Mastering the art of lip contouring to perfect your lip combo

If there’s one beauty trick that has taken over social feeds and makeup bags alike, it’s the lip combo. That perfect pairing of shades, textures, and finishes can elevate any look, but before you dive into experimenting with your favourite lipsticks, there’s a step you simply cannot skip: lip contouring.

Contouring your lips is about more than just defining the edges; it’s an art form that can create the illusion of fuller, more symmetrical lips, or subtly tone down a naturally prominent pout. Whether your lips are naturally big or petite, mastering this technique ensures your lip combo appears seamless and professional.

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A red sultry lip contouring, Image: Instagram/@kyliecosmetics

FIRST STEP

Start with a neutral lip liner that complements your chosen shades. For smaller lips, slightly overdrawing the natural lip line at the centre can create a plumper effect, while those with fuller lips can define the edges to achieve a balanced, sculpted look. The key is subtlety, overly harsh lines can undo the illusion you’re trying to create.

@christendominique Lip filler with makeup step by step! Lip Frame Pencil @Dominique Cosmetics Shots #contour #lipcontour #lipframepencil #makeup #makeuphacks ♬ original sound - Christen Dominique

SECOND STEP

Next, choose your lip combo. Matte with gloss, nude with a pop of colour, or even dual-toned shades are all on-trend. Apply the lighter shade to the centre of your lips, blending outwards, and deepen the outer corners with a slightly darker hue. This contrast enhances volume and adds dimension, giving your lips a natural yet polished finish.

@vanessa_gyimah The Perfect Pink Nude Lip Combo 🎀🌸💕 Products used: @wetnwildbeauty -Icon Kohl Liner Pencil :Simma Brown Now @maccosmeticsusa - Chestnut Lip Pencil @Juvia’s Place - Velvety Matte Lipstick: Chic @chanel.beauty - Rouge Coco Gloss : 726 Icing #liptutorial #pinknudelips #pinkliptutorial ♬ original sound - Vanessa Gyimah

THIRD STEP

Finally, blend and perfect. Use a lip brush or your fingertip to soften harsh lines, ensuring that every shade melts seamlessly into the next. A touch of highlighter on the cupid’s bow can lift and define the area, completing your lip contour with precision.

Lip contouring may take practice, but it’s the secret behind every enviable lip combo on the runway and Instagram alike. Once mastered, you can experiment with colours and textures confidently, knowing your pout will always look picture-perfect.