Yes, it’s official: This lip pencil endorsed by Hailey Bieber is truly unmatched when it comes to finding a substitute (I tested it).

Yes, it’s official: This lip pencil endorsed by Hailey Bieber is truly unmatched when it comes to finding a substitute (I tested it).

      Like a chart-topping pop song that plays on repeat across every radio station, a particular makeup product has been on my mind all summer long. I am a true lip liner enthusiast: I have about 50 of them (wish I were kidding), with at least three nude-ish pencils always found at the bottom of each of my numerous purses daily. However, I don't actively seek out new ones—I typically stick with the same old, worn MAC lip liner for years before considering a replacement. Still, something about the Hailey Bieber-endorsed Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil has lingered in my thoughts ever since a makeup artist introduced me to this long-lasting, shaping lip product a few months ago.

      MAKE UP FOR EVER

      Artist Color Pencil Longwear Lip Liner in Anywhere Caffeine

      What constitutes the perfect nude lip liner, you might wonder? Bieber previously mentioned her reliance on this liner in a TikTok for Who What Wear UK, and while she didn’t specify her exact shade, she has shown a preference for the warm brown shade, Anywhere Caffeine. Makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell, adored by celebrities and influencers, later confirmed this pencil as a must-have in her lip routine and essential in her TikTok-famous wedding guest makeup tutorial, which has garnered millions of views and thousands of saves, including mine. Eager to try it but hesitant to spend $25 on a lip liner, I tested numerous dupes before finally trying the original. While the pigmentation, quality, and durability of the Make Up For Ever pencils far exceed the others, I did discover some notable alternatives. Below are eight impressive lookalikes to consider adding to your cart (until you ultimately decide to purchase the real deal).

      Swatches of various lookalike lip liners on the back of Brascia's hand.

      Revlon

      Colorstay Lip Liner in Nude

      At only $11, this drugstore option is much more affordable than Make Up For Ever’s. I’ve purchased several shades of this budget-friendly lip liner since my college days—the creamy texture, vibrant pigment, and stylish color range kept me coming back. While there are some key differences—Revlon’s is a softer cream pencil compared to the Make Up For Ever’s, making it easier to apply but generally less long-lasting—it’s important to note that Nude is a touch warmer than Anywhere Caffeine. It may be a closer match for another trending shade, Wherever Walnut, if that’s on your radar. But if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly, editor-approved option, this one has my recommendation.

      ICONIC LONDON

      Fuller Pout Sculpting Lip Liner in Material Girl

      This nude lip liner might appear lighter than Anywhere Caffeine, yet they look nearly identical on skin swatches and when applied to the lips. Iconic London’s pencil features a smudge tip on one end, which I appreciate for diffusing harsh lines, but this highlights the differences I observe between the two formulas. While Make Up For Ever’s pencil strikes a balance between creaminess and longevity, the Iconic London formula feels slightly drier on my lips, which makes blending a bit more challenging (hence the convenient smudger). Even though I still often reach for the Iconic London lip liner (it’s perfect for my work bag—no more needing to blend my liner with my fingers during my commute), the comfort of the Artist Color Pencil remains unmatched. However, you can snag this Iconic London liner for just $16 during Revolve’s beauty sale right now by using the code BEAUTY20 at checkout, making it a more attractive choice.

      Ortega

      Soft Contour Lip Liner in La Chic

      Bieber mentioned in a TikTok for WWW UK that she uses these Make Up For Ever liners to “contour and enhance the lips,” which makes this Soft Contour Lip Liner from celebrity makeup artist Etienne Ortega’s collection a fitting alternative. The chocolaty-nude shade La Chic is quite similar to the warm caramel shade of Anywhere Caffeine but has a slightly cooler tone than its pricier counterpart. While both liners are remarkably comfortable, the Etienne lip liner is more prone to smudging due to its ultra-soft cream formulation. Although I love this liner for its hydrating qualities, I find that it doesn't offer the same long-lasting wear as the Make Up For Ever version. (Oh, and did I mention that this one is also discounted at Revolve’s beauty sale)?

      But my findings don’t stop there. Keep reading for more lip pencils that rival Anywhere Caffeine, with prices starting at just $3.

      Milani

      Color Statement Lip Liner in All Natural

      e.l.f. Cosmetics

      Cream Glide Lip Liner in Baddest Beige

      NYX Professional Makeup

      Slim Lip Pencil - Nude Truffle

      SEPHORA COLLECTION

      Colorful Longwear Lip Liner in Cinnamon Brown

      ONE/SIZE

      Lip Snatcher Precision Lip Liner

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Yes, it’s official: This lip pencil endorsed by Hailey Bieber is truly unmatched when it comes to finding a substitute (I tested it).

It's the ideal nude.