How To Find A Nude Lipstick To Suit You

Forever in search of the best nude lipstick? You’re not alone! Everyone has a different version of ‘nude’ depending on their skin tone, ranging from a pale taupe to a dark, rich brown. But according to the experts, the general rule to keep in mind when selecting your ‘perfect’ nude is to opt for a hue one shade above the natural colour of your lip, with an undertone that best suits your skin. Sound far more complex than you thought? We’ve got a guide that will tell you everything you need to know.  

What is Nude Lipstick? 

The concept of nude lipstick is a shade that matches or resembles or is close to, your natural lip colour. Nude lipsticks generally act as a product that will give a finishing touch to your make-up instead of creating a statement look. Nude lipstick and lipliner can make your pout appear plumper, defined and chicer. 

How to Choose a Nude Lipstick 

To find your perfect nude, try and opt for a lip colour that matches the outer edge of your lips, which will often appear darker. It’s essential to choose a shade that matches the tone of your natural lips, too – for example, if your lips naturally have a rosy tone, try a more pinkish-nude or a darker, flatter brown shade if your lips are naturally more brown. 

Your nude lipstick can have a matte, satin, creamy or glossy finish – choose a texture that you love. But if you have dry lips, make sure to exfoliate your lips first to ensure a smooth, even application. Similarly, if you have fine lines above the lip, a blurring lip primer like the Extra-Firming Lip and Contour Balm, £33, will help.

Nude Lipstick for Dark Skin  

A warmer brown will work wonders for caramel-toned complexions, while deeper skin tones will want a darker, richer hue.  

Look for yummy shades of caramel, toffee, cappuccino or chocolate, along with orangey-based hues of terracotta.  

Nude Lipstick Shades               

Nude lipsticks generally have a pink or brown element to them. If your complexion is fairer, choose lipstick with a warm, rosy tinge. This will ensure that your complexion is subtly warmed up. For medium skin tones, try something a little peachier. When it comes to olive skin, a combination of peach and pink works a treat. If your skin tone is deeper, try a darker brown that will amplify your pout perfectly. 

Nude Pink Lipstick  

Is it a pinky hue for you? Then, take your pick from these perfectly rose-toned shades.  

Clarins Joli Rouge Refill in Soft Berry, £19

Victoria Beckham Posh Lipstick in Pout, £34 

Sisley Le Phyto Red No.20 in Rose Portofino, £42 

Nude Peach Lipstick  

Thought peachy-toned nudes were hard to find? Think again! These are the perfect shades for anyone with a medium skin tone. 

Huda Beauty Power Bullet Cream Glow Sweet Nude in Buttercup, £23

Lisa Eldridge Kitten Mischief Luxuriously Lucent Lip Colour in Kitten Mischief, £26 

Nude Brown Lipstick  

Caramel complexions work best with a neutral brown hue. These are our top picks: 

Patrick Ta Monochrome Moment Precision Lip Crayon in She’s Bold, £22 

Suqqu Sheer Matte Lipstick in 07 Koikurumi, £33 

Glossier Ultralip in Walnut Brown, £14 

Nude Deep Brown Lipstick 

For dark skin, try these beautifully rich shades.

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Unveil, £22 

Uoma Beauty Badass Icon Concentrated Matte Lipstick in Tracy, £21.50 

Beauty Pie The Unlipstick in Sheer Mocha, £32 

Nude Lipstick Sets  

Pairing a nude lipliner with lipstick can make for the perfect combination when you want to accentuate your pout, even out your lip area or make them look slightly bigger or smaller. Here are some of the best ones to go for. 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Fuller Looking and Sculpted Lip Duo Kit in Toffee Matte, £30 

Vieve Brat Lip Kit, £35 

Illamasqua Brazen Lip Kit, £35

Nude Lip Liners

No lip look is complete without a liner to exaggerate and perfect your natural lip shape. Here are the best universal nude lip liner shades:

Refy Lip Sculpt in Fawn, £18

Clarins Lip Definer in Nude Beige, £19

Too Faced Lady Bold Demi-Matte Long-Wear Lip Liner in Badass, £20

FAQ  

Do nude lipsticks suit everyone? 

The whole idea of nude lipstick is that it should look natural and perfectly compliment your complexion. Whether your skin is fair or dark, you should be able to find a nude lipstick to suit you.

How do I choose the best nude lipstick? 

This all depends on your personal preferences. If you like sporting a barely-there look, a nude tone that perfectly compliments your skin tone is best. However, there are no rules – and if you want to sport a deeper or paler nude, go for it!

What is the most natural-looking lip colour? 

There are a number of different techniques you can use if you’re still not sure how to find your perfect nude. A quick tip is to always go for a shade that is no darker than two shades below your natural skin tone. But, if all else fails, you can also try and match your lip shade to the natural colour of your nipple. It’s fail-safe, we promise.

Next Read: How To Pick The Perfect Red Lipstick For My Skin Tone