How to Choose the Right Lipstick for Your Skin Undertone (Finally Get It Right)

Introduction

Finding your signature lipstick shade isn’t just about preference—it’s about undertone. That red that makes your friend glow might completely wash you out. But once you understand your skin’s undertone, choosing a lipstick that enhancesyour natural features becomes simple. In this blog, I’ll help you discover which lip colours suit cool, warm, and neutral undertones—so every shade you wear feels like it was made for you.

Quick Recap: What’s a Skin Undertone?

• Cool undertone: Skin has pink, red, or bluish tones

• Warm undertone: Skin has golden, peachy, or yellow tones

• Neutral undertone: A mix of warm and cool tones—usually balanced

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💡 Your undertone doesn’t change with seasons or tanning—it’s your skin’s natural base tone.

I have a blog on, How to Find Your Skin Undertone.

The Best Lipstick Shades for Each Undertone

💄 Cool Undertones

Cool-toned skin looks best with blue-based, rosy, and berry hues. These tones brighten the complexion and bring out your natural flush.

Try:

• Blue-red (classic cherry red)

• Berry shades

• Cool pinks

• Mauve

• Plum

  
  

💡 Avoid orange-based reds or peachy tones—they can clash with your natural coolness.

💄 Warm Undertones

Warm skin glows in earthy, orange-based and golden lip shades. These enhance your warmth and add vibrancy.

Try:

• Brick red

• Terracotta

• Peachy nudes

• Coral pink

• Warm caramel

💡 Steer clear of purple or blue-based lipsticks—they may make your complexion look dull.

💄 Neutral Undertones

If you’re neutral, you’re in luck—most lipstick shades work on your skin. Your focus should be on depth and balance rather than undertone extremes.

Try:

• True red

• Rosewood

• Dusty coral

• Nude pinks

• Pinky-beige

  
  

💡 Stick to balanced shades—too warm or too cool can still look a little “off.”

How to Tell If a Lipstick Suits You

• Does your skin look brighter, eyes more awake, and teeth whiter? It’s a win.

• Does your skin look grey, tired, or washed out? Time to try a different undertone.

• Can you wear it without foundation and still feel fresh? That’s your colour.

Pro Artist Tip:

If you’re testing lipstick in-store, swipe it on the side of your jaw or bottom lip—not the back of your hand. Undertone match matters most near your face.

And if you ever want to find your perfect nude, choose a lipstick shade that’s closest to your natural lip colour—just one or two tones deeper. It’s the most flattering and effortless everyday look you'll ever own.

Final Thoughts

The right lipstick doesn’t just add colour—it lifts your entire look. When it matches your undertone, it becomes effortless, flattering, and confidence-boosting. So next time you're lipstick shopping, take this guide with you and let your lips do the talking.

Love & Artistry, Philippa