How To Find the Best Nude Lipstick for Every Skin Tone
Plus, a look at our favorite formulas to try.
A wear-anywhere nude lipstick is one of the few products we’d argue that every beauty enthusiast should have in their makeup bag. A nude lip is incredibly versatile—it pairs as well with a natural daytime look as it does with a sultry smokey eye. But finding the best nude lipstick for your skin can feel tricky, especially when there are so many similar-looking shades to choose from. We’re here to help. Ahead, we’ll share a look at some of our favorite neutral lipstick colors for every skin tone and explain what to look for (and avoid) when shopping for nude lipstick.
Hello everybody my name is Bre Rook and welcome to the L'Oréal Paris channel Today I'm gonna share with you one of my favorite L'Oréal lip shades in 4 different finishes so you can see firsthand how they compare from liquid to gloss to satin to matte you're gonna be able to see these beautiful finishes and I'm gonna also share with you some tips on choosing the right finish for you and whatever makeup look you're trying to achieve I don't know about you but I love me a good lip plumper and I'm so excited for this new lip product it's the Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil with 24 hours of hydration it's infused with hyaluronic acid and tripeptides are instantly smoother plumper looking lips This is what my lips look like before I apply the lip oil this is what my lips look like after I apply the lip oil it is incredibly effective and beautiful This is my favorite shade Worth It I love this more neutral rosy looking shade it's just so pretty to me and it's incredibly versatile love the applicator because it has little massaging beads makes for the most luxurious application I'm telling you let the tingle settle in that's like my favorite part it's not an overpowering tingle it's a very refreshing and light tingle this is such a great finish to choose if you're doing an everyday makeup look it gives a very effortless look I love how it also looks after you wear for a couple of hours I also feel like it would look amazing with a lip combo take a lipstick and pop it on top this is such a versatile lip product and I promise when you try it you're just gonna fall in love next I'm gonna share with you the Color Riche Satin Lipstick in again that shade Worth It this beautiful lipstick is infused with argan oil and vitamin E to leave the lips soft and moisturized offers that vibrant color with just a single swipe It doesn't bleed doesn't smear it doesn't migrate this is gonna be your classic satin finish you can choose to use a lip liner with this lipstick I think it's a very flawless application when you do but one of my favorite aspects of this particular lipstick is the design and that beautiful point that allows for a very easy application to where you don't have to use lip liner Start up here round it out gosh look at that finish you don't even need a lot of coats because that pigment is so powerful This formula is so hydrating I love it personally think this finish is great for a glam look because it will compliment a gorgeous like exaggerated eye looks so well but of course you could wear this everyday too is the Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte in the shade again Worth It the formula is infused with hyaluronic acid for fuller softer and healthier lips with each swipe it doesn't bleed feather or migrate and has long wearing powdery finish if you love matte lipsticks this is for you when it comes to matte lipsticks I really like a precise application so I'm actually going to combine this lip with a lip liner and we're gonna go in with the Colour Riche Lip Liner in that shade Worth It I love this lip liner because it perfectly defines it's anti-feathering and it's rich in color the gorgeous lip liner gorgeous shade look at how stunning this is This lip combo has to be one of my favorites this is definitely giving me more of a glam look can't say that I would sport this every day but I know some of you would so go ahead this would be great for an event date night going out whatever even now I feel like this adds a glam aspect to this like natural neutral makeup look that I already have going pop this on and you immediately look like you're ready to go like fashion show right let's go for the last finish let's take it up a notch this is still technically a matte finish but I'm telling you this liquid lip is going to rock your world The infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick in that shade Worth It while it offers that bold and beautiful color it's also infused with hyaluronic acid for all day comfort it's velvety it feels weightless resists smudging and transfer I'm gonna go ahead and start lining this out just like this and then filling it in just like that and down here incredibly powdery but hydrating which is so hard to find with a matte liquid lip that's why it's one of my favorites as you can see the drama is here with her tried and true this will stay on all day long this will have you set so if you're looking for something it's gonna last you got your matte look no transfer no smudge this is it and there you have it 4 different finishes in the shade Worth It I hope you guys enjoyed this If you want to learn more about these products and find out where to buy head over to lorealparisusa.com the links are below The next finish that I'm gonna share with you
Nude Lipstick for Fair Skin Tones
Finding a natural-looking nude lipstick for light skin can be challenging, as shades that lean more beige or taupe can easily wash you out. Instead, try to look for a lipstick that matches your natural lip color (which is usually more pinkish).
Best colors
Lipsticks with soft pinkish undertones are typically the best nude lipsticks for fair skin. These shades will look natural but won't wash you out the way lighter brown and beige shades might. Soft coral, pinky-beige, and rose are all great options that beautifully flatter fair skin. For a classic lip look, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in Worth It, a soft, pinkish-nude lipstick with a flattering satiny finish. If you’re looking for a nude matte lipstick to add to your collection, this flattering hue can also be found in the L’Oréal Paris Intense Volume Matte Lipstick and L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick collections.
Colors to avoid
If you’re looking for a natural-looking nude lipstick for pale skin, steer clear of anything too dark—ideally, your lipstick should closely match your natural lip color. A darker pink hue can be flattering, but it won’t read as “nude.” Similarly, it’s generally best to steer clear of nude lipsticks that have prominent yellow undertones, as these hues can wash you out. That’s not to say you can’t rock warmer shades—just that you need to be choosy when you do. We’re big fans of the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in Le Nude Unstoppable for a warmer nude lip look.
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Nude Lipstick for Medium Skin Tones
When looking for the best nude lipstick for medium skin, you have plenty of options—soft pinks, beiges, and toffee tones can all work well on you. The key is to select a lipstick that’s a shade or two darker than your natural skin tone—anything lighter won’t provide the effect you’re looking for.
Best colors
Dusty rose hues are among the most flattering (and natural-looking) nude lipsticks for medium skin, as they tend to mirror the lips’ natural color. For a satiny, healthy-looking finish, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in Worth It Medium—the mid-toned rose hue is a perfect pick for medium skin. Like the original Worth It, it’s also available as a matte cream lipstick and as a matte liquid lipstick, so you can choose your favorite formula. Deeper corals, warm browns, and sandy beiges can also be great shades to consider.
Colors to avoid
As a general rule, it’s best to avoid wearing a nude lipstick color that’s too similar to your skin tone, as you don’t want your nude lips to completely blend in with your skin. One great idea to make your lips pop within the nude range is to apply a semi-sheer lip gloss or oil for a subtle wash of color. The L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil in La Nuit Sparkle is an excellent option. It looks dark brown in the tube but sheers out on the lips to an ultra-flattering warm raisin hue. Plus, the hyaluronic acid-infused formula provides up to 24 hours of hydration without a sticky or tacky feel.
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Nude Lipstick for Olive Skin Tones
Olive skin is unique because it can be fair, medium, or deep in tone—it always, however, has a subtle greenish or gold cast. Those with this skin tone have plenty of options for nude lipsticks, from soft peachy hues to bolder almond tones. Again, you’ll get the most flattering results if you pick a color a shade or two darker than your natural skin tone.
Best colors
If you want to accentuate your skin and score a natural lip look, we suggest trying a caramel or golden beige tone. These warmer hues will help balance out the green in your skin instead of washing you out the way a cool pink or taupe might. If you tend to favor a matte lip, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Liquid Lipstick in Le Nude Defiant or the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick in Snooze Your Alarm. For those who prefer a satiny finish, we’re fans of the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Le Nus by Colour Riche Intense Nude Lipstick in Nu Irreverent.
Colors to avoid
The main rule of thumb for olive skin is to avoid any lipstick that’s too cool or light—you don’t want to look like you’re wearing concealer on your lips instead of nude lipstick. If you’re having trouble nailing down a shade that looks natural on your skin, try a tinted gloss (we love the L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil in Nude Macaron) or use our virtual try-on tool to test-drive different shades until you find your fit.
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Nude Lipstick for Dark Skin Tones
Those with deep skin tones should typically steer clear of anything labeled “nude,” as these tend to be too light and too beige for darker skin. Instead, look for something in the caramel or brown family to help enhance your natural lip color.
Best colors
Dark brown lipstick is incredibly flattering for those with deeper skin tones, as it draws attention to the lips without overpowering them. For a luminous, natural lip look, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in Worth It Intense. The deep chocolate brown hue boasts a subtle plummy undertone for just the right amount of color. If you prefer matte lipsticks, try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in the same shade.
If you have warm-toned skin, you’ll fare best with a hue that leans slightly redder. The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick in Lazy Sunday is an excellent pick. Wear it alone or top it with the L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil in Wine O’ Clock for a flattering, high-shine finish.
Colors to avoid
If you have deep skin, steer clear of anything too light or too vibrant. Lighter shades can make your lips appear chalky, while vibrant shades—while pretty—aren’t ideal for a nude lip look.
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How To Find the Best Nude Lip Liner for Your Lip Look
Once you’ve found the best nude lipstick for your skin tone, it’s time to apply it—and finding a lip liner to match can help ensure your nude lip look lasts. Browse some of our top picks below.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lip Liner in Worth It
If you have fair skin, use this pinky-nude pencil to define your lips prior to applying your lipstick. The rosy shade is designed to pair with our Worth It lipsticks, so you can easily create a cohesive lip look without having to shop around for a shade match.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lip Liner in Au Naturale
Whether you simply want to accent your natural lip shape or are looking to give your pout a subtle boost, this nude lip liner is a great one to add to your arsenal. The soft pinkish-brown shade works particularly well for those with medium skin tones.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lip Liner in Toffee to Be
Before swiping on your brown lipstick, trace your lip line with this creamy lip liner. The soft caramel hue is an excellent choice for those with olive skin, as it boasts a subtle warmth that’ll pair perfectly with your nude lip.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lip Liner in Worth It Intense
Last but definitely not least is this satiny, chocolatey plum liner. It’s made to pair with our Worth It Intense lipstick shades and glides on effortlessly to help define the lips. As a darker shade, it’s an excellent choice for those with deep skin looking for a natural-looking nude lip liner.
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Next Up: How To Find the Best Red Lipstick for Your Skin Tone
Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris
