A Comprehensive Glossary: What are Lips Actually Called?
The lip is a feature we see and enhance every day, yet many of us don’t know its official parts. Understanding the precise anatomy of your lips—from the sharp ridges to the soft curves—is the first step toward flawless makeup application. Knowing what lips are actually called empowers you to define and enhance your unique shape with precision and confidence.
Our guide breaks down complex terminology into actionable beauty wisdom. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the health and structure of your natural features using ethical options, starting with high-quality natural lip products that fight the challenges of a dry lip. We believe in making every step of your routine intentional. To see our commitment to clean beauty, visit our homepage at gbnanibeauty.com.
Section 1: The Basic Anatomy for Makeup Artists
Let's demystify the key terms you need to know for achieving a perfectly defined pout.
What are the two lips called?
In anatomical terms, the two lips are known as the Labium Superius Oris (the upper lip) and the Labium Inferius Oris (the lower lip).
What is the lip edge called?
The sharp line separating the colored portion of the lip from the surrounding facial skin is called the Vermilion Border.
This border is the most crucial area for makeup application, as it dictates the shape and definition of your look. A crisp, clean vermilion border, especially when enhanced with a precise vegan matte liquid lipstick used as a liner, is the mark of a professional finish. Achieving this precision requires the use of fine tools from our Makeup Brushes and Tools Collection.
Essential Structures for Highlighting
- Cupid's Bow: The double-curve, "M" shape at the center of the upper vermilion border. Highlighting this area with a touch of vegan lip gloss creates an immediate plumping effect.
- Philtrum: The vertical groove or indentation running from the base of the nose to the center of the Cupid's Bow.
Section 2: The Shape Game and Ethical Enhancement
Beyond the anatomical names, lips are generally categorized by their aesthetic appearance.
What are the four types of lips?
The four types most commonly referenced in US beauty are:
- Full Lips: Both the upper and lower lips have significant volume.
- Thin Lips: Both lips are slim with less volume.
- Bowed/Heart-Shaped Lips: Defined by a pronounced Cupid's Bow.
- Heavy Lower Lip: The lower lip is visibly fuller than the upper lip.
No matter your shape, vegetarian lipstick and ethical makeup are your most versatile tools for enhancement. A high-quality vegan liquid lipstick can optically adjust size. When choosing the perfect shade, consider your overall aesthetic—your ideal lip color is one that enhances your natural tone.
What are perfect lips called?
Aesthetically, "perfect lips" are those that adhere closely to the Golden Ratio (1:1.6). However, the modern definition of perfect lips focuses on health, symmetry, and confidence—traits you achieve through consistent care, which is the core philosophy of ethical beauty brands like Ilia Beauty.
Section 3: Trending Aesthetics vs. Natural Enhancement
The digital age constantly introduces new aesthetic goals. For US consumers looking for the latest in lip color trends, major retailers often house vast selections and rewards programs. For instance, the popularity of a specific shade can often be tracked through consumer data and incentive programs like Ulta Beauty Rewards.
What is a Russian Lip?
The "Russian Lip" technique is a popular non-surgical augmentation trend in the US. It focuses on vertically defining the upper lip's vermilion border and lifting the Cupid's Bow.
The Ethical Way to Achieve Lift and Volume
The best ethical alternative is maximizing shine and definition.
- For Vertical Definition (The 'Russian' Effect): Use a precise brush to apply a deep, matte color (like our Nude Rose liquid lipstick) along the vermilion border. Then, apply a high-shine, richly pigmented vegan lip gloss like bratz lip gloss only to the very center.
Section 4: The Ethical Enhancement Guide (High-Density Shine)
The three essential gloss profiles can help you achieve any desired effect—all ethically and responsibly.
Vibe 1: Sophisticated Warmth and Volume
For a refined, volumized look, you need depth and shine.
- The Product: Use hazelnut lip products. The warm tones of hazelnut lip products (specifically our Lip Gloss - Hazelnut) add natural-looking shadow and contour. The formula ensures your cruelty free lip gloss commitment is met without sacrificing glamour.
- Layering Tip: For the most dramatic effect, pair the gloss with a slightly deeper base, ensuring you've prepped your lips against a dry lip condition first. You can balance this warm lip look with a flawless base from our Complexion Collection.
Vibe 2: The Bold, High-Impact Statement
To create an unforgettable statement, you need a high-shimmer finish.
- The Product: Go for bratz lip gloss. The powerful pigment and intense finish of bratz lip gloss (like our bold Lip Gloss - Apple Cinder) creates extreme, visible volume. For an even bolder, playful aesthetic, try our high-shimmer bratz lip gloss in Lip Gloss - Bubblegum.
Vibe 3: The Natural, Everyday Brightener
For maximizing brightness and health, focus on sheer, cool tones.
- The Product: Use pear lip gloss. The sheer finish of pear lip gloss (like our subtle Lip Gloss - Nutmeg) maximizes the light reflection. The flexibility of pear lip gloss means it acts as a perfect topper over a simple balm for daily care, aligning with the focus on hydration emphasized by natural skincare brands like Caudalie.
Conclusion: The Power of Ethical Precision
Knowing the anatomy of your lips is your ultimate guide to beautiful, ethical enhancement. Whether you are precisely defining your vermilion border with a vegan matte liquid lipstick or enhancing your Cupid's Bow with the warm, sophisticated shine of hazelnut lip products, your choices matter.
Choosing vegan cruelty free lipstick and natural lip products is a dedication to both personal health and ethical consumption. Enhance your natural anatomy with our full range of ethical products.
Find your perfect color and formula today at gbnanibeauty.com.