Fenty Beauty Lip Liner vs Glossier Lip Liner: The Ultimate Showdown

Finding the right lip liner can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Two of the biggest names in modern beauty have launched lip liners that have taken the internet by storm.

Fenty Beauty’s Trace’d Out Longwear Waterproof Pencil Lip Liner and Glossier’s Lip Line Enhancing Pencil sit at the top of nearly every beauty editor’s recommendation list. But which one actually deserves your money?

Both promise creamy formulas, long wear times, and shade ranges that flatter a variety of skin tones. In this head to head comparison, we break down everything from formula and texture to shade range, price, and real world performance.

Key Takeaways

• Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner costs $22 and offers a waterproof, velvet matte finish that lasts up to 8 hours. It uses pure pigments for rich, true cast color on all skin tones.
• Glossier Lip Line costs $18 and delivers a creamy, medium coverage formula with a hydrating feel. It is water and transfer resistant and comes in shades matched to natural lip tones.
• Fenty wins on longevity and bold color payoff. If you want a lip liner that survives meals, drinks, and long days, the Trace’d Out pencil holds up better under pressure.
• Glossier wins on comfort and natural enhancement. If you prefer a softer, “your lips but better” look, the Lip Line pencil delivers that effortless finish.
• Both products are cruelty free and vegan. You do not have to compromise your values for either option.
• Your choice depends on your makeup style. Full glam lovers will lean toward Fenty. Minimalist beauty fans will gravitate toward Glossier.

Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Longwear Waterproof Pencil Lip Liner Overview

Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Longwear Waterproof Pencil Lip Liner launched as part of Rihanna’s expanding lip lineup. This pencil was created to solve a common problem: lip liners that look ashy or chalky on deeper skin tones. Fenty used pure pigments in the formula to deliver what the brand calls “true cast color.”

The texture is creamy and smooth. It glides across the lips without dragging or pulling. Once it sets, it dries down to a velvet matte finish that stays put for up to 8 hours. The formula is also waterproof, which means it resists smudging from drinks, food, and even light rain.

Fenty offers this liner in a wide shade range. The shades include warm nudes, cool mauves, deep berries, and rich browns. Each shade was developed to complement various lip tones without looking flat or unnatural. The pencil itself requires a sharpener, which some users see as a minor downside.

At $22 per pencil, it sits at a mid range price point for a prestige lip liner. You get 0.044 oz of product per pencil. The liner is vegan and cruelty free, which aligns with Fenty Beauty’s overall brand values.

Pros:

• Waterproof formula lasts up to 8 hours
• Pure pigments prevent ashy appearance on all skin tones
• Creamy texture glides on without dragging
• Wide shade range for diverse skin tones
• Vegan and cruelty free

Cons:

• Requires a separate sharpener
• Slightly higher price at $22
• Velvet matte finish may feel drying for some users
• Limited availability on Amazon compared to Sephora

Glossier Lip Line Enhancing Pencil Overview

Last update on 2026-06-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

Glossier’s Lip Line Enhancing Pencil arrived on the scene as a natural extension of the brand’s “skin first, makeup second” philosophy. This lip liner focuses on enhancing your natural lip color rather than creating a bold, dramatic look. Glossier calls it an “enhancing pencil” for good reason.

The formula delivers medium coverage with a creamy, comfortable feel. It does not dry out or tug at the lips. The texture is smooth and almost balm like, making application quick and easy. You do not need much skill to get a clean line with this pencil.

Glossier’s shade development took an unusual approach. The brand matched each shade to natural nipple tones, which sounds unconventional but actually results in colors that look incredibly natural on the lips. The shade lineup includes options like Buff, Flush, Graze, and Nip.

The pencil is a retractable crayon style, so you never need a sharpener. It is water resistant and transfer resistant, though it does not claim full waterproof status like Fenty. At $18 per pencil, it costs $4 less than the Fenty option.

Pros:

• Comfortable, hydrating formula that does not dry lips
• Retractable pencil requires no sharpener
• Natural, “your lips but better” color payoff
• Water and transfer resistant
• More affordable at $18

Cons:

• Medium coverage may not satisfy those who want bold color
• Fewer shades compared to Fenty’s range
• Not fully waterproof
• May need reapplication after heavy meals

Formula and Texture Comparison

The formula is where these two lip liners show their biggest differences. Fenty Beauty uses a silicone based formula with ingredients like dimethicone and trimethylsiloxysilicate. These ingredients create that long lasting, waterproof seal on the lips. The texture feels rich and pigmented from the first swipe.

Glossier opts for a more emollient approach. The formula includes hydrating ingredients that keep the lips feeling soft throughout the day. The texture is creamier and lighter than Fenty’s. It feels more like a tinted lip balm than a traditional matte liner.

If you have dry or chapped lips, Glossier’s formula will likely feel more comfortable. It does not settle into fine lines as much as matte formulas tend to do. Fenty’s formula, while creamy during application, does set to a firmer matte finish that can highlight dryness.

For those with oily skin around the lip area, Fenty performs better. The waterproof formula resists the natural oils that can break down makeup throughout the day. Glossier’s lighter formula may start to fade faster in oily conditions.

Both formulas are free from parabens. Both brands maintain vegan and cruelty free standards. Neither product contains fragrance, which is a plus for sensitive skin.

Shade Range and Color Payoff

Fenty Beauty offers one of the most inclusive shade ranges in the lip liner market. The Trace’d Out collection includes shades that span from light nudes to deep, rich browns and berries. Each shade uses pure pigments that deliver true color without looking chalky or gray on the lips.

The color payoff is immediate and full. One swipe gives you intense, opaque coverage. This makes Fenty ideal for overlining or creating a defined lip shape. The pigments show up accurately on a wide range of skin tones, which is a major selling point.

Glossier takes a different approach. The shade range is smaller but carefully curated. Each shade is meant to blend seamlessly with your natural lip color. The payoff is buildable rather than instant. One pass gives you a soft hint of color. Two or three passes build to a more defined look.

If you love a statement lip, Fenty’s shade range and pigmentation will serve you better. If you prefer a subtle, natural enhancement, Glossier’s buildable shades are the way to go. The choice really comes down to how much color you want your liner to deliver on its own.

Longevity and Wear Time

This category has a clear winner. Fenty Beauty’s Trace’d Out liner lasts up to 8 hours according to the brand, and real world reviews confirm this claim. Beauty editors and everyday users report that the liner survives coffee, meals, and even light workouts without significant fading.

The waterproof formula means you can drink from a glass without leaving a perfect lip print behind. The liner stays in place even in humid conditions. It resists feathering and bleeding, which keeps your lip line sharp throughout the day.

Glossier’s Lip Line performs well for a non waterproof formula. Most users report 4 to 6 hours of solid wear before noticeable fading begins. The water resistant claim holds up for light exposure to moisture. A sip of water will not destroy your lip line.

However, a full meal will likely require a touch up with Glossier. The softer formula transfers more easily than Fenty’s locked in finish. This is the trade off for Glossier’s more comfortable, hydrating feel.

For long events, travel days, or busy schedules, Fenty is the better choice. For casual days when you can reapply easily, Glossier works beautifully.

Application and Ease of Use

Glossier wins in the convenience department. The retractable crayon design means you never hunt for a sharpener. You twist the base and the product extends. The tip stays reasonably precise for a crayon style pencil, though it is not as sharp as a freshly sharpened wooden pencil.

Fenty’s traditional wooden pencil requires sharpening before use and periodically during use. A freshly sharpened Fenty liner gives you a crisp, precise tip that is perfect for detailed work like overlining or creating sharp cupid’s bow definition.

The Glossier pencil is more forgiving during application. Its softer formula allows you to smudge and blend with a finger or brush. This makes it ideal for beginners or anyone who prefers a less precise, lived in lip look.

Fenty’s pencil rewards a steadier hand. The richer pigmentation means mistakes are harder to fix without a concealer brush. But the payoff is a cleaner, more defined line that looks polished and intentional. Both pencils glide smoothly without tugging at the lip skin.

Price and Value for Money

Glossier Lip Line costs $18. You get 1.2 grams of product in a retractable pencil. There is no product waste from sharpening since the pencil does not require a sharpener.

Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out costs $22. You get 1.24 grams of product in a wooden pencil. Because you must sharpen this pencil, some product is lost during the sharpening process. This effectively reduces the usable amount of product you get.

When you calculate the cost per usable gram, Glossier offers better value. You pay less and lose no product to sharpening. Fenty costs more and loses a small percentage to maintenance.

However, value also depends on wear time. If Fenty lasts 8 hours and Glossier lasts 5 hours, you may use less Fenty product over time because you apply it less frequently. This could balance out the price difference for daily users.

Both products are available at Sephora, their respective brand websites, and Amazon. Neither brand frequently runs major discounts, though holiday sets sometimes offer better value per unit.

Packaging and Design

Fenty Beauty packages the Trace’d Out liner in a sleek, matte black wooden pencil. The design is minimal and chic. The shade name is printed clearly on the pencil barrel. It looks premium and sophisticated in your makeup bag.

The downside is that wooden pencils can break if stored loosely in a bag. The tip is also exposed unless you keep the cap on securely. You need to carry a sharpener separately, which adds one more item to your kit.

Glossier uses a slim, retractable pencil with the brand’s signature pink and clean aesthetic. The packaging is lightweight and travel friendly. The retractable mechanism protects the tip, so you can toss it into a bag without worry.

For on the go use, Glossier’s packaging is simply more practical. For a vanity display or organized makeup station, Fenty’s design holds its own with a more luxury feel. Both brands use recyclable materials in their packaging.

Who Should Choose Fenty Beauty Lip Liner?

Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out is the right choice for people who prioritize long lasting, high pigment lip color. If you work long shifts, attend events, or simply hate reapplying makeup, this liner delivers reliable all day wear.

It is also the better pick for deeper skin tones. Fenty’s pure pigment technology ensures every shade shows up accurately without looking ashy or washed out. This was a core design goal for the product, and it succeeds.

Bold makeup lovers will appreciate the full coverage color payoff. You can use this liner on its own as a matte lip color or pair it with a lipstick or gloss. The intense pigmentation holds up as a base that extends the wear of other lip products layered on top.

If you live in a hot, humid climate, Fenty’s waterproof formula will perform better than most alternatives. Rain, sweat, and humidity will not break down this liner easily.

Who Should Choose Glossier Lip Liner?

Glossier Lip Line is ideal for anyone who embraces the “no makeup” makeup look. If you want your lips to look naturally defined and subtly enhanced, this pencil delivers that effect perfectly.

It is a great choice for makeup beginners. The forgiving formula, easy application, and buildable coverage make it hard to mess up. You can apply it quickly without a mirror and still get a polished result.

People with dry or sensitive lips will prefer Glossier’s hydrating formula. It does not dry out the lips or emphasize flaky patches. The comfortable feel means you can wear it all day without that tight, dry sensation some matte liners cause.

If you value convenience and portability, the retractable design and no sharpener requirement make Glossier the more practical daily driver. It is also $4 cheaper, which adds up if you go through lip liners quickly.

Can You Use Both Together?

Absolutely. Many beauty enthusiasts use both liners in their rotation depending on the occasion. This is actually a smart approach because each product serves a different purpose.

Use Fenty for date nights, events, and long days when you need your lip look to last without maintenance. The waterproof, high pigment formula will carry you through hours of talking, eating, and drinking.

Use Glossier for work, errands, and casual outings when you want a quick, easy, natural lip enhancement. The comfortable formula and simple application make it perfect for low effort beauty days.

Some users even layer both products. They apply Glossier first as a hydrating base, then use Fenty on the outer lip line for sharp definition. This combination gives you hydration plus long lasting hold. It is an unconventional technique, but beauty content creators have shown impressive results with this method.

Final Verdict: Which Lip Liner Wins?

There is no single winner here because these products serve different needs. The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner is the performance champion. It lasts longer, delivers bolder color, and resists water and transfer better than Glossier.

The Glossier Lip Line is the comfort and ease champion. It feels better on the lips, applies faster, costs less, and creates a more natural finish. It is the liner you reach for every single day without thinking.

If you can only buy one, consider your daily routine. Do you wear full makeup most days and need long lasting performance? Choose Fenty. Do you prefer minimal makeup and value comfort over longevity? Choose Glossier.

Both products have earned their spots on best lip liner lists for good reason. You genuinely cannot go wrong with either choice. Your ideal pick depends entirely on your personal makeup style, budget, and how much effort you want to put into your lip routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fenty Beauty Lip Liner Worth the Extra $4 Over Glossier?

Yes, if longevity is your priority. The Fenty Trace’d Out liner lasts up to 8 hours and offers waterproof protection. That extra $4 buys you significantly better wear time. However, if you prefer a natural look and comfortable feel, the $18 Glossier pencil provides excellent value for the price.

Do Either of These Lip Liners Work on Dry Lips?

Glossier is the better option for dry lips. Its hydrating, creamy formula does not emphasize dryness or settle into fine lines. Fenty’s matte finish can highlight dry patches. If you choose Fenty, apply a thin layer of lip balm first and let it absorb before lining your lips.

Can You Use Fenty Lip Liner as a Full Lip Color?

Yes, you can. The Fenty Trace’d Out liner has enough pigmentation and coverage to fill in your entire lips. Many users skip lipstick entirely and just wear this liner. The velvet matte finish looks polished on its own. Top it with a clear gloss for a different texture.

How Many Shades Does Each Lip Liner Come In?

Fenty Beauty offers a wider shade range that includes nudes, mauves, berries, and deep browns. Glossier currently offers a smaller but carefully curated selection of shades like Buff, Flush, Graze, and Nip. Fenty gives you more choices, especially for bolder lip looks.

Are Both Lip Liners Available at Sephora?

Yes. Both the Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner and the Glossier Lip Line Enhancing Pencil are available at Sephora stores and Sephora’s website. They are also sold on each brand’s own website and through Amazon.

Which Lip Liner Is Better for Overlining?

Fenty Beauty is the better choice for overlining. The sharp wooden pencil tip gives you precise control, and the high pigmentation creates a convincing, defined line. Glossier’s softer, creamier formula tends to blend out rather than holding a crisp overlined shape.