How To Find The Perfect Nude Lipstick For Your Skin Tone

Wearing a bold red lip can be powerful, but it may not suit an everyday look. This is why nude lipsticks are so popular. They are lowkey yet glamorous and make you feel put-together. However, finding the perfect shade can be a challenge. What looks like an ideal nude on one person might appear too light or dark on another.

This depends on your skin tone and natural lip color. Once you find the perfect shade, life becomes easier. According to Los Angeles-based makeup artist Nikki DeRoest, nude lipstick is easy to apply without a mirror, and you don’t have to be too exact. A nude lipstick is highly personal because you can choose a shade with warm, neutral, or cool undertones. According to Aleena Khan, co-founder of Ctzn Cosmetics, the most popular industry definition for a nude lip is one shade above your natural lip tone. This avoids looking washed out and choosing a shade that is too pale for you. Here, we make the tedious task much more accessible with some excellent picks.

The best nude lipstick shades based on your skin tone

Nude lipstick is not a one-size-fits-all product. Whether you have fair, medium, or dark skin, you can find your perfect lipstick by paying attention to a few details and remembering that nudes can range from pinks to browns. According to Vogue, If you have fair skin, the perfect nude lip colors for you are soft pinks and light rose shades. Think “Euphoria” star Sydney Sweeney at The Met Gala. You can rock a little medium-toned pink or go a bit rosier if your skin is lighter. Vogue recommends Nars Audacious Lipstick in Barbara or Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Satin Lipstick in Carol Beige.

For medium skin tones, try a peachy-tan, warm beige nude, or a deep rose shade to compliment your complexion, per Allure. Try Nudestix Magnetic Matte Lip Color in Boho for staying power or Maybelline New York Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color in Daringly Nude for a more affordable pick. You don’t want your nude lipstick to look too light against your skin, or it will give a concealer vibe.

If you have dark skin, your best bet is to choose a soft chocolate brown, peachy-nude, or coral plum to accentuate your lips while flattering your skin tone. Women’s Health loves Mented Liquid Lipstick in Hot Date and Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm in Nude Lingerie. Show off your pout with these perfect nudes for your skin tone, and you’ll never have to second-guess your drugstore trip again. Plus, don’t forget that you can keep your lip color on all day by applying products in a specific order!