Have you ever fallen in love with a lipstick in the store — only to find that it looks completely different once you apply it at home? You're not alone.

One of the key reasons this happens is that different skin tones interact with lipstick colors in unique ways. The right shade can brighten our entire face, while the wrong one can feel dull or overpowering.

But don't worry — we don't need to be makeup experts to get it right. With a few simple tips, we can all find lipstick shades that complement our skin tone and bring out our natural beauty. Let's dive in!

Why Skin Tone Matters

Lipstick sits close to our skin and reflects light against it — so naturally, our skin tone affects how each shade appears.

When we choose colors that harmonize with our skin tone:

• The lipstick feels like a natural extension of our beauty — not a distraction.

The goal isn't to follow rigid rules, but to find shades that enhance and flatter us personally.

Understand Your Skin's Undertone

Before choosing lipstick shades, it helps to know our skin's undertone. This refers to the subtle hue beneath the surface of our skin — and it can be cool, warm, or neutral.

How to identify it:

• Look at the veins on your wrist:

o Bluish or purple veins = cool undertone

o Greenish veins = warm undertone

o Both bluish and greenish = neutral undertone

• Think about which jewelry suits you best:

o Silver = cool

o Gold = warm

o Both = neutral

Knowing our undertone will make choosing flattering lipstick shades much easier.

Best Shades for Fair Skin

Fair skin often has cool or neutral undertones, though some fair tones can also be warm.

Flattering shades:

• Soft pinks for a natural, fresh look

• Classic reds with blue undertones for elegance

• Coral tones for a playful pop of color

• Rose and mauve shades for everyday wear

What to watch for:

• Very dark or overly brown lipsticks may overpower fair skin.

Best Shades for Medium Skin

Medium skin, which includes olive and beige tones, is wonderfully versatile and can pull off a wide range of lipstick colors.

Flattering shades:

• Berry and plum tones to add depth

• True reds — both warm and cool — for impact

• Peach and apricot shades for softness

• Brick reds and terracotta tones for a sophisticated look

What to watch for:

• Very pale shades may wash out the complexion.

Best Shades for Tan Skin

Tan skin usually has warm or neutral undertones and pairs beautifully with rich, earthy shades.

Flattering shades:

• Warm corals for a sun-kissed effect

• Deep pinks and rose shades for versatility

• Bold oranges and fiery reds for vibrance

• Bronze and copper tones to highlight golden undertones

What to watch for:

• Very light beige shades may appear ashy.

Best Shades for Deep Skin

Deep skin tones are stunning with bold, saturated lip colors.

Flattering shades:

• Rich berry shades (cranberry, blackberry) for drama

• Deep reds and burgundies for timeless style

• Vibrant fuchsias for a bold statement

• Metallic or shimmery finishes to play with light

What to watch for:

• Light pastel shades may not provide enough contrast.

Test Before You Buy

When in doubt, always try the lipstick on your lips (not just on your hand). Our lips have a different tone from our skin, and the true color will only appear when applied where it belongs.

Many beauty experts recommend testing lipstick in natural light to see how it interacts with our complexion throughout the day.

Final Thoughts: It's About You

At the end of the day, the "perfect" lipstick is the one that makes us feel confident and beautiful.

While understanding skin tone and undertone helps, personal preference matters just as much. If a color makes you smile when you wear it — that's the right one for you.

And remember: makeup is a form of self-expression. Feel free to explore, experiment, and have fun with color!

We'd Love to Know Your Favorites!

Now, Lykkers — what's your go-to lipstick shade? Have you discovered any colors that flatter your skin tone beautifully?

Share your tips and favorites with us! Let's inspire each other to find those perfect lip colors that make us feel radiant and empowered. 💄✨