Types of lips and how to do your make-up for each shape

The shape of your lips is one of the most defining features of your face. Identifying your lip type is the first step to knowing which colours and make-up techniques suit you best. Here is the complete guide.

Thin lips

Thin lips have their own charm, but people who have them often want to add volume. The technique: use two shades of lipstick to create depth from the centre outwards. You can also line slightly outside your natural lip line to add dimension.

Full lips

They are among the most seductive. If you feel bold, go for intense red shades to highlight their volume. If you would rather play up your eyes, choose nude shades that balance out the focus of your make-up.

Lips with a pronounced Cupid's bow

This heart-shaped lip type suits almost any style. Dark colours or a passionate red are especially good at enhancing such a well-defined bow.

Lips with an undefined Cupid's bow

The bow is there, but blurred. If you like definition, use lip liners to trace that line and give it more presence. Once defined, the bow looks very attractive and irresistible.

A trick to define your Cupid's bow: a dot of highlighter stick just above the lip, blended with your finger, makes lips look fuller without lining them. And if you want a natural colour you can also use on your cheeks, a multi-use stick for lips and cheeks dabbed on leaves a bitten-lip effect.

Upper lip fuller than the lower lip

A very attractive feature that can be enhanced with burgundy or earthy brown shades, which add fullness and depth.

Medium lips

The most versatile shape: it works with every kind of make-up. From nudes to passionate reds, browns, pinks and even blues and greens. There are no limits.

Lips fuller in the centre

They create a highly sought-after rounded Cupid's bow. To make the most of it: passionate red or burnt red shades that highlight this characteristic natural shape.

Wide or stretched lips

Very elongated lips are flattered by shades similar to your skin tone or slightly darker. Avoid very intense reds or very light shades that emphasise the horizontal width.

Downturned lips

The corners of the mouth drop slightly, which can give a serious look. With nude or brown lip liners and gloss you can add volume and visually lift the curve.

Upturned lips

The corners curve upwards, giving a naturally cheerful expression. They usually come with a small mouth: pink and coral shades are especially flattering.

Current lip make-up trends

Lip make-up is constantly evolving. In 2025, the trends include:

• Precision lip contouring: subtle lining techniques to create dimension without exaggerated overlining
• Satin textures and blurred lips: finishes that put comfort before geometric perfection
• Berry and mulberry shades: classic red updated with darker, deeper undertones
• Greige nudes: neutrals that redefine neutral for every skin tone
• Treated lips (treatment-first): the trend of prioritising lip care with moisturising actives before colour

Frequently asked questions about lip types

Can you change the shape of your lips with make-up?

Yes, within certain limits. With lip liners and lip contouring techniques you can visually change how volume and shape are perceived. Overlining (lining outside your natural lip line) adds perceived volume; underlining (lining inside it) makes lips look smaller.

Which lipstick colour suits every type of lips?

A nude matched to each person's skin tone is universally flattering. The "your lips but better" shade (slightly more saturated than your natural lip colour) suits every lip type and shape.

How do you make lipstick last longer?

To maximise wear: moisturise your lips first, apply a lip primer or concealer, line and fill in with lip liner before the colour, then apply the lipstick in two layers with a blotting paper in between to absorb excess oil. Matte finishes usually last longer than glossy ones.