Lip Pencils

Lip Pencil: precision, definition, and staying power


A lip pencil helps define the contours of the mouth, slightly correct its shape, and improve the staying power of lipstick or gloss. It can also be used all over the lips as a tinted base before applying another product. Nude, pink, red, brown, or plum: lip pencils come in many shades to complement different skin tones and makeup looks. On MyOrigines, discover a selection of lip liners designed to offer precision, comfort, and ease of application.


The Main Uses of Lip Pencils


Usage Result
Draw the outline Define the shape of the mouth more precisely
Slightly adjust the shape Visually rebalance certain areas
Fill in the lips Create a colored base before applying lipstick
Create a lip combo Combining outline, color, and shine

Lip liner for better definition


The lip liner allows you to follow the natural line of the lips and create a cleaner look. You can choose a shade similar to your lipstick to create a subtle transition, or one that’s slightly darker to accentuate the outline. It can also serve as a visual barrier around the mouth to prevent smudging with certain very creamy or glossy formulas.


Using the pencil as a base over the entire mouth


The pencil can also be applied to the entire lips before applying lipstick or gloss. This technique helps even out the base color and can visually improve the staying power of your makeup. To avoid a look that’s too dry, choose a texture that’s soft enough and prep your lips with a balm if needed.


Must-Have Lip Liners


Lip Liner Pencil, Bourjois


Bourjois Lip Liner Pencil lets you precisely outline your lips and easily define the shape of your mouth. Its texture is perfect for everyday use, either on its own or paired with lipstick or gloss.


Phyto-Lèvres Perfect, Sisley


Sisley’s Phyto-Lèvres Perfect combines precision and comfort in a texture designed to glide easily along the lip line. It helps define the lips and create a clean base before applying lipstick.


Choosing the right shade for your lip liner


For a subtle look, choose a lip liner that matches your natural lip color or the shade of your lipstick. A slightly darker pencil creates more contrast and definition, especially in a lip combo. Nude, brown, rosewood, red, or plum shades can be adapted to your skin tone and chosen makeup look.


Applying Lip Liner Based on Lip Shape


To maintain a natural look, it’s best to follow the natural contour of your lips as closely as possible. You can make slight adjustments in certain areas, such as the Cupid’s bow or the center of the lower lip. If you want to create the appearance of fuller lips, extend slightly beyond the natural line only at the center rather than along the entire outline. A line that’s too pronounced will be harder to blend with the rest of your makeup.


The Lip Combo to Define and Highlight Your Lips


The lip combo involves combining several lip products in a single look. The lip liner defines the outline, the lipstick adds color, and the gloss adds shine. A popular combination involves choosing a lip liner that’s slightly darker than the color applied to the center of the lips, then blending the transition to create more depth.


Application for a precise line


Start by outlining the Cupid’s bow, then the center of the lower lip. Next, gradually connect the corners of the mouth with small strokes rather than trying to outline the entire mouth in a single stroke. For a more natural look, lightly blend the pencil toward the inside of your lips with a brush or your finger before applying lipstick or gloss.


FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Lip Liner


How Do You Line Your Lips with a Lip Liner?


Start with the Cupid’s bow and the center of the lower lip, then connect the corners of your mouth with small strokes. This method helps you achieve a more precise and symmetrical outline.


What lip pencil color should you choose to go with your lipstick?


For a natural look, choose a shade similar to your lipstick. For more contrast, you can use a slightly darker pencil and then blend the transition.


How can you make your lips look fuller?


Go very slightly beyond the natural lip line in the center of your lips, then go back to the actual line near the corners. Applying lip gloss to the center of your mouth can then accentuate the plumping effect.


What is a lip combo?


A lip combo typically combines a lip liner, lipstick, and possibly a lip gloss to achieve definition, color, and shine all in one makeup look.


Can you use a lip liner all over your lips?


Yes. It can be used as a base under lipstick or worn alone if its texture feels comfortable. Filling in the lips with a lip liner also helps achieve a more even color.


Should you apply the lip liner before or after lipstick?


It’s generally applied first to define the shape and create a base. It can also be reapplied after lipstick to slightly correct the outline.


How can you prevent lip liner from drying out your lips?


Prepare your lips with a balm, remove any excess before applying makeup, and choose a sufficiently creamy texture if you want to fill in the entire surface of your lips.


Can you use a lip liner that’s darker than your lipstick?


Yes. It’s actually a common technique for creating a gradient effect or adding more volume. Lightly blend the pencil toward the center to avoid a harsh line.


Lip Liners on MyOrigines


On MyOrigines, discover a selection of lip liners in various shades, from nude to deep red, to define the lip line, create a colored base, or achieve a lip combo. Compare colors and textures to choose a pencil that suits your skin tone, your lipstick, and the look you want to achieve. Complete your makeup look with our selection of lip glosses and lipsticks to create the lip combo that’s right for you.