Best Lip Liners of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Lip liners are a must-have in any makeup kit. These versatile products can be used to define and enhance the shape of the lips, prevent lipstick from bleeding or feathering, and even act as a base to make lipstick last longer. Lip liners come in a variety of shades to match any lipstick color, and some even have a matte finish for a more subtle look. Whether you're going for a bold or natural look, a lip liner is a great tool to have in your beauty arsenal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil Cover #TOP 1
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil Cover #TOP 2
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil
ftb score rating icon 9.7
e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner Mauve Aside Cover #TOP 3
e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner Mauve Aside
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lip Liners

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil

800897108205
820 Espresso
1 Count (Pack of 1)
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil Cover
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Slim Lip Pencil, Long-Lasting Creamy Lip Liner - Espresso

NYX Professional Makeup Slim Lip Pencil is a long-lasting, creamy lip liner that comes in a variety of shades from auburn to orange and red. It's buttery soft and goes on easily, resisting bleeding. It's certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty-free brand, and it pairs well with NYX Professional Makeup lipsticks and lip glosses. Customers love the color range and how easy it is to apply, but some have noted that the packaging is difficult to open.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Creamy, smooth application
Wide shade selection
Affordable price
Rich pigmentation
What We Don't Like
Occasional formula or shade changes
Not fully smudge-proof

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil

23_42.98_charlotte (T.Linh)_
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil Cover
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil - Gives Lips a Fuller-Looking, Defined Pout - Enriched with Jojoba Oil & Hyaluronic Acid - Waterproof, Smudge-Proof & Transfer-Proof - Pillow Talk

The Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat is a versatile lip liner designed to give you fuller, more defined lips with its natural nude-pink shade that complements your skin tone. Its waterproof and smudge-proof formula ensures your look stays perfect for up to six hours, no matter if you’re eating, talking, or smiling, so you don’t have to worry about frequent touch-ups. Enriched with jojoba oil, this lip liner helps keep your lips moisturized and feeling soft throughout the day. Plus, its creamy texture glides on smoothly without tugging, making application easy and comfortable for a polished pout every time.

What We Like
Creamy smooth application
Long-lasting color
Beautiful natural shades
Soft texture
Highly pigmented
What We Don't Like
Difficult to sharpen
Higher price

e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner Mauve Aside

22094
Mauve Aside
e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner Mauve Aside Cover
e.l.f. Cream Glide Lip Liner, Highly-Pigmented Pencil For Shaping & Sculpting Lips, Semi-Matte Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Mauve Aside

The e.l.f. Cream Glide Liner offers a smooth and creamy formula that makes lining your lips easy and comfortable, with no pulling or tugging. Its rich pigment ensures your lips get a vibrant color payoff, helping you achieve a bold and defined look. The semi-matte finish provides a stylish, natural appearance that works well on its own or as a base for your favorite lipstick. Designed for precise application, you can effortlessly shape and sculpt your lips to enhance your smile every day.

What We Like
Smooth, creamy application
Long-lasting wear
Highly pigmented color
Great value price
Non-drying formula
What We Don't Like
Some shades feel a bit dry
Color may be too dark for some

L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner 601 Worth It

0071249690895
Worth It
L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner 601 Worth It Cover
L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Liner Pencil, Creamy Lip Liner with Omega 3 and Vitamin E, 601 Worth It (Pinky Nude)

The L'Oreal Lip Liner 601 is designed to help you shape and define your lips effortlessly. Its creamy texture allows for easy application, giving you that full-lipped appearance you desire. With added Omega 3 and Vitamin E, this lip liner not only enhances your look but also nourishes your lips. You won't need a sharpener, as it conveniently twists to reveal more product. Whether you fill in your lips for a natural look or layer it under lipstick for a bolder effect, this versatile pencil is a must-have in your makeup kit.

What We Like
Creamy smooth texture
Long-lasting wear
No sharpening needed
Natural-looking color options
Comfortable, non-drying formula
What We Don't Like
May require reapplication after eating
Occasional mild dryness

Generic 12-Piece Brown Lip Liner Set

Generic
Assorted
Generic 12-Piece Brown Lip Liner Set Cover
12-Piece Brown Tone Lip Liner Pencil Set, Assorted Colors

The Generic Brown Lip Liners offer a versatile collection of 12 pencils in various shades, allowing you to define your lips with precision and keep your lipstick from smudging. Each pencil features a smooth, creamy formula that applies easily and stays vibrant for hours, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day. With a range of colors from light to dark brown, you can find the perfect match for any lip look, whether natural or bold. The convenient 5.5-inch wooden pencils make application comfortable and easy to control for a flawless finish every time.

What We Like
Great value for money
Creamy texture
Easy application
Rich pigmentation
Nice nude and brown shades
#TOP 6

wet n wild Lip Liner Pencil

Chestnut
1 Count
wet n wild Lip Liner Pencil Cover
wet n wild Lip Liner Pencil Color Icon Lip Color Makeup, Dark Brown Chestnut

Get a well-defined pout with wet n wild Lip Liner Pencil Color Icon Lip Color Makeup in Dark Brown Chestnut. This creamy formula glides on smoothly and prevents lip color from bleeding. It's versatile enough to be used as a lipstick and lasts longer than traditional lipsticks. Makeup artists love it, and it has a 30+ year cult following for a reason!

What We Like
Smooth and easy application
Long-lasting formula
Affordable price
Rich, versatile color
Good product quantity
What We Don't Like
Color may differ from description
Longevity could be better for some
#TOP 7

Revlon Colorstay Lip Liner, 630 Nude

643793
630 Nude
Revlon Colorstay Lip Liner, 630 Nude Cover
Revlon Colorstay Lip Liner Makeup with Built-in-Sharpener, Longwear Rich Colors, Smooth Application, 630 Nude, 0.01 oz

Get rich color and definition for your full lips with Revlon Colorstay Lip Liner. This cult-classic lip liner provides long-lasting color that stays on for up to 8 hours without re-application. The smooth application of the liner helps prevent bleeding and feathering, giving you a lush finish. With a built-in sharpener, you don't need to worry about carrying extra tools. Choose from 14 beautiful shades to pair with Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick for a rich and complete lip look.

What We Like
Long-lasting color
Smooth, easy application
No feathering or smudging
Built-in sharpener
Pairs with many lipsticks
What We Don't Like
Tip may break easily

wet n wild Perfect Pout Matte Gel Lip Liner

661D
Lay Down the Mauves
1 Count (Pack of 1)
wet n wild Perfect Pout Matte Gel Lip Liner Cover
wet n wild Perfect Pout Matte Retractable Gel Lip Liner Pencil, Rich Creamy Long Lasting Color, Well-Defined and Flawless Application, Vegan & Cruelty-Free - Purple Lay Down the Mauves

The wet n wild Perfect Pout Matte Gel Lip Liner is a game-changer in the world of lip liners. Its unique polymer formula allows it to glide effortlessly onto your lips, leaving behind long-lasting color that won't budge. The Gel Lip Liner can be worn alone or under lipstick, and it offers the ultimate performance and comfort. The liner is specially formulated with a proprietary polymer and ester complex, which means you'll experience no tugging or dragging when applying it.

What We Like
Smooth application
Long-lasting color
Affordable price
Vegan formula
Secure cap design
What We Don't Like
Soft texture in heat
Slightly darker shade than expected

IS'MINE Matte Lip Liner Pencil Set

Color Set -1
IS'MINE Matte Lip Liner Pencil Set Cover
IS'MINE Matte Lip Liner Set - 12 Assorted Colors High Pigmented Natural Lip Makeup Soft Pencils Longwear Smooth Ultra Fine (Color Set -1)

The IS'MINE Matte Lip Liner Pencil Set is a great choice for those looking for a high-pigmented, long-lasting lip liner. This set includes 12 popular colors that are smooth and creamy, making them easy to apply without tugging or pulling. The colors are highly pigmented and can last for a whole day. Customers have praised the quality and versatility of the lip liners, noting that they can also be used as eyeliners.

What We Like
Smooth, easy application
Wide shade variety
Affordable price
Good pigmentation
Blendable texture
What We Don't Like
No shade names
Not fully smudge-proof

Sacheu Stay-N Peel Off Lip Liner

850019864762
p-INKED
Sacheu Stay-N Peel Off Lip Liner Cover
Sacheu Lip Liner STAY-N Peel Off Lip Stain — Long Lasting Waterproof Lip Tint with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E — Transfer Proof Matte Finish, Vegan & Cruelty-Free (p-INKED)

The Sacheu Peel Off Lip Liner offers a hassle-free way to achieve sharp and defined lips that last all day. Inspired by a popular lip liner technique, this product allows you to easily trace your lip line and peel away the tint for a smudge-proof finish. Infused with nourishing ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E, it not only provides a long-lasting color but also keeps your lips hydrated and looking plump. Suitable for all skin types, this vegan and cruelty-free liner is a clean beauty choice that enhances your lip care routine while delivering beautiful results.

What We Like
Long-lasting color
Natural matte finish
Easy application and removal
Non-drying formula
Buildable color payoff
What We Don't Like
Color may differ from images
Requires practice to apply perfectly
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Choosing the Right Lip Liners

Introduction

Lip liners are an essential part of any makeup routine. Not only do they help define and shape the lips, but they also prevent lipstick from bleeding and feathering. Choosing the right lip liner can be a daunting task, as there are countless brands and shades to choose from. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting a lip liner, and provide some tips for using it effectively.

Factors to Consider

There are several factors to consider when choosing a lip liner. First and foremost, you should consider the color of your lipstick. It's important to match the lip liner to your lipstick as closely as possible, to ensure that the liner blends seamlessly with the rest of your makeup. If you're unsure of which shade to choose, you can always test the lip liner on the back of your hand before applying it to your lips.

Another factor to consider is the formula of the lip liner. Some lip liners are creamy and moisturizing, while others are more matte and long-lasting. If you have dry or chapped lips, a creamy formula may be more comfortable to wear. However, if you want a lip liner that will stay put all day, a matte formula may be a better choice.

Application Tips

Once you've chosen the right lip liner for your makeup routine, it's important to know how to apply it properly. Here are some tips for using lip liner like a pro:

  • Start by outlining your natural lip line. Use short, light strokes to create a defined shape.

  • Fill in your lips with the lip liner, starting from the center and working outward. This will help to evenly distribute the color and prevent the liner from looking patchy or uneven.

  • If you're using a matte lip liner, it's a good idea to apply a lip balm or primer beforehand. This will help to moisturize your lips and prevent the liner from drying out or becoming uncomfortable to wear.

  • Once you've applied the lip liner, you can apply your lipstick on top. Use a lip brush to blend the two products together, creating a seamless and natural-looking finish.

  • If you want to add more dimension to your lips, you can use a second lip liner in a contrasting shade. For example, you can line the outer edges of your lips with a darker color, and use a lighter shade on the center of your lips. This will create the illusion of fuller, plumper lips.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lip liner is essential for achieving a polished and professional makeup look. By considering the color, formula, and application tips discussed in this article, you can confidently select a lip liner that complements your lipstick and enhances the shape of your lips. With a little practice, you'll be able to use lip liner like a pro and create stunning, long-lasting lip looks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of lip liner?

Lip liner serves multiple purposes. It helps lipstick last longer by providing a base and preventing it from fading or feathering. It can also be used to shade in the lips before applying lipstick for better adherence.

2. Should I get a lighter or darker lip liner?

When choosing a lip liner, it's best to opt for a shade that is one to two shades darker than your lipstick. This helps define the lips and prevents feathering and smudging. It's important to choose a lip liner in the same color family and with the same undertones as your lipstick for a cohesive look.

3. Is it really necessary to use a lip liner?

While not necessary, lip liner offers several benefits. It helps define the area for lipstick application and prevents bleeding. It also helps lipstick last longer, regardless of its formula (creamy, matte, liquid, etc.), by providing a longer-wear finish.

4. What is the rule for lip liner?

The general rule for lip liner is to choose a shade that is one to two shades darker than your lipstick. This ensures definition and prevents feathering and smudging. It's important to select a lip liner in the same color family and with the same undertones as your lipstick for a seamless look.

5. Do you really need lip liner?

While lip liner is not a necessity, it offers several advantages. Lip liner helps define the area for lipstick application and prevents bleeding. It also contributes to a longer-wear finish for lipsticks of various formulas, such as creamy, matte, classic tube, or liquid lipsticks.

Editor's Notes

During our lip liner research, we found 48 lip liner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 527,255 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lip liners list. We found that most customers choose lip liners with an average price of $6.89.

The lip liners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lip liners, including NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP, Charlotte Tilbury, e.l.f., L'Oreal Paris, wet n wild. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Lip Liners Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Charlotte Tilbury e.l.f. L'Oreal Paris Generic wet n wild REVLON wet n wild IS'MINE Sacheu
Color 820 Espresso Pillow Talk - nude pink Mauve Aside Worth It Assorted Chestnut 630 Nude Lay Down the Mauves Color Set -1 p-INKED
Item Form Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Pencil Liquid
Finish Type Matte Matte Semi-Matte Natural Cream - Matte Matte Matte Matte
Product Benefits Long lasting Creamy lip liner that defines & reshapes lips with smudge-proof wear & hydrating, softening ingredients. Creamy, highly pigmented and with a semi-matte finish. Defines, sculpts contours lips while enriching skin nourishing ingredients suitable for all skin types. Defines and contours lips, infused with Omega 3 and Vitamin E for satin color, and serves as a base for bold looks. Define Lips, Long lasting Defining - Seamless, flawless application Moisturizing Long Wear, Long lasting
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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