If you hit links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Dee Mills / Byrdie

In This Article

Have you ever asked yourself:What islip linerfor, anyway?

If you feel seen right now, you are not alone!

A woman with glossy, peach-y colored lips

Dee Mills / Byrdie

That’s why we called in the pros.

Below, makeup artist andByrdiecontributorAshley Rebeccahas written a step-to-step guide to applying lip liner like a pro.

Keep reading for her guidance, along with other lip-lining tips from top makeup artists.

How to Use Lip Liner Like a Professional Makeup Artist

Byrdie | Design by Zackary Angeline

It’s common to havechapped lipsfrom time to time and to experience dry, flaky skin.

Yet focusing on keeping your lips smooth and hydrated will go a long way.

There are some simple ways to ensure your lips look and feel hydrated.

Woman traces her cupid’s bow with lip liner

Dee Mills / Byrdie

Prepping your lips at night is also an incredibly easy way to ensure your lips are on point 24/7.

Slather on a lip mask before bed so you wake in the morning to a super-soft pout.

(Check out some of our favoriteshere.)

Woman fills in her bottom lip with lip liner

Dee Mills / Byrdie

If you apply too much, just blot away the excess with a tissue or your finger.

Look in the mirror and ask yourself a few questions.

“What do I love about my lips?”

Close up of a woman with partially lined lips

Dee Mills / Byrdie

and “What would I like to change about them?”

are two great places to start.

And don’t count out clear lip liner!

Close up of a woman applying lipstick

Dee Mills / Byrdie

This creates the illusion of a much fuller bottom lip.

It is a trick I often use to enhance the shape of lips for photoshoots.

Want to know another great trick?

Close up of a woman topping off her lipstick with lip gloss

Dee Mills / Byrdie

Now it’s time to apply your lipstick.

There are a few ways you’re free to clean up your lip’s shape.

The Final Look

Congratulations, you’re now a lip liner pro.

A woman with glossy lipstick and lip gloss

Dee Mills / Byrdie