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Choosing the right lipstick color is a game-changer. It instantly boosts your confidence and completes your look.
But let’s be real. Most of us have a drawer full of “almost right” shades that never see the light of day. In most cases, the color you love simply doesn’t always fit you. For instance, imagine someone with a warm undertone falling in love with a cool-toned baby pink lipstick. It looks stunning in the tube, but once applied, it somehow washes her out, making her complexion appear dull and lifeless. The problem? The undertone mismatch.
What if you could pick the perfect lipstick shade every single time? In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to choose a lipstick color that flatters your skin tone, enhances your natural lip shape, and expresses your unique style.
Know Your Skin Tone: The First Step to Finding Your Lipstick Match
Understanding your skin tone matters, and more importantly, your undertone. These two factors determine how a lipstick shade will actually look on you.
While they are generally interchangeable terms, there are also slight difference:
l Skin tone is the visible color of your skin—light, medium, or deep. It can change slightly with sun exposure.
l Undertone is the subtle hue beneath your skin’s surface, and it never changes.
The three main undertones are:
l Cool: pink, red, or bluish hues
l Warm: golden, peachy, or yellow hues
l Neutral: a balanced mix of warm and cool
According to beauty experts like Byrdie and Charlotte Tilbury, the same lipstick shade can look wildly different depending on the “canvas” of your skin. A shade that complements your undertone will brighten your whole face. One that clashes? It can leave you looking dull or washed out.
How to Choose the Right Lipstick Color for Your Skin Tone
The next question is: how to know which lip color suits me? Now first, let’s identify your undertone, which is key when learning how to pick the right lipstick color:
Check your wrist:
l If your veins appear blue or purple, you likely have a cool undertone.
l If they look greenish, you probably have a warm undertone.
l Can’t tell? You might have a neutral undertone.
Jewelry test:
l Silver looks best on cool undertones.
l Gold flatters warm undertones.
Once you know your undertone, choosing the right lipstick shade becomes much easier. Here’s what works best for each:
l Cool Undertone: Choose blue-based reds, berries, mauves, and cool pinks. These shades add a fresh, bright glow to your complexion.
l Warm Undertone: Go for orange-reds, corals, peachy nudes, and warm browns. These shades harmonize beautifully with warm undertones.
l Neutral Undertone: You’re in luck! Almost every lipstick shade suits you, from bold berries to earthy terracotta tones.
At Censored Cosmetics, we offer subtle Eve, rosy First Lady for warm undertone, and vibrant Honeypot, glamorous Bad Stepmom and mysterious Medusa for cool undertone.
Choosing Lipstick Colors That Complement Your Lip Shape
Your lip shape also plays a major role in how a color works on your face. Lipstick isn’t just color, it’s a sculpting tool. Here’s how to choose lipstick color based on your lip shape:
Thin Lips: Go with light and bright shades like peach, nude, or light pink. Add a touch of gloss or satin finish to the center of your lips for a plumper effect.
Full Lips: You can confidently rock bold, deep shades like classic reds and plums. Matte finishes are especially striking and elegant on fuller lips.
Uneven Lips: A lip liner is your MVP. Use it to gently shape and balance your lips before applying lipstick. Choose a liner close to your lipstick shade for a seamless finish.
Understanding Lipstick Finishes
The finish of your lipstick impacts not just the look, but also the overall vibe of your outfit. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular lipstick finishes:
| Finish Type | Look & Texture | Best For | Tips & Occasions |
| Matte | Flat, highly pigmented | Full lips or long-lasting wear | Bold, elegant looks; ideal for formal events or long days |
| Satin | Soft sheen; smooth and creamy | Most lip shapes | Great for everyday wear; comfortable and slightly moisturizing |
| Glossy | High shine; wet-look finish | Thin lips or youthful styles | Adds volume and plumpness; perfect for casual or evening outings |
| Sheer | Light color payoff; balm-like | Beginners or natural looks | Easy to apply; great for minimal makeup days |
| Metallic | Shimmery, reflective finish | Statement looks or bold styles | Fun for parties or festivals; use with neutral eye makeup |
| Cream | Rich color with slight shine | Dry lips or those wanting comfort | Combines color and hydration; good all-rounder |
Pick a Lipstick That Enhances Your Makeup and Style
Your lipstick ties your entire look together, so make sure it balances your makeup rather than clashing with it. The right lipstick color can elevate your whole appearance.
Got smokey eyes? Pair them with a nude or soft pink lip to balance the drama.
Minimal eye makeup? Go bold with your lips—a red, berry, or bright coral will pop beautifully.
Also, consider the vibe you’re going for:
Everyday look: Stick with satin, sheer, or creamy nudes and pinks for a natural feel.
Night out: Bring out the matte reds or deep berries for instant glam.
Whether you’re rocking a classic red or a moody plum, your lipstick looks should always reflect what makes you feel powerful and authentic.
Bonus: Build Your Lipstick Wardrobe
Want to be ready for any occasion? Build a capsule lipstick wardrobe. Start with four essentials:
l A flattering nude
l A timeless red
l A go-to pink
l A bold, confidence-boosting shade
This small but mighty collection covers you for everything—from a job interview to a first date or weekend outing.
Choosing lipstick doesn’t have to be a guessing game anymore. You now have the tools to pick the right lipstick shades that truly work for you—based on your skin tone, undertone, lip shape, and lifestyle.
But don’t forget: the rules are just a guide. Makeup is personal. It’s play. It’s power. So experiment. Mix and match. Break the rules when it feels right.
Recap: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know which lipstick color suits me best?
A: Start by identifying your skin’s undertone—cool, warm, or neutral. Then choose shades that complement it.
Q: What’s a universal lipstick color that works for everyone?
A: Shades like rosy mauves, peachy pinks, and certain berry tones tend to suit most skin tones.
Q: Can I wear bold lipstick for daytime?
A: Absolutely! Just keep the rest of your makeup minimal. A bold lip paired with a bare face or clean eyeshadow can be effortlessly chic.
Ready to discover your perfect match? Explore our curated lipstick collection and find the shade that’s destined to become your new favorite.