Types Of Lip Shapes: Which One Do You Have?

Lips come in all shapes and sizes, and each type offers a unique beauty that can be accentuated with makeup. Understanding the different lip shapes can not only help you choose the right lipstick shades but also guide you in enhancing your lips with specific techniques. Whether your lips are full, thin, round, or bow-shaped, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your natural lip features.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the different types of lips, how to identify your own lip shape, and makeup tips to highlight your best features. So, which lip shape do you have, and how can you bring it to life? Let’s find out!

What Are Lip Shapes?

Lip shapes refer to the natural structure and contours of your lips. These shapes are determined by the symmetry of your upper and lower lips, the prominence of your cupid’s bow, the fullness, and the distance between the corners of your mouth.

There are nine primary lip shapes that most people fall into, although you may find that your lips display characteristics of more than one type.

Full Lips

• What Are Full Lips?

Full lips are characterized by plumpness and volume, full lips have an equal balance of fullness on the top and bottom. These lips tend to have a more pronounced appearance, making them the most prominent feature of the face. Many people who have naturally full lips may already enjoy a natural pout.

• How to Make Your Full Lips Look Flawless

If you have full lips and want to accentuate them further, you can play with lip liners and glosses to add dimension. For a more defined look, apply a darker shade of lip liner along the edges of your lips and a lighter shade of lipstick to the center. This technique will enhance the natural plumpness of your lips and create a more voluminous appearance.

Though full lips naturally stand out, their fullness may be exaggerated when overlined. You can choose to use a clear lip liner or simply blend your lip liner well to avoid a harsh line, especially if you're going for a more natural, everyday look.

Wide Lips

• What Are Wide Lips?

Wide lips are characterized by their length. Unlike round lips, which are symmetrical in height and width, wide lips are more elongated horizontally. If you find that the distance between the corners of your mouth is greater than the height of your lips, then you likely have wide lips.

• How to Enhance Wide Lips

While wide lips can be a striking feature, they may sometimes feel disproportionate if not balanced with the rest of your facial features. To make wide lips appear more balanced, use a lip liner to softly overline the Cupid's bow and the center of your bottom lip. This will create a more balanced, fuller appearance that draws attention toward the middle of your lips.

For a more balanced look, try using softer, neutral shades of lipstick or gloss that don’t emphasize the width. Bright and bold lip colors can make wide lips stand out even more, so you may want to opt for subtle tones that enhance rather than exaggerate their size.

Thin Lips

• What Are Thin Lips?

Thin lips are characterized by their smaller size and less pronounced volume. The upper and lower lips are often slim and can sometimes appear less defined. While thin lips may not be as full as others, they have their own charm, especially when paired with the right makeup.

• How to Enhance Thin Lips

The best way to enhance thin lips is by adding volume and definition. Start by using a colored lip liner to slightly overdraw the natural lip line. A lip brush with precise control will help you define the edges without overdoing it. Apply a coordinating lipstick that matches your lip liner, and top it off with a gloss to create the illusion of fuller lips.

Gloss is especially useful for thin lips as it adds shine and dimension, making the lips appear fuller. When choosing a lip color, opt for shades that are close to your natural lip color for a more subtle enhancement, or experiment with bright, bold colors for a striking look.

Downturned Lips

What Are Downturned Lips?

Downturned lips have a natural droop at the corners of the mouth, giving the lips a slightly sad or serious appearance. This lip shape can occur due to genetics or age, as the skin around the mouth loses elasticity, causing the corners to turn downward.

• How to Enhance Downturned Lips

For those with downturned lips, the key to creating a lifted appearance is to focus on the lip liner. Start by applying concealer to the corners of your mouth to neutralize any shadowing that may make the downturned corners more prominent. Then, use a lip liner to angle your lip lines upward at the corners, creating a more lifted and symmetrical appearance.

You can also opt for lip gloss to add shine to the middle of the lips, drawing attention to the center and away from the downward corners. When choosing lipstick colors, opt for soft pinks, nudes, or peachy shades that won’t add too much contrast and make the lips appear more balanced.

Heart-Shaped Lips

• What Are Heart-Shaped Lips?

Heart-shaped lips are characterized by a prominent Cupid’s bow, creating a distinct V shape at the center of the upper lip. These lips are typically fuller at the top, with a defined line and a slight natural pout.

• How to Enhance Heart-Shaped Lips

To accentuate the natural beauty of heart-shaped lips, follow the natural shape of your upper lip with a lip liner, being careful not to smudge the sharp lines. Fill in the lips with a lipstick that enhances the shape, focusing on a smooth, even application. You can also use a lip gloss in the center of your lips to enhance the fullness of the top lip and draw attention to the distinct V shape.

For a bolder look, try pairing heart-shaped lips with classic red lip shades or deep pink hues, which complement the natural shape of the lips and add a touch of sophistication.

Bow-Shaped Lips

• What Are Bow-Shaped Lips?

Bow-shaped lips have a defined, U-shaped ridge in the center of the upper lip that resembles the shape of a bow. These lips are fuller in the middle than at the sides, with a distinct curve at the Cupid's bow.

• How to Enhance Bow-Shaped Lips

Bow-shaped lips are naturally defined, so it’s best to enhance their shape without overdoing it. Start by outlining the Cupid’s bow with a lip liner, following the natural curve to accentuate its definition. You can also use a lip gloss to enhance the full, pouty appearance of the lips.

To add dimension, apply a deeper lip color along the outer corners of your lips and blend toward the center. This will create a more sculpted look and enhance the fullness of your natural shape.

Round Lips

• What Are Round Lips?

Round lips are characterized by their equal width and height, creating a circular shape when viewed from the front. Unlike other lip shapes that have a more angular or elongated appearance, round lips tend to be more symmetrical, with a smooth, soft curve. These lips can range from small to large, but they maintain their roundness regardless of size.

• How to Enhance Round Lips

When it comes to round lips, the goal is often to add depth and dimension. Because round lips have a naturally full, circular appearance, you can create the illusion of more sculpted lips by using makeup to contour the edges.

To do this, start by lining your lips with a slightly darker lip liner along the outer corners. This will add a subtle shadow that visually elongates your lips. For a more dramatic effect, you can create a more exaggerated Cupid’s bow with a lighter color in the center of your lips to enhance the definition.

Another tip for round lips is to opt for matte lip colors that are darker at the outer corners and lighter toward the center. This will create the illusion of a more sculpted and dimensional lip shape. Additionally, adding a bit of gloss to the center can give a fuller, plumper effect.

Fuller Upper Lip

• What Is a Fuller Upper Lip?

A fuller upper lip is when the top lip is larger or more prominent than the bottom lip. This lip shape can create a striking appearance, with the top lip's fullness becoming the focal point of the mouth. A heavy upper lip is often paired with a more defined Cupid's bow, giving the upper lip a distinct shape.

• How to Enhance a Fuller Upper Lip

If you have a fuller upper lip, you can enhance the shape by emphasizing the upper lip’s natural curve. Use a lip liner to define the Cupid’s bow and extend the line slightly outside your natural lip line if you want to enhance its shape further. Be sure to blend the liner well to create a smooth gradient.

To achieve more balance, apply a slightly lighter or more neutral shade of lipstick on the bottom lip to make it appear fuller. This subtle contrast will help balance the top and bottom lips without diminishing the fullness of the upper lip. You can also apply a clear lip gloss to the center of the bottom lip to add dimension and create the illusion of more symmetry.

Fuller Lower Lip

• What Is a Fuller Lower Lip?

Fuller lower lips are marked by a larger bottom lip that naturally protrudes or appears fuller than the top lip. This lip shape gives the face a more pouty, prominent look, with the bottom lip often becoming the center of attention.

• How to Enhance a Fuller Lower Lip

To enhance a fuller lower lip, you can balance the fullness with makeup. Start by slightly overlining the upper lip with a lip liner to create a more balanced look. Focus on the Cupid’s bow and the outer corners to create symmetry between the upper and lower lips.

You can also experiment with glossy finishes to highlight the bottom lip’s fullness. Apply a gloss to the center of the lower lip for added shine, which will make the lip appear even fuller and plumper. If you want a more dramatic effect, use a darker lip color on the outer corners of the lower lip to create depth.

Enhancing Your Lip Shape with Makeup: General Tips

Once you've figured out your lip shape, there are numerous ways to highlight and accentuate your natural features. Here are some general tips for enhancing different types of lips:

• Use Lip Liner for Definition: A well-defined lip liner can help reshape your lips, making them appear fuller, more symmetrical, or better balanced. Apply lip liner along the outer edges, and blend it inward for a more natural look.
• Gloss for Fullness: Lip gloss adds dimension and shine, making your lips look fuller. Apply gloss to the center of your lips for a plumping effect. If you have thinner lips, gloss is a great way to create the illusion of volume.
• Contouring with Lipsticks: Darker shades can create shadows that add depth and dimension to your lips. Use a deeper shade in the corners and a lighter shade in the center to create a fuller, more contoured appearance.
• Experiment with Color: The color of your lipstick can either enhance or downplay the features of your lip shape. For example, bold reds and dark tones work beautifully with heart-shaped and bow-shaped lips, while lighter shades can soften fuller lips.
• Avoid Overlining for Subtle Shapes: If you have naturally well-shaped lips, overlining may not be necessary. Instead, enhance your natural lip shape with a precise application of lipstick and liner that complements your features.

Lip Shape Myths and Misconceptions

• Myth #1: Full Lips Are the Most Attractive

Every lip shape is beautiful, and what matters most is how comfortable you feel in your natural appearance. Society’s standards of beauty may change over time, but embracing the unique features of your face—whether full, thin, or wide—is what truly enhances your natural beauty.

Many people with thin or downturned lips might feel pressured to enhance them, but there’s no need to conform to a specific lip shape ideal. All lip shapes have their charm, and the right makeup can bring out the best in any of them.

• Myth #2: Small Lips Can't Be Enhanced

It’s a common misconception that small lips can't be enhanced or given volume. With the right tools, techniques, and products, anyone can create the illusion of fuller lips. Whether you're using lip liners to overdraw, lip glosses for shine, or lipsticks that add depth and dimension, there are endless ways to make smaller lips appear fuller without overdoing it. Thin lips can be accentuated with a focus on the Cupid's bow, adding balance and contour without the need for drastic measures.

• Myth #3: You Can’t Overline Your Lips for a Natural Look

Overlining has become a popular technique to enhance lip shapes, particularly for those with thin lips. Some people believe that overlining makes lips look unnatural, but when done properly, it can add subtle fullness and definition. The key is to use a lip liner that matches your natural lip color and to blend the liner well with the lipstick. Overlining slightly outside your natural lip line in a controlled, precise manner can enhance your lips without making them look overly exaggerated.

• Myth #4: Lip Shapes Can’t Be Balanced

If your top or bottom lip is fuller than the other, you might feel like your lips are unbalanced. However, this isn’t the case—lip shapes can always be balanced with makeup. If you have a fuller upper lip, overlining the lower lip slightly with lip liner can create a more symmetrical appearance. Conversely, for a fuller lower lip, overline the top lip to balance the proportions. Makeup allows for flexibility, and with the right techniques, you can create perfect harmony between the top and bottom lips.

• Myth #5: Lip Shape Doesn’t Affect Makeup Choices

Your lip shape plays a significant role in determining what types of lip makeup products will look best. For instance, fuller lips may benefit from matte finishes, while thinner lips might look more enhanced with gloss. Similarly, round lips may benefit from contouring, while heart-shaped lips look great with defined Cupid’s bows. Choosing the right products based on your lip shape ensures that you’re highlighting your natural beauty in the most flattering way.

How to Maintain Healthy Lips: Tips for All Lip Shapes

Healthy lips are not only more attractive but also more comfortable. Regardless of your lip shape, maintaining lip health is crucial to getting the best results from your lip makeup. Here are some general lip care tips to keep your lips soft, smooth, and beautiful:

• Stay Hydrated

Dry, chapped lips can make any lip shape look less appealing. To maintain soft lips, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your lips plump and moisturized from within.

• Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliating your lips can help remove dead skin cells, allowing your lip products to go on smoothly and evenly. You can use a lip scrub or even a homemade mixture of sugar and honey to gently exfoliate. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can cause irritation and dryness.

• Use Lip Balm

Always keep your lips hydrated by applying lip balm regularly. Choose a balm that’s rich in nourishing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E. Opt for a product that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances to avoid irritation.

• Protect Your Lips from the Sun

Just like the rest of your skin, your lips need protection from UV rays. Use a lip balm with SPF to shield your lips from the sun and prevent sunburn, which can lead to dry, cracked lips. This is especially important for people with fair skin, but everyone can benefit from sun protection.

• Remove Makeup Gently

Always remove your lip makeup gently at the end of the day. Use a makeup remover or micellar water that is safe for sensitive areas like the lips. Avoid harsh rubbing, as this can irritate the delicate skin around the mouth.

• Opt for Nourishing Lip Products

When choosing lip makeup, look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or vitamin E. These ingredients will help keep your lips hydrated and soft, making them the perfect canvas for your lip products.

How Nikol Beauty Can Help Enhance Your Lip Shape

At Nikol Beauty, we know that every woman’s lips are unique and deserve the best makeup products to enhance their natural beauty. Our range of lip products, such as the Waterproof Lip Liners and our range of lipsticks, are designed to help you accentuate your natural lip shape and create stunning, flattering looks.

No matter if you have full lips, thin lips, or anything in between, our clean, cruelty-free beauty products that allow you to enhance your lips in a way that feels true to you. All our formulations are made with love and care, ensuring that you can create the perfect pout every time. Explore our collection of lip products and get personalized tips and tricks for your lip shape by visiting Nikol Beauty.