What Is Overlining?
Overlining is the technique of applying lip liner slightly outside your natural lip line to create the appearance of fuller, more defined lips. When done subtly and correctly, it's completely undetectable and can enhance your natural lip shape beautifully.
The key to successful overlining is subtlety. The goal isn't to dramatically change your lip shape, but rather to enhance what you have and create a more polished, defined look. Think of it as a gentle enhancement, not a transformation.
Step-by-Step Overlining Guide
Prep Your Lips
Start with clean, exfoliated lips. Gently buff away any dry skin with a lip scrub or soft toothbrush, then apply a thin layer of lip balm. Blot away excess balm so your liner has something to grip onto.
Choose the Right Liner
Select a lip liner that matches your natural lip color or is one shade darker than your lipstick. For a more natural look, choose a liner that's close to your lip color. For definition, go slightly darker.
Start with Your Cupid's Bow
Begin by defining your Cupid's bow. Follow your natural shape, but you can slightly round it out if you want a softer look. Don't overline the Cupid's bow too much—this is where overlining is most noticeable.
Overline the Center
On the center of your top and bottom lips, you can overline by about 1-2mm. This creates the illusion of fullness without looking obvious.
Follow Your Natural Shape
As you move toward the corners of your mouth, gradually bring the line back to your natural lip line. Overlining the corners can look unnatural, so keep it subtle there.
Fill and Blend
Fill in your lips with the liner, then apply your lipstick. Use a lip brush to blend the liner and lipstick together for a seamless finish. This helps the overlining look more natural.
Common Overlining Mistakes to Avoid
Overlining too much
More isn't always better. Subtle overlining looks natural; excessive overlining looks obvious and can actually make your lips look smaller.
Using a liner that's too dark
A liner that's dramatically darker than your lipstick creates a harsh, obvious line. Match it closely to your lipstick for a seamless look.
Overlining the corners
This is a dead giveaway. Keep the corners natural and only overline the center portions of your lips.
Not blending
A harsh line between your liner and lipstick looks unnatural. Always blend for a seamless finish.
Editor's Picks: Best Lip Liners for Overlining
All products have been selected by our editorial team; we may earn a commission on some.
MAC Cosmetics
Lip Pencil in Spice
A cult-favorite neutral shade that works with almost any lipstick. This creamy, long-wearing formula glides on smoothly and stays put all day.
Shop at MAC Cosmetics
Charlotte Tilbury
Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk
The perfect nude-pink that enhances your natural lip color. This long-wearing, waterproof formula is ideal for overlining because it stays put.
Shop at Charlotte Tilbury
NYX Professional Makeup
Slim Lip Pencil in Natural
An affordable option that doesn't compromise on quality. This creamy, highly pigmented liner comes in a wide range of shades.
Shop at NYXPro Tips for Perfect Overlining
Use a sharp pencil: A sharp lip liner gives you more precision and control. Keep a sharpener handy and sharpen before each use.
Work in natural light: Overlining requires precision, and natural light helps you see exactly where you're applying the product.
Start with a light hand: You can always build up, but it's harder to remove excess. Start subtle and add more if needed.
Practice makes perfect: Overlining is a skill that improves with practice. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't look perfect the first time.
Ready to Perfect Your Pout?
Once you've mastered overlining, use GlowLip's virtual try-on to see how different lipstick shades look with your enhanced lip shape. Experiment with colors and find your perfect match.
Try On Lipsticks NowShades Mentioned in This Article
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is overlining lips?
Overlining is a makeup technique where you apply lipstick or lip liner slightly outside your natural lip line to create the appearance of fuller, more defined lips. It's a popular technique for enhancing lip shape and size.
How do I overline my lips?
Start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips. Use a lip liner that matches your lipstick or natural lip color. Draw just slightly outside your natural lip line, focusing on the cupid's bow and center of your bottom lip. Fill in with lipstick and blend the edges for a natural look.
What lip liner should I use for overlining?
Use a lip liner that matches your lipstick color or is slightly darker. Choose a creamy formula that's easy to blend. Avoid going too far outside your natural lip line—subtle overlining looks more natural than dramatic overlining.
Can overlining look natural?
Yes, subtle overlining can look very natural when done correctly. The key is to only go slightly outside your natural lip line (1-2mm) and blend the edges well. Avoid going too far outside your natural shape, which can look obvious.
What lipstick finishes work best for overlining?
Matte and satin finishes work best for overlining as they provide better definition and stay in place. Glossy finishes can make overlined lips look less defined. Matte lipsticks help create clean, sharp lines.