How to contour your lips like a pro

Portia Arthur

June 21, 2017 3:21 PM

Follow these tips to manipulate the shape of your lips.

Salma Munin

Women are pretty obsessed about contouring that is layering highlighter on top of shading in order to achieve a more chiseled looking face) and lip contouring another beast entirely.

Because contouring is all about creating dimension even when it comes to your lips a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that lighter colors are naturally illuminating while darker colors naturally toned things down.

Exfoliate

To begin, make sure the lips are exfoliated. Ideally, use a dry toothbrush to brush and buff lips lightly. It gets all the dead skin off the lips while stimulating them as well.

Prep your Lips

To adequately prepare the lips for the next step, select a non-oily lip balm and apply it generously on your lips.

Line your Lips

Use a pencil that is one or two shades darker than your natural lip color. Apply liner just above the natural lip line, but still close enough that it's still touching natural lip line this keeps the contouring more realistic.

Experts suggest you use a brush to apply concealer a shade lighter than the foundation around the lip liner for an extra amazing look.

Apply the Lipstick

Apply a lighter, nude shade of your choice onto the lips and blend accordingly.

Finishing Touches

Applying a small dot of gloss on the center of lips makes them appear larger, giving them that eye-catching pop effect.

Use a highlighter pencil or cream on bow and lip center to complete a dramatic contoured lip.

Portia Arthur