Ohhh gosh, thank you! I’m glad you like em! I actually don’t do anything too special, but here’s a few tips!
The first thing I focus on is the top lip. The more you focus on the curve, the more variation and form it’s given.
Then, I focus on the lip shape in general. The top lip is actually “darker” than the bottom, because it’s in shadow.
It’s better illustrated in color, and it makes seeing form in it easier and clearer.
Another big aspect I rely on and love to utilize is the gums. Gums are great for giving a very real, tangible, finite look to the teeth, rather than have them stretch endlessly in the mouth. Again, use curves!
Another big thing with the gums, is knowing where the’re at. Think of how the jaw is lowered and raised, rather than the top, which remains static. For the top though, the lip itself can reveal the gums, when stretched.
When expressing emotion, (and I know I bring this up a LOT) exaggerate! Pull the corners back far, show the gums, show the bottom row, move the tongue! Again, use curves! Never keep too static a line, especially in the top lip.
And finally, wrinkles! Use the surrounding skin and flesh I to your advantage! Pull it for age and expression, compress it to show youth, (typically).
Inspiration Haven 