A liquid applicator is disclosed comprising a liquid container and a liquid dispensing mechanism having a valve element enabling an axial displacement of an applicator tip to move the valve element into the open position for enabling the applicator tip to apply the liquid to a surface. The improvement comprises an applicator closure having a closure coupling for coupling the applicator closure to a peripheral rim of a container. An optional shield may be secured to the applicator closure for providing protection between the applicator tip and an operator grasping the liquid container.