Lip liner is the unsung hero of a perfectly defined pout. Whether you’re looking for a precise outline, long-lasting color, or a fuller-looking lip, a great lip liner can elevate your makeup game. It can prevent lipstick from feathering, add dimension to your lips, and even serve as a stand-alone lip color. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the right one, but after testing countless formulas, I’ve narrowed it down to my absolute favorites. These liners have the perfect balance of pigmentation, longevity, and smooth application, making them essential for any beauty lover.
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MAC Lip Pencil in Stone – $25
If you love a cool-toned, edgy lip look, MAC’s Stone is a must-have. This grayish-brown shade is perfect for those who enjoy a more unique, grunge-inspired lip or want to add depth to nude lipsticks. The firm formula allows for precise application, and its versatility makes it a staple for creating bold, defined lips.
Maybelline Color Sensational Shaping Lip Liner in Gone Griege – $8.50
This is my absolute favorite cool-toned, my lips but better lip liner. It has quickly become my go-to and most used. Plus, you can’t beat the price! It’s mechanical and self-sharpening. The tip is pretty fine, so I don’t have any issues getting a precise line.
Makeup Forever Artist Color Pencil in Wherever Walnut – $24
This multi-use pencil is fantastic for both lips and eyes, making it a versatile addition to any makeup bag. Wherever Walnut is a gorgeous pinky-brown shade that works with a variety of lip colors, and the formula is blendable but long-wearing. It’s a great everyday liner that pairs well with natural and bold looks alike.
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk – $25
If you haven’t heard of Pillow Talk, where have you been? This cult-favorite shade is the perfect pinky-nude that suits almost everyone. The formula is creamy but long-wearing, making it ideal for both overlining and filling in the lips. It glides on smoothly without tugging, and it pairs beautifully with so many lipsticks.
Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-N in MUAH-ve – $12
This peel-off lip liner stain keeps your lip color in place all day and night for fuss-free, long-wearing lip looks. Just trace along the lip line with a generous, even layer. Leave on for up to 20 minutes. After the formula has set, slowly peel the film tint off to unveil a smudge-proof, semi-permanent lip color!
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Liner in Dusty Rose – $22
This is a creamy formula that glides on to softly contour or fill in the lips completely. There’s even a built-in sharpener at the bottom! I like this shade, because it’s a slightly more pink version of my lips but better!
Tower 28 Beauty OneLiner Lip Liner + Eyeliner + Cheek Pencil in Work of Art – $15
This is a creamy, high-pigment, non-drying matte liner for lips, eyes, and cheeks to create infinite looks. I love this pinky taupe color – it is so flattering! Plus, this pencil is made for triple duty for cheeks and eyes, This is another great everyday shade and pairs well with so many other products!
KYLIE COSMETICS Plumping Lip Liner in Kylie – $18
Plump, define, and contour with Kylie Cosmetics Plumping Lip Liner, an evolution of the best-selling, ultra-creamy lip liner pencil. This comfortable formula delivers a smudge free lip contour that lasts all day long without feathering or fading. It’s a must-have for a fuller, precise lip. The shade Kylie is a pretty dusty pink color, too.
MOIRA Lip Appeal Plumping Liner in 003, Tease – $10
This liner is formulated to create a fuller-looking pout with bold, waterproof color that lasts all day. Enjoy a soft matte finish that resists feathering and bleeding, complemented by a mild tingling sensation for gentle plumping. It is retractable with a built-in sharpener.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Long-Lasting Velvety-Matte Lip Liner in Deep Taupe – $22
Glide on this pencil’s creamy (not shiny & slippery) formula for a velvet-matter finish or wear all over for lasting, velvety-matte lips. Deep taupe is a soft beige brown color that doesn’t pull too warm (at least not on me – which tends to happen)!
Tips for Using Lip Liner Like a Pro:
- Overline strategically: Focus on the center of your lips rather than outlining the entire shape for a natural-looking fullness.
- Blend it in: Use a lip brush or your finger to soften harsh lines and create a seamless effect.
- Layer for longevity: Fill in your lips completely with liner before applying lipstick for extra staying power.
- Choose the right shade: For a natural effect, pick a liner one or two shades darker than your natural lip color.
These are my holy grail lip liners that I always reach for. Whether you’re a fan of nude lips, bold colors, or a subtle definition, there’s something on this list for you. Do you have a favorite lip liner that I should try? Let me know in the comments!
