has officially gone viral, and for good reason—it has the power to completely transform your look. The right shade and technique can create fuller-looking lips, define your pout, and make any lipstick or gloss last way longer.
That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about finding your perfect lip liner shade, plus our best application tips and product pairings (yes, we’ll be spotlighting our Cream Glide Lip Liner and Love Triangle Lip Filler Liner. Think of it as your go-to playbook for lining, defining, and loving your lips.
What Exactly Does Lip Liner Do?
Lip liner may look like just another pencil in your makeup bag, but don’t underestimate the power it holds. At its core, lip liner is designed to define the natural shape of your lips, creating crisp edges and a polished outline that lipstick alone can’t always achieve. By sketching in a border, it helps prevent your lip color from feathering or smudging, while also giving your lips more structure and symmetry.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Lip liner can also be used to subtly tweak your lip shape—slightly overline for a fuller pout, or correct uneven edges for a more balanced look. Plus, when you fill in your lips with liner before applying lipstick or gloss, it acts almost like a primer, gripping onto product and extending its wear time.
Over the past few years, lip liners have skyrocketed in popularity thanks to social media. TikTok and Instagram are overflowing with tutorials showing how a swipe of liner can totally transform your lip game—whether it’s the “clean girl aesthetic” with nude liner and gloss, or the bold, 90s-inspired brown liner comeback. With options like our creamy lip liner for effortless definition or our long-lasting lip liner for filling and shaping, it’s never been easier (or trendier) to experiment with lip liner. So let’s get into it!
When to Use a Lip Liner
Think of lip liner as your go-to tool whenever you want your lips to look a little more polished, defined, or shaped into a plush, sultry pout. The most obvious time to reach for one is when you’re wearing lipstick—especially bold shades. A liner creates a clean outline that keeps color exactly where you want it, so you don’t have to worry about feathering or bleeding throughout the day.
It’s also perfect for enhancing your natural lip shape. Maybe your top lip is a little thinner than your bottom, or one side of your Cupid’s bow is more pronounced than the other—no biggie. Lip liner lets you subtly balance things out for symmetry that looks effortless (even if it took a few strategic swipes).
And here’s where it gets really fun: lip contouring. By slightly overlining or shading the edges of your lips, you can create the illusion of a fuller, pillowy pout—no filters or filler required. Bottom line? Anytime you want your lips to look sharper, fuller, or longer-lasting, a lip liner is the move.
How to Apply a Lip Liner
Now for the really important part: application. Applying lip liner is all about precision—but don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks once you know the basics. Start by making sure your lips are prepped: a quick exfoliation and a swipe of balm go a long way toward keeping liner smooth and comfortable. From there, trace along your natural lip line with light, feathery strokes instead of trying to draw one heavy line. This gives you more control and a softer, more natural-looking outline.
Now, let’s talk technique. Overlining—where you apply just outside your natural lip line—has become one of the most popular tricks for faking fuller lips. The key is subtlety: stay close to your natural shape, and don’t take the line too far out, or it can look obvious.
Once you’ve mapped out your lip shape, decide what kind of finish you’re going for. A crisp, defined line adds polish and structure (especially with bold or dark lipstick), while a diffused line—achieved by gently smudging the edges with a brush, fingertip, or the flat edge of our lip liner pencil—creates a softer, blurred effect. You can even use your liner to fill in your whole lip before lipstick for extra staying power.
Why Choosing the Right Lip Liner Shade is Important
The right match can make your lips appear fuller, more balanced, and effortlessly polished. On the other hand, picking the wrong shade can throw off the harmony of your look and make your lip combo feel unfinished. That’s why shade matching is such an important step in creating lip combos that actually work.
For everyday wear, a nude lip liner that’s close to your natural lip or skin tone is a no-fail option. It subtly enhances your lip shape without looking overdone, and pairs beautifully with gloss or a sheer tint. If you’re going for a bolder lip combo, choosing a liner that’s a shade or two deeper than your lipstick adds definition and creates that trending, sculpted pout.
Of course, extremes can sometimes backfire. Using a liner that’s too light can leave lips looking washed out or even ashy, especially in photos. On the other hand, a shade that’s dramatically darker than your lipstick can create harsh contrast, which may feel too bold depending on your makeup vibe.
Bottom line: the right lip liner shade should complement both your skin tone and the look you’re going for. Nail that, and your lip combos will instantly look more intentional and polished.
Lip Products to Pair Your Lip Liner With
Lip liner is a game-changer on its own, but the real fun starts when you pair it with other lip products to create endless looks. Depending on what vibe you’re going for, the finish you choose can completely transform your lip combo.
If you’re craving something low-key and nourishing, our buttery tinted lip balm is your go-to. Paired with liner, it creates a soft, your-lips-but-better finish that’s comfy enough for everyday wear.
For extra shine, layer your liner with our hydrating tinted lip oil. The lightweight oil gives you that plump, juicy lip look while still letting the liner define your shape. Want even more sparkle? Swap it for our shimmer lip oil, which adds shimmer to your pout for a playful, light-catching finish.
And of course, nothing beats the impact of a classic lipstick. Pair your liner with our satin lipstick to turn your lip look into a statement—bold, smooth, and full-coverage. Whether you’re keeping it casual with balm or going full glam with satin, lip liner helps tie everything together and makes your final look last longer.
The Difference Between e.l.f.’s Lip Liners:
When it comes to lip liners, the details matter—formula, finish, and precision can change your whole look. That’s why we created two liners that cover all the bases (and then some).
First up: the Love Triangle Lip Liner Pencil. This one is all about precision meets pigment. With its unique triangle tip, you can easily line, contour, or fill in your lips without tugging. The formula is ultra-creamy and pigmented, gliding on smooth for a flawless outline every time. Bonus: it comes in a wide range of shades to match your favorite lip looks and can be sharpened to keep that tip on point.
Then there’s our Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil, your classic liner with a modern twist. Its pointed tip makes it super easy to get crisp, defined edges, while the twist-up packaging means no sharpener needed. The semi-matte finish locks in bold color that lasts, making it a must for statement lips or long days when you want your look to stay put.
Whether you go for the innovative triangle tip or the tried-and-true cream formula, both liners bring serious payoff and versatility to your routine.
Affordable Pink Lip Liner
Pink lip liner is the ultimate go-to for soft, fresh, and effortlessly pretty lips. Whether you’re going for a barely-there flush or a polished everyday look, these shades add just the right touch of sweetness while keeping your lip color in place. Pinks are versatile—you can wear them on their own for a diffused, natural pout, or pair them with lipsticks, balms, or oils for a more dimensional finish.
One of our favorites is the Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Truth or Bare, a peachy pink lip liner that brightens up your lips while staying super wearable for daily looks. If you love a soft, romantic vibe, the Love Triangle Pencil in Soft Pink is a perfect soft pink liner shade pick—its creamy, tug-free formula glides on to give you defined lips without ever feeling harsh. For a slightly more neutral option, our Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Pinky Swear is a beige-pink lip liner shade, making it ideal for pairing with nude lipsticks or clear gloss when you want that “your lips but better” effect.
Affordable Beige Lip Liner
Pink lip liner is the ultimate go-to for soft, fresh, and effortlessly pretty lips. Whether you’re going for a barely-there flush or a polished everyday look, these shades add just the right touch of sweetness while keeping your lip color in place. Pinks are versatile—you can wear them on their own for a diffused, natural pout, or pair them with lipsticks, balms, or oils for a more dimensional finish.
One of our favorites is the Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Truth or Bare, a peachy pink lip liner that brightens up your lips while staying super wearable for daily looks. If you love a soft, romantic vibe, the Love Triangle Pencil in Soft Pink is a perfect soft pink liner shade pick—its creamy, tug-free formula glides on to give you defined lips without ever feeling harsh. For a slightly more neutral option, our Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Pinky Swear is a beige-pink lip liner shade, making it ideal for pairing with nude lipsticks or clear gloss when you want that “your lips but better” effect.
Affordable Red Lip Liner
A classic red lip deserves a strong supporting act—and that’s where red lip liner comes in. Red liners don’t just define your lips; they anchor your lipstick, preventing feathering, smudging, and any uneven edges that can happen with bold colors. They also make your lipstick pop even more, creating a clean, polished finish that feels timeless and sophisticated.
For the ultimate, statement-making red, reach for Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Red Receipt, a true red lip liner that pairs seamlessly with everything from matte scarlet lipsticks to glossy cherry shades. Its precise tip and long-lasting pigment make it a staple for anyone who loves a bold lip. If you want something just as impactful but even easier to maneuver, our Love Triangle Pencil in Red is another go-to red lip pencil. Its unique triangle shape helps you line and fill with ease, so you can nail that sharp Cupid’s bow or perfectly even outline in seconds.
Affordable Hot Pink Lip Liner
If you like to turn heads, hot pink lip liner is for you. Unlike softer pinks or neutral beiges, bright pinks bring an instant burst of energy and playfulness to any look. They’re bold, confident, and perfect for days (or nights) when you want your lips to do the talking. Hot pink liners can also be surprisingly versatile—wear them with matching lipstick for a monochromatic moment, or pair them with a softer pink gloss to create dimension and contrast.
For a vivid punch of color, our Cream Glide Liner Pencil in Fuschia Forward is a striking fuchsia hot pink lip liner shade with a semi-matte finish that locks in bold lip looks. Its precise point makes it easy to define your lip line while filling in for longer-lasting wear. If you prefer something just as vibrant but with a unique twist, our long-lasting hot pink lip pencil has a triangular tip that makes lining and filling even simpler, so you can nail sharp edges or achieve a quick all-over base before applying gloss or lipstick.
Affordable Mauve Lip Liner
Mauve lip liners are the unsung heroes of the lip world—they strike the perfect balance between pink, nude, and plum, making them endlessly wearable. A mauve liner adds just enough depth to define your lips while still looking soft and natural, which is why it’s a go-to shade for both everyday wear and more elevated makeup looks. It’s the shade that flatters almost every skin tone and pairs seamlessly with a wide range of lip colors, from neutral glosses to deeper berry lipsticks.
Our Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Mauve Aside leans warm with its rose-mauve tone, perfect for creating a softly romantic look. This mauve lip liner’s creamy texture and semi-matte finish make it easy to use as both a liner and an all-over lip color. On the other hand, the Love Triangle Pencil in Mauve delivers a versatile mauve that enhances your lips with a rich mauve lip pencil pigment and the added benefit of its unique triangular tip for precise shaping.
Mauve lip liners are especially useful when you want definition without going overboard. Pair them with sheer balms for a polished no-makeup makeup look, or use them under a satin lipstick for a more dimensional finish.
Affordable Plum Lip Liner
If you’re craving drama and depth, plum lip liners are your shade soulmate. With their rich berry undertones and bold finish, they instantly bring a moody, sophisticated edge to your look. Plum liners are especially flattering for fall and winter makeup, but honestly, they’re a year-round statement shade if you love bold lips. They pair beautifully with deep berry, wine, and even classic red lipsticks, or you can wear them solo for a chic, monochromatic finish.
The Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in Plum & Get It is a striking blackened plum lip liner shade that adds intensity and dimension. Its creamy, semi-matte formula glides on easily and helps your lip color last longer, while still feeling comfortable on the lips. For a more versatile take, the Love Triangle Pencil in Plum offers rich plum lip pencil pigment with a precise triangular tip, letting you define, contour, and fill in your lips with ease.
Affordable Brown Lip Liner
Brown lip liners are the ultimate multitaskers—whether you’re going for a natural, defined pout or a bold, 90s-inspired statement. With shades that range from light latte tones to deep espresso hues, brown liners bring warmth, depth, and structure to any lip look. They’re especially versatile for pairing with nude glosses, lip oils, and lighter lipsticks to create contrast and dimension.
For a softer, everyday definition, reach for lighter tones like the Light Brown Love Triangle Lip Liner Pencil or Cream Glide Warm Brown Lip Liner in Spill The Tea—our light brown lip liner and warm brown lip liner both give a subtle contour that enhances your natural lip shape. The Cream Lip Liner Pencil in Mocha Move offers a balanced neutral brown lip liner shade, perfect for pairing with pinky-nude lipsticks. If you prefer something cooler, Espresso Martini delivers a cool taupe brown lip liner finish that feels modern and chic.
When you want bolder impact, the Love Triangle Pencil in Deep Brown or Cream Glide Liner in Dark Cocoa bring rich intensity with our deep brown lip liner shade and cocoa lip liner shade that pairs beautifully with deeper lipsticks or clear gloss for a high-contrast effect. And for a classic, versatile choice, Cream Glide Lip Liner in Doppio Espresso is a rich neutral brown lip liner shade that works with just about everything.
Brown liners are your go-to for creating dimension, experimenting with ombré looks, or nailing that polished nude lip—making them an essential in any collection!
Affordable Burgundy Lip Liner
Burgundy lip liners are all about drama, depth, and a touch of sophistication. With rich, deep red tones, they’re perfect for creating bold evening looks, autumnal makeup vibes, or adding a luxe, polished finish to your favorite lipsticks. These shades are versatile enough to pair with muted nudes for a subtle pop or with deep lip colors for a statement-making pout.
Our Cream Glide Lip Liner Pencil in That Merlot Tho offers a soft burgundy lip liner shade that’s rich without feeling too harsh, making it easy to wear both day and night. Use it to line your lips precisely for a defined, elegant shape, or try slightly overlining the cupid’s bow and outer corners to enhance the fullness of your lips. Its creamy, blendable formula allows you to soften edges with a fingertip or a brush for a diffused, effortless look.
Your ideal lip liner isn’t just about color—it’s about confidence, versatility, and the finishing touch that elevates any look. So go ahead, swipe, line, blend, and shine—your lips deserve it!