This article was co-authored by Katya Gudaeva and by wikiHow staff writer, Sophie Burkholder, BA. Katya Gudaeva is a Professional Makeup Artist and the Founder of Bridal Beauty Agency based in Seattle, Washington. She has worked in the beauty industry for over 10 years and worked with companies such as Patagonia, Tommy Bahama, and Barneys New York and with clients such as Amy Schumer, Macklemore, and Train.
There are 26 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
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With its endless palette of lipsticks, glosses, and stains, the makeup counter can be pretty overwhelming. So, how do you know which lipstick color is right for you? You’ll want to start by determining your skin’s complexion and undertones, then find out which lip shades best compliment your coloring. To get you started, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to choose the right lip color to match your skin tone, features, outfits, and more!
Finding the Best Lipstick Color for You
The most flattering lipstick colors for you will likely share undertones with your skin complexion. If you have cool undertones, for example, you’ll look great in cool-toned lipsticks like dusty rose or taupe. If you have warm undertones, warmer shades like terracotta or coral are more likely to light up your face.
Steps
Community Q&A
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QuestionIs it okay to wear lipstick when you have very big lips?Community AnswerYes, of course. The size of your lips isn't a reason for not wearing lipstick. Large lips can be your strongest point. Wear shades to match your tone and dress. Play them up rather than hiding them down. As it is not possible to miss them, playing down will result in mismatch of your features.
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QuestionI have very fair skin, and pale blonde hair, but I love dark purple! Could that be my lipstick color?Community AnswerTry it on, and if you like it, then rock it. These "rules" are just guidelines, and most fashion rules are made to be broken by strong personalities and determined people.
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QuestionOne lip of mine is dark and the other is light. What should I do?Community AnswerWearing lipstick should be able to balance them out. If not, you can try applying some foundation on your lips before the lipstick. You could also try exfoliating the darker lip regularly, which will help get rid of dead skin and should lighten it a little over time.
Video
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Tips
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You might also consider whether you want your lips to look smaller or larger. Dark shades may actually make your lips look smaller and poutier, while lighter shades can add the illusion of plumpness and width.[27]Thanks
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These guidelines are meant to be helpful, but are by no means rules. While your undertone and complexion will help guide you, they aren't the end-all-be-all of choosing a lipstick color. It is important to try on different shades and, ultimately, choose what you feel looks best.Thanks
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No matter the shade, lipstick will always look best when applied to soft and healthy lips. Make sure to exfoliate your lips (gently!) once a week to remove dead skin cells. Moisturize your lips daily with a hydrating balm to keep them plump. Protect your lips by using an SPF balm when you’re not wearing lipstick.Thanks
Tips from our Readers
- Purse your lips until they turn red, then pick a lipstick shade that best matches your lip color. Choose a brighter shade for parties or a lighter one for everyday use.
- Try to get a lip liner that's the same color as the lipstick so it doesn't look like 2 different colors.
- If you have blue eyes, use nude brown lipstick to accentuate that inner blue and make your eyes pop.
References
- ↑ https://www.triprinceton.org/post/the-art-of-lipstick-how-skin-tone-influences-your-favorite-shades
- ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-identify-your-skins-undertone
- ↑ https://www.elle.com/beauty/a32493187/skin-undertone-guide/
- ↑ https://www.lasvegaswedding-makeup.com/how-to-pick-the-perfect-lip-color-for-your-skin-tone-on-your-wedding-day/
- ↑ https://thegritandgraceproject.org/health-and-beauty/how-to-pick-the-perfect-shade-of-red-for-every-skin-tone
- ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-find-the-best-lipstick-color-for-your-skin-tone
- ↑ https://thegritandgraceproject.org/health-and-beauty/how-to-pick-the-perfect-shade-of-red-for-every-skin-tone
- ↑ https://khurairacosmetics.com/how-to-select-the-best-lipstick-for-your-skin-tone/
- ↑ https://annamaegroves.com/find-your-perfect-blue-red-lipstick/
- ↑ https://beautyandbedlam.com/figuring-out-the-best-colors-for-your-skin-tone/
- ↑ https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/your-skin
- ↑ https://intothegloss.com/2016/09/best-lip-stain-for-pale-skin-serge-lutens/
- ↑ https://thesalonproject.com/best-lip-color-for-olive-skin-and-black-hair/
- ↑ https://beautyunhyped.com/2023/02/13/the-ultimate-red-lipstick-comparison-post/
- ↑ https://www.racked.com/2016/1/6/10711704/red-lipstick-indian-south-asian
- ↑ https://www.thecreativeglow.com/2015/01/how-to-make-your-eyes-pop-basic-eye.html
- ↑ https://www.vogue.in/beauty/content/how-to-use-a-lip-liner-a-celebrity-makeup-artist-makeup-tips
- ↑ https://intothegloss.com/2021/10/eye-or-lip-pick-one/
- ↑ https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/beware-these-gross-things-can-happen-when-you-use-makeup-testers-in-stores
- ↑ https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/makeup/a15183/how-to-test-lipstick-shades/
- ↑ https://youtu.be/oCATL2vkNWw?t=17
- ↑ https://vuenj.com/find-your-finish/
- ↑ https://www.instyle.com/lip-stain-vs-lip-tint-6752085
- ↑ https://www.vogue.com/article/spring-beauty-matte-glossy-lipstick-lipgloss-lisa-eldridge-violette
- ↑ http://www.prima.co.uk/fashion-and-beauty/make-up/a21653/lipstick-colour/
- ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-apply-matte-lipstick
- ↑ http://makeup.allwomenstalk.com/tips-on-picking-the-perfect-lipstick-for-your-skin-tone
About This Article
To choose the right lipstick for you, start by finding a color that is 1 or 2 shades deeper than your natural lip color. You can test this by applying the lipstick to your lower lip and comparing the shade to your upper lip. If you have light skin, choose pinks, corals, or beige colors, and if you have medium skin, try rose or berry shades. For deep complexions, select browns or purples like caramel or plum. Additionally, choose darker, matte lipsticks to make your lips appear small, or lighter, shimmery shades if you want fuller lips. For more tips, like how to choose the right red lipstick, read on!
Reader Success Stories
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"I hate wearing lipstick because when I try any on, it doesn't fit my skin color! I do want to wear it, I just don't know what suits me best! When I found this article, it helped me so much. Thank you!"..." more