How to Find the Perfect Lipstick Shade for Your Skin Tone

Finding the perfect lipstick shade isn’t just about following trends—it’s about highlighting what makes you unique. The right color can brighten your complexion, enhance your features, and even boost your confidence. With so many skin tones and personal styles, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But understanding how shades work with your undertones and preferences can make all the difference. Let’s break it down so you can choose a lipstick that truly complements you.

Understanding Your Skin Tone

Finding the perfect lipstick shade starts with understanding your skin tone and undertones. These subtle characteristics determine how colors interact with your complexion and can make or break your makeup choices. Once you grasp the basics of undertones, picking the right shade becomes a breeze.

Cool, Warm, and Neutral Undertones

Undertones refer to the subtle hues underneath the surface of your skin. While your skin tone might fluctuate with seasons or sun exposure, undertones remain consistent. They can be categorized into three main groups: cool, warm, and neutral. Here’s what they mean:

Cool Undertones: If your skin has hints of pink, red, or blue beneath the surface, you have cool undertones. Think of shades like a blushing rose or the icy hues of snow.
Warm Undertones: Warm undertones display a golden, yellow, or peachy base. Imagine the soft glow of sunlight or the richness of honey.
Neutral Undertones: Neutral undertones are a blend of both warm and cool tones. Your skin may not lean heavily in one direction, which means you can often pull off a wider variety of colors.

Recognizing these undertones helps narrow down the lipstick shades that’ll complement your natural beauty. Cool-toned individuals might look stunning in berry or blue-based reds, while warm-toned folks may sweep the room with orange-based hues or corals. Neutral-toned wearers? Lucky you—you get the best of both worlds.

Testing Your Undertones

Still unsure about your undertone? Don’t worry. There are several simple tricks to help identify it. These quick tests can reveal whether your skin is cool, warm, or neutral without requiring any advanced tools.

Vein Test
Take a look at the veins on your wrist under natural light.
- If they appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones.
- If they are green or olive, warm undertones may be your match.
- If they seem to be a mix of both, you’re in the neutral category.
Jewelry Preference
Think about whether gold or silver jewelry looks better on you.
- Silver tends to complement cool undertones.
- Gold tends to flatter warm undertones.
- If you find both metals equally stunning, you may have neutral undertones.
The White Fabric Test
Hold a pure white T-shirt or cloth up to your face in front of a mirror.
- If your skin brightens and appears radiant, you have cool undertones.
- If your complexion seems warm and glowing, you have warm undertones.
- If neither stands out more dramatically, neutral could be your undertone.

By testing these small details, you’ll gain insight into how your skin reacts to various colors. Once you nail down your undertone, choosing complementary lipstick shades feels less like a guessing game and more like an art you’ve mastered.

Choosing Lipstick Shades for Cool Undertones

If you have cool undertones, you’ll notice pinkish, bluish, or even reddish hues beneath your skin’s surface. Your complexion pairs beautifully with specific lipstick shades that bring out these cooler elements, giving you a clean, vibrant look. But not all colors are your best friend—some can dull your shine or even clash with your undertones. Here’s everything you need to know to make the right choice.

Best Colors for Cool Undertones

When selecting a lipstick for cool undertones, look for shades with blue or purple bases. These colors harmonize with the cool tint in your skin and highlight its natural glow. Here are some tried-and-true options:

Blue-Based Reds
Classic red lipsticks with a blue undertone give you that timeless, Hollywood-glam vibe. They’re bold but never overwhelming, making them perfect for anything from a casual coffee date to a formal night out.
Examples: Cherry red or ruby hues.
Cool-Toned Pinks
Think soft blush tones or vibrant magentas. These shades create a fresh, youthful appearance and can brighten up your face even on a no-makeup day.
Examples: Baby pink, fuchsia, or bubblegum pink.
Berries
Deep, rich berry tones like cranberry or raspberry are flattering and versatile. They work especially well for cooler months or evening events.
Plums and Purples
Shades like plum, mauve, or even deeper purple hues look striking on cool undertones. They create an edgy yet elegant finish, perfect for when you want to stand out.

If you’re ever unsure, look for lipsticks labeled with keywords like “cool,” “icy,” or “blue-based.” These small indicators can help guide your choices.

Colors to Avoid

While some shades bring out your best features, others can throw off the balance of your complexion. Generally, you’ll want to steer clear of warmer tones that clash with cool undertones. Here are the main culprits:

Orange-Based Reds
These lipsticks are vibrant, but their yellow or orange undertones can look harsh against cool skin. They tend to overpower rather than complement.
Corals or Peachy Tones
Warm corals and peach shades often lean too yellow, which can make your skin appear sallow or washed out.
Warm Browns
Think bronze or terracotta hues. While stunning on warm undertones, these colors can age cool-toned complexions or make them look dull.
Golden or Yellow-Based Nudes
Nude shades with a golden tint can feel mismatched on cool undertones. Instead, opt for pink- or mauve-based nudes to keep your look balanced and polished.

Remember, makeup is about experimentation, but understanding your undertones helps you avoid trial-and-error frustration. Stick with colors that naturally enhance your complexion, and you’ll always nail that flawless finish.

Choosing Lipstick Shades for Warm Undertones

If your skin showcases warm undertones, you might notice hints of golden, peachy, or yellow hues peeking through. These undertones exude a naturally radiant, sun-kissed glow, even on the dullest of days. To enhance this natural warmth, it’s all about picking lipstick shades that complement rather than compete with your skin. Choosing the right colors will not only harmonize with your complexion but also create a look that’s effortlessly polished and glowing.

Best Colors for Warm Undertones

Warm undertones pair beautifully with shades that mirror their golden, sunny base. The key is to stick with colors that lean towards yellows, oranges, or earth tones. These shades create balance and enhance your complexion’s inherent warmth.

Here are some of the most flattering lipstick color options for individuals with warm undertones:

Corals
Corals are practically made for warm undertones. Whether you prefer a soft coral for a subtle daytime look or a bolder version for evening glam, this shade complements your skin’s golden glow perfectly.
Orange-Based Reds
Red lipstick doesn’t have to feel intimidating, especially if it’s orange-based. This vibrant hue brings out the warmth in your skin without feeling overpowering, making it a go-to shade for special occasions.
Peach Tones
Tired of the usual pinks or nudes? Peach lipstick offers something fresh and playful while still syncing beautifully with warm undertones. It’s a soft, versatile color perfect for both casual and elegant settings.
Warm Browns
Shades like terracotta, cinnamon, or caramel are rich and flattering for warm-toned skin. They create a sophisticated and grounded look that’s ideal for fall or winter months.
Gold-Toned Nudes
If you love a natural look, nude lipsticks with a gold or beige base will work wonders. These shades add depth and warmth without washing out your complexion.

When in doubt, reach for lipsticks with descriptors like “warm,” “golden,” or “sunset” in their names—they’re often created with warm undertones in mind.

Photo by Ron Lach

Colors to Steer Clear Of

While some shades are made to enhance warm undertones, others can clash or create an unflattering contrast. Avoiding certain hues can save you from looking washed out or overly ashy.

Here are a few colors that may not work as well on warm undertones:

Blue-Based Pinks
Cool-toned pinks with a blue base often appear too stark against warm undertones. Rather than complementing your skin, they can create a chalky or mismatched effect.
Purples
Shades like lavender or deep violet tend to lean cool, which can have the unfortunate effect of clashing with your complexion’s golden warmth.
Cool Blue-Based Reds
While universally loved, blue-based reds may not highlight warm undertones as effectively as their orange-based counterparts. They can create a sharp contrast that doesn’t feel cohesive.
Muted Cool Nudes
Nudes with cool undertones, such as grayish taupes or pale mauves, may look ashy or flat on warm-toned skin. Instead, stick to nudes with hints of caramel or peach.

The trick is to avoid shades that feel icy or overly cool—think anything with blue or purple undertones. Warm undertones shine best when paired with colors that enhance their golden, luminous base. Keep this in mind the next time you shop for lipsticks, and you’ll find fewer regrets and more winning shades in your collection.

Choosing Lipstick Shades for Neutral Undertones

Neutral undertones are a true gift when it comes to choosing lipstick shades. Think of them as the versatile middle ground—not pulling too warm or cool—which lets you play with nearly any color on the spectrum. This unique balance opens the door to endless possibilities, from natural nudes to rich, dramatic hues. Ready to make the most of your flexibility? Here’s a guide to work with your neutral undertones.

Versatile Colors for Neutral Undertones

One of the best things about having neutral undertones is that you don’t need to shy away from specific shades. Your skin naturally harmonizes with both warm and cool tones, offering you a broader palette to explore. Still, there are a few colors that consistently flatter neutral complexions:

Mauves: A perfect blend of pink and purple, mauve shades bring a soft elegance. They’re ideal for everyday wear when you want to keep it subtle but polished.
Rose: With its rosy-pink hues, this shade looks incredibly timeless and fresh on neutral undertones. It’s a great middle ground—neither too bold nor too subtle.
Nudes: Go for nudes with a balance of pink and beige. These shades won’t lean too yellow or gray, ensuring they enhance your natural complexion.
Balanced Reds: Neutral undertones wear red beautifully, especially those that sit between blue-based and orange-based tones. Think classic cherry or neutral scarlet for a bold statement.

When shopping, look for shades labeled as “neutral” or “balanced.” These lipstick formulas are often designed with your undertones in mind!

Making the Most of Versatility

Since your neutral undertones pair well with a variety of colors, you have the freedom to experiment according to your mood or event. Not sure where to begin? Here are a few tips to guide you:

Keep It Subtle for Daytime: For casual outings or work, stick to muted tones like pinkish nudes or mauves. These shades are polished and professional without drawing too much attention.
Go Bold for Special Occasions: Heading to a wedding or an evening event? Try striking reds or deep berry shades to draw focus to your lips. These colors pop against neutral undertones without looking harsh.
Mix Textures: Neutral undertones work beautifully with both matte and glossy finishes. Matte shades offer a chic, modern touch, while glosses bring a youthful radiance.
Match the Mood: Feeling adventurous? Bright pinks, corals, or even purples can still work for you. Play around and see how these shades enhance your look.

A great trick is to always tailor your lipstick choice to the rest of your makeup or outfit. Neutral undertones thrive on balance, so if you’re going bold with your lips, keep things softer on your eyes and cheeks, and vice versa. With the flexibility of neutral undertones, there are no hard-and-fast rules—just have fun discovering what works for you!

Additional Tips for Selecting the Perfect Lipstick

Choosing the ideal lipstick shade doesn’t end with just matching it to your skin tone. There’s more to consider to ensure you pick a color and texture that works for your overall look and lifestyle. From occasions to lip care, these additional tips will help you make confident, informed choices when shopping for lipstick.

Consider the Occasion

Your lipstick can be a subtle or bold statement, but it’s crucial to match it to the setting. The right shade for brunch may not suit a black-tie event. Here’s how to approach it:

Daytime or Office Wear: Opt for soft, understated colors such as nude, mauve, or dusty pink shades. These tones keep the focus on your natural beauty and feel appropriate for professional or casual daytime settings.
Formal or Evening Events: Bold shades work wonderfully for formal settings or evening occasions. Think classic red, rich berries, or even a deep plum—they instantly elevate your look and complement dressier outfits.
Casual or Active Outings: For relaxed settings, you can play around with sheer or tinted balms in fun, light colors like coral or peach. They provide a fresh and natural appearance while being easy to reapply.

Consider your outfit and the vibe of the event to pick colors that enhance your overall look without overpowering it.

Account for Lipstick Finish

Beyond picking the right shade, the finish of your lipstick can subtly change its effect on your appearance. Each finish has its own unique look and feel:

Matte: Matte lipsticks are bold and long-lasting, making them perfect for creating a modern, chic look. However, they can sometimes feel drying, so prepare your lips with a balm or primer beforehand.
Glossy: Glossy finishes are hydrating and add a radiant shine, giving your lips a fuller appearance. They’re ideal for casual outings, daytime looks, or when you want a youthful glow.
Satin: Satin strikes a balance between matte and glossy. It feels comfortable on the lips and delivers a soft shine, making it a versatile choice for almost any occasion.
Sheer: Sheer lipsticks are lightweight and allow your natural lip color to shine through. They’re great for a low-maintenance look or adding a touch of color without being too bold.

When picking a finish, think about both the look you’re going for and how it feels to wear. For example, matte may last longer, but a glossy finish is easier to touch up on-the-go.

Photo by cottonbro studio

Testing Before You Buy

Unsure if a lipstick shade will suit you? Testing it before purchasing can save you from committing to the wrong color. Here’s how to do it the right way:

In-Store Testing: Instead of swiping testers directly on your lips (which is never sanitary), test on the inside of your wrist or the pad of your fingertip. These areas mimic the natural tone of your lips better than the back of your hand.
Virtual Try-On Tools: Many brands now offer virtual try-on features online. These tools use augmented reality (AR) to let you see how a shade looks on your face without leaving your home—a game-changer for online shoppers.
Lighting Matters: Whether in-store or at home, always check how the shade looks in natural light. Artificial lighting can alter the way a lipstick appears, leading to surprises once you step outside.

Testing before you buy ensures you’ve picked a shade that works beautifully with your skin tone, undertones, and personal style.

Caring for Your Lips

No lipstick, no matter how luxurious, will look its best if your lips aren’t cared for. A smooth, hydrated base is key to flawless application and long-lasting wear.

Here’s how to prep your lips:

Exfoliate: Use a gentle lip scrub or a DIY mix of sugar and honey to remove dry, flaky skin. Do this 1-2 times per week to create a smooth surface for lipstick.
Hydrate: Apply a nourishing lip balm daily to lock in moisture and keep lips soft. This step is especially important if you’re wearing matte formulas, which can emphasize dryness.
Prime: For longer wear, consider using a lip primer as a base. It helps lipstick stick better, prevents feathering, and ensures even application.

Healthy, well-prepped lips not only make your lipstick look flawless but also feel more comfortable throughout the day.

By considering these tips, your lipstick game will level up beyond just matching shades to your skin. Whether it’s choosing the right finish or ensuring your pout is soft and smooth, these small details can make a big impact.

Common Myths About Lipstick and Skin Tone

Lipstick shopping often feels like walking through a maze of rules and restrictions. You’ve probably heard statements like, “Only certain colors suit your skin tone,” or “Bold shades aren’t for everyone.” Let’s clear up these common myths so you can make confident lipstick choices without second-guessing yourself. Spoiler alert: the only real rule is to wear what makes you feel your best.

Myth: Only Certain Shades Work for Specific Skin Tones

Many believe that skin tone dictates a set list of “approved” lipstick shades, leaving little room for exploration. But the truth? There’s far more flexibility than you’ve been led to believe. While undertones provide general guidance, experimenting within a color family can often lead to surprising results.

For example, a cool-toned individual doesn’t have to avoid warm shades entirely. A coral with a hint of pink or a red that leans slightly warm can still complement your complexion beautifully. Similarly, warm undertones can rock cooler hues like a berry-toned lipstick by pairing it with the right makeup for balance. It’s all about finding subtle variations within shades to make them work for you.

Instead of sticking rigidly to rules, try testing colors in natural light to see how they play against your skin. Remember, makeup always has room for creativity and personal flair. If you find a shade you love, wear it boldly and ignore outdated “dos and don’ts.”

Myth: Bold Colors Are Not for Everyone

Bold lipsticks often come with a reputation of being intimidating. Some shy away thinking, “It’s too much for me,” or “My complexion doesn’t suit dramatic colors.” But here’s the secret: anyone can pull off bold lipstick—it all comes down to finding the right undertone match and wearing it confidently.

A bright red or deep plum might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right undertone, it enhances your natural features without overpowering. For those with cool undertones, bold shades like a blue-based red or a striking fuchsia can create a show-stopping look. Warm undertones? Try an orange-toned red or a bold copper for a radiant appearance. Even neutral undertones can lean into rich burgundy or violet hues for an effortlessly refined finish.

Not feeling confident yet? Start small by pairing bold lips with minimal makeup elsewhere. A bare-faced look or soft eye makeup lets your lipstick take center stage without feeling overwhelming. With practice, bold colors can feel as effortless as your everyday nude shades.

Ultimately, bold lipstick is a style statement that transcends “rules.” What truly makes it work isn’t just the undertone—it’s the confidence you carry while wearing it.

FAQ: Lipstick and Skin Tone

1. How do I know my undertone?

To determine your undertone, try these methods:

Look at the veins in your wrist: Blue or purple veins suggest cool undertones, green veins suggest warm undertones, and a mix suggests neutral undertones.
Jewelry test: If silver jewelry looks better on you, you’re likely cool-toned; if gold looks better, you might have warm undertones. If both suit you equally, you probably have neutral undertones.
The white fabric test: Compare how your skin looks against white fabric. Cool undertones brighten against pure white, while warm undertones glow against off-white.

2. What’s the difference between skin tone and undertone?

Your skin tone refers to the surface color of your skin (light, medium, dark). It can change with sun exposure or seasons. Your undertone, however, is the consistent subtle hue beneath your skin (cool, warm, or neutral), and it remains the same no matter your skin tone.

3. Can people with warm undertones wear cool-toned lipstick?

Yes! While warm undertones typically suit orange-based or earthy shades, you can make cool-toned lipsticks work by balancing them with complementary makeup or outfits. For example, a berry red with a touch of warmth might suit you better than icy purples.

4. Are there universally flattering lipstick shades?

Yes! Shades like classic red (with a perfectly balanced blue and orange base) and soft nudes with a mix of pink and beige often look great on most undertones.

5. How can I make a bold lipstick color work for me?

Find the right undertone match. Cool undertones look great with blue-based reds, while warm undertones shine with orange-based reds.
Keep the rest of your makeup simple to let the bold lipstick stand out.
Start with a sheer or tinted version of the bold color if you’re not ready for full coverage yet.

6. How do I keep my lipstick from smudging or fading?

Exfoliate and hydrate your lips beforehand.
Use a lip primer or concealer as a base.
Line your lips with a lip liner before applying lipstick.
Set your lipstick with a thin layer of translucent powder or a setting spray.

7. How do I pick a nude lipstick that won’t wash me out?

Choose a nude shade that matches your undertone:

Cool undertones: Look for nudes with hints of pink or mauve.
Warm undertones: Opt for nude shades with peachy or caramel tones.
Neutral undertones: Try balanced nudes with a mix of beige and pink.

8. Is matte lipstick better than glossy lipstick?

Neither is “better”—it depends on your preference and the occasion:

Matte: Long-lasting and bold but can feel dry on lips.
Glossy: Adds hydration and shine, making lips look fuller, but might require frequent touch-ups.

9. Can I mix lipstick shades to create my perfect color?

Absolutely! Mixing different lipstick shades or layering a gloss over a matte formula can help you create a custom shade perfect for your skin tone. Experimentation is key.

10. What’s the best way to test lipsticks in-store?

Swipe the tester on your wrist or fingertip (never directly on your lips for hygiene reasons). These areas mimic the tone of your lips better than your hand. Always check in natural light when possible.