We may only be two months into 2026, but one thing is clear: Lips are dominating the trends. So far, several looks—from blurred finishes to lip stain contouring—have completely taken over social media. But the latest to take center stage is a hybrid style with iconic roots. Enter halo lips, a softer take on the dramatically contoured look that defined the 2010s. The technique combines sculpting and diffused lines to create a naturally defined effect—think Hailey Bieber’s signature plumped pout or Kaia Gerber’s soft pinky-brown lip.
Celebrity approval is often enough to send a trend viral. But a connection to Kevyn Aucoin’s classic teachings gives this one staying power. The legendary makeup artist is widely credited with bringing contouring techniques into the mainstream. His approach—using flesh-toned liners to add depth before layering on color—became a staple in the ’90s. The halo lip trend follows a similar method to achieve a look that feels both modern and timeless. Below, two professional makeup artists break down the trend and share tips for recreating it.
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What Are Halo Lips?
If you’re familiar with halo contouring in hair, you can likely guess what this lip trend entails. Similar in concept, it relies on contrasting deeper and lighter shades to create subtle dimension. The technique enhances the natural shape of the lips while adding definition, but the result is far from harsh.
According to celebrity makeup artist and director of artistry and makeup at Kevyn Aucoin, Drita Paljevic, halo lips are defined by their softly blended finish. “Think of sculpting the outer lips to add depth and a gentle shadow. The effect is a pillowy, fuller-looking lip that reads lifted and dimensional on camera, without a hard overline,” adds celebrity makeup artist Christian Briceno.
Halo vs. Blurred Lips
If this trend looks familiar, you’re not alone. Many TikTok users have noted its similarities to the blurred lip style that’s also surged in popularity. The difference, however, comes down to technique and finish.
According to Paljevic, the most notable distinction lies in product placement. “With halo lips, you introduce the contour before you apply any colored lip products to create the illusion of a fuller pout,” she says. Rather than aiming for an ombré or diffused effect, the focus is on precision. “The goal is tricking the eye into seeing a voluminous and lifted look, where blurred lips appear soft and slightly messy,” adds Briceno.
The formulas also differ. Blurred lips typically rely on a single, more fluid product that can be smudged and blended. The halo approach, by contrast, calls for structured liners and layered products to sculpt and define.
How to Recreate the Trend
Mastering the halo lip trend takes precision, but it’s entirely doable. Start with subtle contouring. “Apply your favorite cream contour on a small brush and apply it around your mouth, being sure to stay as close as possible to your natural lip border. Next, use your favorite lip liner to line your lips, making sure you don’t overdraw the shape,” says Paljevic.
Placement is key. “The liner goes inside, not outside your lips, so choose a shade similar to your natural lip tone or one slightly deeper,” adds Briceno. Concentrate the deepest pigment toward the center for added dimension, then gently blend the edges with your finger to soften.
To finish, tap a creamy lipstick or gloss onto the center and blot. “Kevyn taught us to use a lighter shade for this to reverse contour and create the halo effect,” says Paljevic.
Products to Get the Halo Lip Look
The Contrast Stick
Artist Color Pencil Lip Liner
Signature Lipstick
