Makeup artists possess a certain magic, their ability to transform natural features into something extraordinary is truly mesmerizing. They hold the power to not just enhance what already exists, but also to create illusions using solely makeup products. One such technique is the double lip line, a trick of the trade that can create the appearance of fuller lips when executed with precision, according to professional hair and makeup artist Kate Johnson.
Founder of The Bridal Beauty Team and co-founder of Glossed Finishing Studio, Kate Johnson has dedicated years to honing her craft and perfecting the art of makeup application. She shares her expertise with Parade to shed light on the secrets behind achieving a flawless double lip line—or enhancing it if it’s a natural attribute.
Technique is key when it comes to mastering this makeup hack. Johnson emphasizes that a double lip line can indeed make lips look fuller, but only if the makeup application is spot on. Done incorrectly, it can result in a messy, overdrawn look that misses the mark entirely. To help you navigate the nuances of this technique, Johnson breaks down all her expert tips for achieving the perfect double lip line.
So, what exactly is a double lip line? Johnson explains that it involves creating a second, lighter border around your natural lip color, effectively establishing two distinct lines. This lighter line, known as the Vermillion border, adds dimension and fullness to the lips. While some individuals naturally possess this feature, it can also be simulated to achieve a plumper lip effect.
The concept of a double lip line versus a normal lip line may seem subtle, yet the difference it makes in the overall appearance of the lips is significant. Makeup artist and social media manager Sarah Khursigara, who possesses a natural double lip line, often educates her followers on the transformative power of this technique. In her tutorials, she demonstrates how accentuating her double lip line can create a pouty, fuller lip look that exudes a more natural aesthetic.
Celebrities like Rihanna and Gigi Hadid are also known to rock the double lip line, showcasing how this technique can elevate any makeup look and enhance the fullness of the lips. The strategic application of makeup products can truly work wonders in achieving that coveted pout effect, as demonstrated by these Hollywood icons on the red carpet.
Johnson recommends the double lip line for individuals with asymmetrical lips or those looking to balance out differences in lip size. By skillfully blending the lip products, this technique can create the illusion of fuller, more symmetrical lips, ultimately enhancing one’s overall appearance.
To create a double lip line, Johnson advises outlining the lips with a lighter lip liner and adding a gloss for a more subtle look. For a bolder lipstick application, she suggests using a darker lip liner to create a shadow line outside the lips and then defining the natural lip line with a more neutral-toned liner, followed by a creamy lipstick application to complete the look.
When enhancing a natural double lip line, Johnson recommends softening the outer line of the lips with concealer and setting powder before defining the inner line for added structure. By strategically layering lip products and focusing on the center of the lips, individuals can accentuate their natural features and achieve a fuller, more defined lip look.
In her video tutorials, Sarah Khursigara demonstrates how adding a lighter color or concealer to the center of the lips can further enhance the pout effect of a natural double lip line. By following her expert guidance and experimenting with different makeup techniques, individuals can unlock the transformative power of the double lip line and elevate their beauty routine to new heights.
Johnson’s favorite products for creating a double lip line include Makeup Forever’s “Limitless Brown” shade for the shadow line, MAC’s “Subculture” for defining the natural lip line, and Charlotte Tilbury’s “Pillow Talk” for the finishing lipstick. By incorporating these high-quality products into your makeup routine and mastering the art of the double lip line, you can achieve a flawless, pouty lip look that exudes confidence and sophistication.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.