Complete guide on how to find your perfect lipstick shade. Lipstick has the magical power to change your full look. A single coat can make you look more confident, fresh, set to shine, and ready to own the day. But here is the tricky part: Finding the perfect lipstick shade is felt to be almost impossible.
You have tried on a lot of lipsticks at the store, only to end up confused or disappointed when the shade looks completely different in natural light.
1. Why Finding the Right Lipstick Shade Matters
Lipstick is more than just makeup—it is an instant game changer. The right color can:
Make your face look brighter without the need for other makeup.
Make your teeth appear whiter if the undertones are right.
Match your personality and style—bold, soft, or playful.
On the other hand, being made to look dull, having smaller lips, and having an unbalanced overall makeup look can be caused by the wrong lipstick shade” is already largely in the passive voice.
2. Know Your Skin’s Undertone
The secret of picking the perfect lipstick is mainly understanding your undertone.
What are undertones?
Your skin tone is not just light, medium, or dark. It has some hidden color—called an undertone—which has an impact on how colors look on you.
There are three main undertones:
Cool (pink, red, or bluish undertones)
Warm (yellow, golden, or peachy undertones)
A neutral tone combines both cool and warm elements.
How to Find Your Undertone
Here are three simple tests to check:
Vein Test:
Look at the veins on your wrist.
Greenish veins = Warm undertone
Bluish/Purplish veins = Cool undertone
A mix of both = Neutral undertone
Jewelry Test:
Does gold jewelry look good on you? You are warm-toned.
Does silver jewelry look good on you? You are cool-toned.
Both look great? Lucky you are; you are neutral.
White T-Shirt Test:
Put a white cloth or T-shirt near your face in natural light.
You are considered cool-toned if your skin looks rosy or pink.
If it looks golden or yellow, you are warm-toned.
3. Best Lipstick Shades for Every Undertone
Once you know your undertone, choosing lipstick shades becomes easy for you.
For Cool Undertones
Look for shades with blue or purple hints.
Best Shades: Berry, plum, cherry red, cool-toned pinks, mauve.
Avoid orange-based reds or corals, as they will wash out your skin.
For Warm Undertones
Warm skin tones glow in orange, coral, and brick shades.
Best Shades: Peach, coral, brick red, warm nudes, terracotta, and warm browns.
Avoid shades with blue undertones—they might look bad.
For Neutral Undertones
You can apply almost any shade!
Best Shades: True reds, rosy pinks, soft peaches, and dusty mauves.
Avoid: Very pale nudes that can make your skin look dull.
4. Matching Lipstick to Your Skin Tone
Besides undertones, skin tone deepness also plays a major role:
Fair Skin:
Light pinks, soft corals, and peachy nudes work well.
Avoid very dark colors unless you want a bold look.
Medium Skin:
Rose, mauve, and berry shades complement beautifully.
Try coral reds or warm nudes for everyday wear.
Olive Skin:
Brick reds, deep corals, and warm browns go against olive tones.
Avoid ashy nudes—they can make the skin look dull.
Dark Skin:
Bold shades like plum, burgundy, chocolate brown, and bright reds look elegant.
Deep berries and fuchsias also increase richness.
5. Do not Forget Your Lip Shape
Your lip shape can also influence how a shade looks on you:
Thin Lips: Light and glossy shades create the illusion of fullness.
Full Lips: Matte or deep shades enhance shape without crushing.
Uneven Lips: Lip liner and lipstick in a flattering shade can balance the shape.
6. Swatch Before You Buy
Never judge a lipstick just by the tube!
Test on your wrist or, ideally, your lips.
Check the colour in natural daylight, not just store lighting.
Wait for a few minutes to see how it looks on your skin tone.
7. Everyday Lipstick vs. Statement Lipstick
When making your lipstick wardrobe, have at least:
everyday nude (close to your natural lip colour)
bright colour (pink, coral, or red for daytime glam)
bold shade (deep red, berry, or brown for special occasions)
This way, you have lipstick for every mood and outfit.
8. Finish and Formula Matter Too
Even the perfect shade can, surprisingly, look dull if the finish does not suit your style.
Matte Lipsticks: Are long-lasting and bold but feel dry.
Satin/Creme Lipsticks: Comfortable, slightly shiny, and great for daily wear.
Glossy Lipsticks: Add shine and fullness—perfect for light or natural looks.
Liquid lipsticks offer high pigmentation, long wear, and a matte finish, but they can dry out your lips. Alternatively, if you’re unsure or new to liquid lipsticks, starting with satin or cream finishes is recommended, as they are often more forgiving and beginner-friendly.
9. Seasonal Lipstick Tips
Summer: Bright corals, pinks, and glossy finishes feel good.
Winter: Deep plums, wine shades, and rich mattes add warmth.
Spring: Soft peach, rosy pinks, and pastel glosses are perfect.
Fall: Brick reds, burnt oranges, and earthy tones shine.
10. Trust Your Confidence
The perfect lipstick is not just about rules—it is about how it makes you feel.
If a color makes you feel confident and happy, wear it with pride
Try new shades you would never normally try; you might find a new favorite.
At the end of the day, makeup is self-expression, not a strict rule.
Final Thoughts on how to find your perfect lipstick shade
Finding your perfect lipstick shade takes a little experimenting, but it is worth it. Once you know your undertone, skin tone, and preferred finish, the lipstick aisle becomes easy instead of a puzzle. So go ahead—swatch, experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. The perfect lipstick is the one that makes you smile every time you wear it.