A lip liner is an essential lip makeup product that deserves a permanent spot in your routine. The best lip liner can sculpt and define your lips, help them appear fuller and can also help prolong the look of your lipstick.

Our general rule of thumb is to choose a lip liner shade that has the same undertones and is within the same color family as your lipstick shade. It should also be no more than two shades darker than your lipstick. For example: if you’re creating a bold red lip, choose a red lip liner that has the same undertones to complement and define your look. Need help deciding which lip liner shade is best for you or your desired look? Chat Live with one of our Estée Lauder advisors for expert advice.

You can wear lip liner alone. Fill in your lips with a long lasting lip liner for a look that can take you through the day. You can also cover your lips in liner and apply a lipstick shade over it for an extra boost of color.

Our new and improved Double Wear 24-H Stay-in-Place Lip Liner does exactly what it claims. This long lasting lip liner provides 24-hour wear that is transfer-resistant and smudge-proof in a velvet-matte, comfortable finish. The formula creates high-impact color that stays color true. It also has lip care benefits, moisturizing and conditioning lips throughout wear and over time.

Step 1: Before you apply lip liner, prep your lips so that they’re smooth and moisturized. Use a lip balm like Pure Color Envy Lip Balm to nourish and condition. Or, use Pure Color Envy Lip Volumizer for moisture and a plumping effect.

Step 2: Choose the best lip liner shade that goes with your lipstick.

Step 3: Begin lining your lips, using long, gentle strokes and following your natural lip line starting just below your Cupid’s bow.

Step 4: Once your lip liner is in place, fill in the rest of your lips with your chosen lipstick shade.