What is the reverse lip liner trick? Instead of outlining the lips first and filling in after, you apply your lip color first, then use liner to sculpt, correct, and define the shape on top — a technique that's especially flattering on mature lips that have lost some natural definition. In this special Mother's Day video, Nikol Johnson demonstrates the technique on her own mother while celebrating the pre-launch of the reformulated Nikol Beauty Shiny Velvet Cream Lipstick collection — eight creamy, clean-beauty, fragrance-free shades made in Italy.
Key Takeaways
- The reverse lip liner technique defines lips after color is applied, making it easier to perfect the shape.
- Mature lips lose volume and border definition — a waterproof liner restores both without looking harsh.
- Creamy, hydrating lipstick formulas flatter lips at every age; dry mattes settle into lines.
- Beauty has no expiration date — Nikol's mother proves a polished lip look is gorgeous at any age.
Why Reverse Lip Lining Works for Mature Lips
As lips mature, the vermillion border (the edge of the lip) softens, and color can feather into fine lines around the mouth. Traditional lining first means guessing at a shape before you see the color in place. Reversing the order lets you apply your lipstick, see exactly where definition is needed, and then sculpt with liner — lifting the Cupid's bow, balancing asymmetry, and sealing the edges against feathering.
Nikol uses her WaterProof Lip Liner Pencils for this technique — ultra-creamy, smudge-proof, and made for mature women in shades like Organza and Silk that pair with nearly any lipstick. For an invisible anti-feathering barrier that works with every color, the Crystal Clear Invisible Water-Proof Lip Liner is the universal option.
The New Shiny Velvet Cream Lipstick Collection
This video also marks the debut of the reformulated Shiny Velvet Cream Lipstick collection — a unique formula developed for mature lips with an ultra-creamy, smooth, hydrating feel and medium-to-high coverage that never sits heavy. Shades like Actually, I Can deliver that fierce, empowered color the line is known for. Nikol finishes the look with a touch of the Rose Lip Balm for extra hydration underneath.
A Mother-Daughter Beauty Moment
The heart of this video is Nikol doing makeup on her own mother — a reminder that her No Beauty Rules philosophy applies at 50, 70, and beyond. From a soft eye using the "Fresh Beauty" 3-Well Eyeshadow Palette to a fresh flush with the Cream Blush Stick in Palm Beach, every step is designed to reveal the beauty that's already there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you put lipstick or lip liner on first?
Either works, but for mature lips the reverse method — lipstick first, liner second — makes it easier to define the lip border precisely, correct asymmetry, and prevent feathering exactly where it happens.
How do you stop lipstick from bleeding into lines around the mouth?
Use a waterproof lip liner to seal the lip edge — either in a matching shade or an invisible clear liner that creates a barrier without adding color.
What lipstick formula is best for mature lips?
A creamy, hydrating formula with medium-to-high coverage. Ultra-dry matte lipsticks emphasize lip lines, while velvet-cream textures keep lips smooth and comfortable all day.
