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Finding the Perfect Nude Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

by Khadija Husain

17 Sep 2024

beauty

Over the years, lipstick has been a symbol of beauty, power, and self-expression. Among bold reds and playful pinks, a quiet revolution has emerged: the rise of the perfect nude lipstick. Once a backstage beauty secret, nude lipsticks have become a must-have in every makeup collection, offering a natural, polished look for any occasion. But finding the perfect nude for your skin tone can be tricky. In this article, we explore the rise of nude lipsticks, how to find your perfect shade, and iconic brands leading this beauty revolution.


The Birth of the Nude Lipstick Trend


Nude lipstick wasn’t always a beauty staple. Before the 2000s, most people gravitated towards the traditional reds, pinks, or browns. Then came makeup artists like Bobbi Brown, who in the '90s championed the idea of enhancing natural beauty rather than covering it up. Her line of neutral lipsticks opened up a new market for subtle, everyday beauty. Fast forward to today, and nude lipsticks have become synonymous with effortless elegance.

What once seemed like a single shade now covers a spectrum of hues that complement different skin tones—from soft beige for fair skin to deep caramel for darker complexions.



Finding Your Perfect Nude Lipstick


Not all nudes are created equal. What works for one person may wash out another. Here’s a guide to finding the perfect nude lipstick based on your skin tone:


Fair Skin Tones: For those with fair skin, a nude lipstick with a slight pink or peach undertone can help prevent the lips from looking too pale. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury offer a range of pinky nudes, with the Pillow Talk range being a cult favourite. Another great option is Bobbi Brown's “Sandwash Pink”, a soft, nude-pink that gives a naturally elegant finish.




Medium Skin Tones: If you have a medium or olive skin tone, you’ll want to find a nude with peach or warm beige undertones. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in “Bahama” is an excellent choice, offering a soft brown hue that flatters olive and medium complexions. Meanwhile, Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in “Nude Look” provides a warm, beige-pink that’s ideal for a chic, polished look.







Tan Skin Tones: Nude lipsticks with caramel or warm brown undertones complement tan skin beautifully. Tom Ford’s “Sable Smoke” is a luxurious warm-toned nude that harmonizes well with tan skin. Additionally, YSL Rouge Pur Couture in “Beige Tribute” offers an elegant blend of beige and peach, creating a sophisticated and subtle look.





Deep Skin Tones: To flatter deeper skin tones, consider shades like chocolatey browns, rich caramels, mocha browns, deep caramels, or nudes with a subtle plum undertone. The MAC Satin Lipstick in "Mocha" strikes a harmonious balance of warmth and depth, enhancing tan skin without overpowering it, making it a popular choice. For a more creamy and luxurious alternative, Laura Mercier's Rouge Essentiel Silky Crème Lipstick in "Brun Naturel" offers a deep, warm nude that complements dark skin tones beautifully, providing sophistication and versatility for any occasion.





The Perfect Nude Look: How to Wear It

A nude lip doesn’t have to mean a bare look. The versatility of nude lipstick allows you to play up your eyes, cheeks, or outfit without competing with bold lip color. For a fresh and dewy look, pair your nude lipstick with soft blush and glowing skin. If you’re going for something more glamorous, a smoky eye and nude lip is the ultimate combination, drawing attention to the eyes while maintaining balance.


Why Nude Lipsticks Are Here to Stay


The nude lipstick trend speaks to our collective shift towards more natural beauty. As consumers seek products that enhance their features rather than transform them, nude lipsticks are seen as a timeless option that offers versatility, elegance, and ease. Plus, their adaptability makes them ideal for transitioning from day to night looks or from casual to formal settings. With brands embracing diversity and consumers demanding products that cater to all skin tones, the nude lipstick revolution is far from over.






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