16 Best Nude Lipsticks for Every Skin Tone in 2024
Find your perfect nude lipstick—from pinky-peach to deep brown—with expert tips and editor favorites for every skin tone and undertone.
The Best Nude Lipsticks for Every Skin Tone
Nude lipstick remains one of the most complex and sought-after products in the beauty world. Although the term “nude” might sound straightforward, what flatters one person can leave another washed out. The secret to finding your best nude lipstick lies in understanding your unique skin tone and undertone and how they interact with lipstick shades. After testing dozens of products across the Cosmopolitan editorial team, we’ve assembled the most comprehensive guide for finding the ideal nude lip for anyone, from ultra-fair to deep complexions.
Why Is Finding the Perfect Nude Lipstick So Difficult?
- Every person’s unique combination of skin tone and undertone affects how a nude lipstick appears after application.
- Subtle differences in pink, brown, peach, or caramel shades can dramatically change the effect—even between friends.
- Matching undertones is the key to avoiding a “washed out” look or clashing color intensity.
Top Nude Lipsticks in 2024: Editor Picks
We asked our team of makeup-obsessed editors to share their top picks for nude lipsticks that flatter a wide range of skin tones. Below you’ll find product highlights, practical application tips, and real-life reviews for every recommendation.
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk
- Price: $35
- Available at: Nordstrom, Walmart, Nordstrom Rack
- Pros: Comes in both original and medium shades—perfect for light to tan and deeper skin tones.
- Cons: Some reviewers find it pricey for the staying power.
Editor Note: “Four editors with light to medium-tan skin tones swear by this shade. It doesn’t wash out, is neither too pink nor too brown, and looks perfectly natural for daily wear. For added shine, layer with a gloss like Pat McGrath’s Blitz Gold.”
Customer Review: “After all the hype, I wanted to see if it was really that good and worth the $$$. After trying it on the first time, I fell in love. The color is such a good everyday lipstick.”
Picks for Fair, Medium, and Deep Skin
- Best for Fair/Pale Skin: Look for pinky-beige shades with cool undertones.
- Best for Medium/Olive Skin: Rosy nudes, caramel tones, and pink-based browns.
- Best for Deep Skin: Rich chocolates, deep browns, or purple-mauve shades with warmth or neutral undertones.
How to Choose Your Perfect Nude Lipstick
Step 1: Decide on Your Ideal Shade
Determine if you want a nude that’s nearly identical to your skin tone for a “your lips but better” effect, a slightly deeper brown that channels the ‘90s aesthetic, or a frosted nude for early-2000s vibes. Your personal style and occasion both make a difference in which nude is best for you.
What others are reading
Step 2: Match Your Undertone
Knowing your undertone is essential to finding a nude lipstick that enhances your complexion. Here are effective ways to determine yours:
- If you look better in gold jewelry, you likely have a warm undertone.
- If you prefer silver jewelry, or your skin turns pink with a crisp white t-shirt, you have a cool undertone.
- If both gold and silver suit you, or your veins appear olive/green and blue, you’re probably neutral or have olive undertones.
If in doubt, visit a makeup counter—many beauty advisors can swiftly guide you to your correct undertone.
Application Tip: For peachy-pink undertones, avoid oranges—try cool undertone nudes (purple, blue, or pink-based). For warm skin, reach for orange-y, red-based browns to bring out golden hues.
Step 3: Choose Your Lipstick Formula
Finish matters as much as color. Consider the following:
- Matte Liquid Lipstick: Offers major staying power and an intense, flat look. Try The Lip Bar Matte Liquid Lipstick.
- Matte Stick Lipstick: Delivers a similar finish, but often feels less drying, e.g., Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution.
- Glossy Lipstick: Combines hydration and shine; favorites include Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick and YSL Beauty Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick.
Editor’s Picks: Tried and Tested Nude Lipsticks
- Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk – Universally flattering pink nude (also available in deeper Pillow Talk Medium).
- MAC Velvet Teddy – Classic warm beige nude that suits most light to medium tones.
- Juvia’s Place Nubian Earth Lipstick – Range covers from caramel beige to deep brown for richer complexions.
- The Lip Bar Matte Liquid Lipstick – Perfect for those seeking long-lasting, dramatic matte nudes.
- Merit Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick – Balances color and comfort for subtle, everyday nude looks.
- YSL Beauty Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick – Delivers glossy shine in natural, nude hues.
- Pat McGrath Labs Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm – Hydrating, glossy nude finishes for low-maintenance wear.
Undertones Decoded: Warm, Cool, and Neutral
| Undertone | Skin Features | Best Nude Lip Shades |
|---|---|---|
| Warm | Golden, peach, or yellow | Orange, red-based browns, peachy nudes |
| Cool | Pink, red, or blue | Purple, blue, pink-toned nudes |
| Neutral | Mix of cool and warm; olive | Pink-brown, caramel, beige, versatile range |
How to Apply Nude Lipstick Like a Pro
Getting a flawless nude lip isn’t just about the product—it’s also about your technique:
- Prep your lips: Use a lip mask or balm (e.g., Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask) for smoothness.
- Outline your lips: Perfect the shape using a matching nude lip pencil.
- Layer for dimension: For extra shine, dab gloss (e.g., Pat McGrath Blitz Gold) over your nude lipstick.
- Adjust intensity: Blot for a subtle effect or layer for full opacity.
Nude Lipsticks for Deeper Complexions
Women of color often require nudes that don’t read “chalky” or ashy. Opt for rich caramels, chocolates, or berry-browns. Lip liners are your best friend for customizing undertones and creating definition:
- Chocolate or plum lip liners can turn almost any nude into a shade that pops.
- Barry M Pink Suede and Everything Rosy suit deeper tones when paired with brown or plum liner.
- Vitamin E-infused formulas provide moisture, avoiding dryness often seen with mattes.
Expert FAQs: Nude Lipstick Selection and Wear
What does “undertone” mean in lipstick?
Undertone refers to the subtle hue beneath your skin’s surface (warm: golden, cool: pink/blue, neutral: mix of both). Matching lipstick undertone to skin undertone creates harmony.
How do I choose the right nude lipstick for my undertone?
Check your jewelry preference, vein color, and how your skin reacts to different shirt colors. Then, match your lipstick: warm skin with peachy or brown-based nudes; cool with pink or purple-based nudes.
Do I need lip liner with nude lipstick?
A liner can add definition and correct undertone imbalances, especially for deeper skin tones or changing the effect of a light nude.
What formulas last the longest?
Matte liquids offer the best staying power but may feel dry. Stick mattes give similar results with added comfort. Glossy formulas are least long-lasting but most hydrating.
My nude lipstick looks ashy—what should I do?
Try layering with a brown, plum, or caramel lip liner, or switch to a warmer shade with more orange or gold in the mix.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
- Washing out: Avoid nudes too light or cool for medium/deep skin. Layer, blend, or choose warmer shades.
- Dryness: Opt for hydrating formulas or add balm before matte lipstick.
- Mismatch: Test shades in daylight—indoor lighting often changes perception.
Celebrity Inspiration: Iconic Nude Lip Looks
- Kim Kardashian: Caramel nude paired with sharp liner for high drama.
- Rihanna: Deep mocha lipstick for statement-making nude lips.
- Zendaya: Rose-nude with glossy, dimensional finish.
Glossary
- Pinky nude: Nude lipstick with pink undertones. Best for cool and neutral skin.
- Brown nude: Brown-based lipstick, ideal for medium/deep skin.
- Caramel: Warm, golden nude for olive to tan complexions.
- Frosted nude: Early-2000s style; often lighter with added pearl or shimmer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I prevent nude lipstick from looking dry?
A: Use a hydrating balm before application, or opt for lipsticks with moisturizing ingredients like Vitamin E.
Q: Can I wear nude lipstick for a formal event?
A: Absolutely. Choose a deeper, more pigmented nude and pair with defined eyeliner or bold blush for balance.
Q: What’s the best nude for olive skin?
A: Beige, caramel, or muted rosy nudes complement olive undertones beautifully.
Q: How do I find my signature nude?
A: Try different undertones, formulas, and finishes—don’t be afraid to mix, layer, or use liner for a customized effect.
Takeaways & Editor’s Advice
- Start with undertone—then experiment within your recommended shade spectrum.
- A good nude enhances your natural features, never washes out, and feels comfortable.
- Having several nude lipsticks lets you switch from everyday subtle to night-out drama as needed.
Finding the perfect nude lipstick isn’t impossible—it’s a journey of understanding your own skin tone, undertone, and style preferences. With these editor-tested recommendations and practical advice, the elusive dream of a perfect nude lip is finally within reach for everyone.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g24522891/nude-lipstick-all-skin-tones/
- https://africanismcosmopolitan.com/2015/06/30/nude-lipsticks-for-women-of-colour/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a65886580/best-lipstick-for-skin-tone/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/beauty/24955-10-best-nude-lipsticks-for-every-skin-tone-yup-even-yours
- https://www.mentedcosmetics.com/blogs/press-features/cosmopolitan-1
- https://www.mentedcosmetics.com/blogs/press-features/cosmopolitan-com
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