Finding the best nude lipstick for one’s skin tone can be overwhelmingly individual-specific and challenging. Recently, I faced this dilemma myself. I remember standing before my mirror, trying on a nude lipstick that was too pale for my complexion. It washed me out, leaving me feeling less than confident. That's when I understood the importance of finding the right shade. Be it with pinkish hues, coral undertones, or brown pigments, the perfect nude lipstick should feel like a second skin, enhancing your natural beauty without overpowering it.

Motivated by this personal experience, I embarked on a curated quest to find top-notch nude lipsticks. From neutral to sassy nudes, I've explored an array of tones, ensuring there's a shade for every skin type. This list is my labor of love, a collection of top picks that I believe will help every individual find their ideal match. 

Whether you're fair-skinned or have a rich, deep complexion, my curated selection promises to cater to your needs. Let's embrace the beauty of simplicity and find your perfect nude together. Scroll away!

• 1
  Editor’s Choice

  Maybelline Vinyl Ink Lipstick Superstay Liquid Lipstick - 95 Captivated

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As an avid enthusiast of Maybelline’s quality beauty products, I tried the Vinyl Ink Lipstick in the shade 95 Captivated and it was was nothing short of “captivating” for me. What I like about this nude lipstick is not just its trendy hue but the seamless blend of comfort and longevity it offers to my lips. The way it effortlessly complements my fair skin and warm undertones is a stroke of makeup magic. 

The formula strikes a balance, offering a comfortable feel without compromising intensity. Its precision applicator makes for easy and precise application. This lipstick unquestionably earns its spot as a reliable and chic nude choice in my collection.

Key Ingredients: N/A

Type: Liquid

Finish: Matte

Shades: 20

Cruelty-free: Yes

2

Best Satin Finish

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick - 800 Fairest Nude

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The Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in 800 Fairest Nude is a sublime creation by L’Oréal Paris for fair-skinned individuals with cool undertones, embracing the essence of timeless beauty. Its formulation, enriched with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, gives it a creamy texture that feels heavenly on the lips. Perfect for sensitive skin, it boasts a smudge-resistant quality that weaves through hectic days flawlessly. 

This lipstick's unique charm lies in its kiss-proof resilience, leaving lips adorned without the worry of transfer. With every application, it whispers sophistication and elegance, making it a must-have for those seeking a nude lipstick that transcends the ordinary.

Key Ingredients: Argan oil and vitamin E

Type: Cream

Finish: Satin

Shades: 52

Cruelty-free: Yes

3

Best Liquid Lipstick

NYX Professional Makeup Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick - Sandstorm

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As the epitome of versatility, NYX Professional Makeup stands as the go-to brand for every makeup need, and their Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in the shade Sandstorm is a testament to this excellence. What makes this lipstick soft on the lips is the rich formulation of avocado oil and vitamin E, which makes its texture plush and comforting to the lips. The velvety formulation glides effortlessly, enveloping lips in a rich, sand-hued indulgence. 

Not only does it endure the day with remarkable longevity, but its compact design makes it a breeze to carry anywhere. This nude lipstick transcends expectations, offering a perfect balance of comfort and style, with each application.

Key Ingredients: Avocado oil and vitamin E

Type: Liquid

Finish: Matte

Shades: 29

Cruelty-free: Yes

4

Best Nude Brown Lipstick

Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick - 014

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Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Lipstick in shade 014 is a true gem in the world of nude lipsticks. Promising up to 8 hours of wear, this highly pigmented lipstick provides an elegant, natural glow suitable for all skin tones and makeup looks. The inclusion of castor oil is particularly impressive, as it not only hydrates the lips but also contributes to a smoother application (research published on NCBI).

The exclusive Black Diamond pigment complex in the formula brings unparalleled luminosity to your lips. Applying it in one smooth stroke, you can effortlessly achieve an elegant, polished look. I appreciate how the castor oil helps keep my lips moisturized, avoiding the common issue of dryness with long-wear lipsticks. For its outstanding performance and nurturing ingredients, I would rate this lipstick a solid 4.5 out of 5.

Key Ingredients: Castor oil

Type: Cream

Finish: Cream

Shades: 8

Cruelty-free: Yes

5

Best Matte Nude Lipstick

Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Matte Sculpting Lipstick - Nude

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As a fan of Estée Lauder's skincare, I'm impressed by how they've infused nourishing properties into this  nude lipstick. The lipstick boasts a wholesome blend of red raspberry seed, meadowfoam seed, and apricot seed oils, ensuring that your lips stay nourished, while salicornea herbacea extract maintains moisture. 

Additionally, its long-lasting, matte finish is remarkable, as it resists bleeding and creasing for up to 10 hours. Having tried it out, I believe that this product is more than lipstick; it's a treatment, that makes lips look plumper and healthier. The luxurious, magnetic case adds a touch of elegance. It's a perfect blend of color, comfort, and lasting wear.

Key Ingredients: Red raspberry seed, meadowfoam seed, and apricot seed oils

Type: Cream

Finish: Matte

Shades: 14

Cruelty-free: Yes

6

Best Nude Lipstick for Olive Skin

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick - Bow N Arrow

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For my girls who love some hydrating lip color, the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick is a dream come true. This long-wear, transfer-resistant liquid lipstick combines bold, high-pigment shades with a smooth, comfortable matte finish in a vegan-friendly formula. With natural moisturizers like vitamin E and sunflower seed wax, this lipstick ensures your lips stay hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.

What sets it apart is its creamy consistency that effortlessly glides over the lips, settling into a true matte look. Bow N Arrow offers a stunning nude shade, perfect for any occasion, while the range includes everything from unique pops to neutrals, including the iconic chestnut rose shade, Lolita.

Quick Tip:

To truly tap on the long-lasting prowess of this lipstick, ensure you don’t apply any lip balm beforehand and work with a small quantity of the product in a single application. Applying too much can hamper longevity.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E and sunflower seed wax

Type: Liquid

Finish: Matte

Shades: 13

Cruelty-free: Yes

7

Best Nude Lipstick for Fair Skin

MAC Creme D' Nude

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Renowned for its high color payoff, MAC’s Creme D'Nude lipstick delivers a beautifully natural hue with a smooth texture and a moderate shine that's just right. Enriched with vitamins E and C, it not only beautifies but also cares for your lips. The added vanilla aroma and flavor make the application a delightful experience — trust me, I resisted eating it up!

I adore this shade for its versatility — it's perfect for those with fair to medium skin tones, offering a subtle elegance ideal for everyday wear or professional settings. Creme D'Nude's understated yet impactful presence makes it a go-to for job interviews or casual meetups, giving just the right touch of polish without overwhelming. 

Key Ingredients: Vitamins C and E

Type: Cream

Finish: Shiny

Shades: 8

Cruelty-free: No

8

Most Popular Nude Lipstick

Dior Addict - # 628 Pink Bow

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For a nude with hints of pink, the Dior Addict lipstick is a notable choice for an eco-concious purchase. Resembling a high-fashion accessory, it features a formula composed of 90% natural-origin ingredients, that won’t irritate the skin or harm the environment. Encased in an ultra-couture, refillable design, it epitomizes luxury and sustainability. Key natural ingredients include hydrating hyaluronic acid and protective floral lip care, ensuring not only a beautiful color but also nourished, comfortable lips. 

The subtle pink hue is perfect for a variety of occasions, adding a touch of elegance. I highly recommend splurging on this high-end lipstick for its combination of luxury, eco-friendliness, and quality. It's an investment for both your beauty routine and environmental responsibility.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

Type: Cream

Finish: Cream

Shades: 40

Cruelty-free: No

9

Best Natural Colored Lipstick

ILIA Color Block Lipstick - Amberlight

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The ILIA Color Block Lipstick in Amberlight stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking a full-coverage French nude with neutral undertones. Its formula is enriched with conditioning oils like organic castor seed oil, mango seed butter, and apricot seed oil, ensuring your lips stay nourished and soft. 

This lipstick offers a creamy finish, which remains smooth on my lips as long as it lasts. In my opinion, this lipstick is a must-have for chapped lips seeking the right nude lip shade with a moisturizing touch!

Quick tip:

For the best application, exfoliate your lips before applying the lipstick. This prepares a smooth canvas for an even application. If you prefer a matte stain look, apply the lipstick with your finger, gently blotting the color onto your lips for a softer, more diffused effect. This approach allows for a more personalized and versatile use of the Amberlight shade.

Key Ingredients: Castor seed oil, mango seed butter, and apricot seed oil 

Type: Cream

Finish: Cream

Shades: 15

Cruelty-free: Yes

10

Best Nude Lipstick for Medium Skin

Clinique Dramatically Different Lipstick - Blushing Nude

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The Dramatically Different Lipstick in Blushing Nude is perfect for those who appreciate a classic, understated “clean girl” look. The beauty of this lipstick lies in its perfect balance of color and nourishment, thanks to ingredients like vitamin E and shea butter. Its unique formula includes a 3D pearl center that adds fullness to the lips, whereas the pigmented edges boost color.

The shade, Blushing Nude, stands out for its ability to enhance one's natural lip color, especially if you have a medium to dark skin tone. Whether you're heading to the office or out for a casual lunch, this lipstick adds just the right touch of sophistication without being overpowering. In my opinion, its simplicity and effectiveness in enhancing natural beauty make it a one-of-a-kind nude lipstick.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter and vitamins E and C

Type: Cream

Finish: Cream

Shades: 16

Cruelty-free: No

11

Glo Skin Beauty Lipstick - French Nude

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This lipstick in the shade French Nude is a must-have as it impresses one with its fusion of skincare and makeup. The luxurious lipstick not only delivers a stunning rose nude shade but also nourishes the lips, thanks to its proprietary blend of ingredients. The addition of a natural UV shield is a thoughtful touch, ensuring lips stay healthy while looking gorgeous. I adore the satin finish, which strikes a perfect balance between matte and glossy. 

The inclusion of antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, and green tea extract, along with titanium dioxide, provides an extra layer of lip care. Besides, the magnetic-closing cap is a clever feature, keeping the product sanitary and secure. It's a standout choice for anyone seeking high-quality, nourishing nude lipstick.

Key Ingredients: Vitamins A, C, E, kaolin clay, and green tea extract

Type: Cream

Finish: Satin

Shades: 20

Cruelty-free: Yes

12

Runway Rogue by Patricia Hartmann - Guest List

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Recently, I tried Runway Rogue's 'Guest List' from their 90s Vibe collection, and it's a nostalgic nod to the '90s with a modern flair. This full-coverage matte lipstick is wonderfully moisturizing, a rarity for matte formulas. It's enriched with hydrating squalane, vitamin E, licorice root extract, and castor seed oil, keeping my lips smooth and supple. 

Applying it is effortless — a simple swipe gives a rich, beautiful nude color, and a second coat intensifies the look without feathering or bleeding. The vegan aspect is a huge plus. It's the perfect balance of matte finish and comfort, making it essential in my makeup bag for chic occasions.

Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin E, licorice root extract, and castor seed oil

Type: Cream

Finish: Velvet

Shades: 8

Cruelty-free: Yes

13

Lipstick Queen Sinner Lipstick - Bright Natural

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Last but not least, to wrap up my list, I chose Lipstick Queen's Sinner Lipstick in Bright Natural. This lipstick is a powerhouse with its 90% pigment matte opaque finish, making a bold statement with just one swipe. Shea butter and vitamin E leave the lips feeling soft and nourished, a significant plus for matte lipstick. However, while the shade is universally flattering, it might not suit every skin tone perfectly. 

Also, the matte texture, although moisturizing, might not be as hydrating as some creamier formulas. Lipstick Queen encourages experimentation with beauty, as it offers a range of colors and textures, but this particular shade, while stunning, may not be as versatile for daily wear. It's a great choice for making a statement but might require careful pairing with the rest of your makeup to achieve the desired effect.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter and vitamin E

Type: Cream

Finish: Matte

Shades: 17

Cruelty-free: No

When selecting the perfect nude lipstick, several key factors come into play to ensure a flattering and comfortable look. These factors include considering your skin tone and undertone, evaluating the presence of hydrating ingredients, and assessing the finish and pigmentation of the lipstick.

1. Types Of Skin Tones And Undertones: Nude lipsticks are favored for their versatility, seamlessly transitioning from a subtle everyday look with minimal eye makeup to a bolder evening style when paired with dramatic eye makeup. Choosing a nude lipstick that complements your natural coloring involves understanding both your skin tone and undertone. Here's a breakdown based on different skin tones:

- Fair Skin Tones: If you're on the fair side, you likely lean towards a cooler palette, while those with slightly deeper light skin may find warmth more flattering. Fair skin tones are best complemented by nude lipsticks with pink or peachy undertones. These undertones add a touch of warmth to fair complexions, creating a flattering and natural look.

- Medium Skin Tones: Medium skin tones have the flexibility to experiment with warmer beige or caramel shades in nude lipsticks. These tones enhance the natural warmth of medium complexions, providing a harmonious balance.

- Caramel Skin: For those with seet as caramel tone, I recommend looking at warmer hues like light browns and deep browns  that bring out sun-kissed undertones

- Darker Skin Tones: Individuals with darker skin tones should consider rich, chocolatey liners as a foundation for the perfect nude lip. Popular options include the iconic MAC liner in Chestnut or Pat McGrath's creamy-gel formula in Deep Dive. Explore shades like Ctzn's Chaar, a dusky mauve with brown nuances, or Chanel's Nude Brun for a sophisticated edge.

- Deeper Skin Tones: Those with deeper skin tones can enhance their natural beauty by selecting a nude lipstick that is just a shade lighter than their foundation. This subtle contrast creates a beautifully harmonized and elegant look.

Now, let's delve into the role of undertones 

- Warm Undertones: If you have warm undertones, consider nude lipsticks with peach or golden undertones. These warm hues harmonize with the natural warmth in your skin, creating a cohesive and radiant appearance.

- Cool Undertones: Cool undertones pair well with nude lipsticks featuring pink or mauve-based undertones. These cooler shades complement the natural coolness in your skin, providing a refreshing and polished look.

- Neutral Undertones: If your undertones are neutral, you have the flexibility to explore both warm and cool nude shades. Neutral undertones allow for versatility, enabling you to choose nude lipsticks that enhance your overall complexion.

Understanding your skin tone and undertone is pivotal in selecting a nude lipstick that enhances your natural beauty. By aligning the undertones of the lipstick with those in your skin, you create a harmonious and flattering look, ensuring that the chosen nude shade complements your unique coloring.

1. Ingredients: Comfort is paramount in lipstick, and the presence of hydrating ingredients can make a significant difference. Look for lipsticks infused with moisturizing components such as shea butter, jojoba oil, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help keep your lips hydrated, preventing them from feeling dry or chapped throughout the day and contributing to overall lip health. This is particularly important since nude lipsticks are often chosen for a more natural and understated appearance, and dry lips can detract from that aesthetic.

2. Pigmentation: The finish and pigmentation of nude lipstick greatly influence the final look. Nude lipsticks come in various finishes, including matte, satin, glossy, and sheer. The choice of finish depends on personal preference and the desired effect. Aim for a nude lipstick that's one or two shades deeper than your skin tone, ensuring it harmonizes with your skin's undertones for that flawless finish. Matte nude lipsticks provide a sophisticated and polished look, while satin finishes offer a balance between matte and shine. Glossy nude lipsticks add a touch of glamour and can make lips appear fuller. Sheer nudes are ideal for those who prefer a subtle hint of color. Pigmentation is another crucial factor. Additionally, some nude lipsticks are more opaque and deliver full coverage, while others are buildable or designed to be sheer. The level of pigmentation impacts the intensity of the nude shade on your lips, so choose according to your preference and the occasion.

3. Spectrum of Nudes: Aim for a nude lipstick that's one or two shades deeper than your skin tone, ensuring it harmonizes with your skin's undertones for that flawless finish.

Peachy Perfection: Medium skin tones will revel in peachy nudes, golden beiges, caramels, and taupe - each enhancing your natural glow.

Warmth for Caramel Skin: Embrace warmer shades that accentuate your sun-kissed undertones, elevating your look with every application.

Pinky Nudes: For lovers of the understated chic, nude lipstick is your secret weapon. Its versatility shines across a spectrum of skin tones, offering everything from true beige to shimmer-kissed pinky nudes. 

Remember, "nude" is a personal journey, with a palette as diverse as our needless skin tones and undertones. 

4. Texture And Longevity: Consider the texture of the nude lipstick and its longevity on the lips. Some people prefer lightweight formulas that feel barely there, while others enjoy a more substantial feel. Matte lipsticks often provide longer wear but can be drying, so if longevity is a priority, consider long-wearing formulas with hydrating ingredients to strike a balance. Creamy textures offer a comfortable feel and are forgiving on dry lips, making them an excellent choice for everyday wear. If you're like Dresher and adore a glossy look, don't hesitate to layer a clear gloss over your go-to lipstick, be it matte or creamy.

5. Versatility: A great nude lipstick should be versatile enough to complement various makeup looks and occasions. Choose a shade that can seamlessly transition from day to night. A versatile nude can be easily paired with bold eye makeup for a statement look or worn alone for a subtle and understated appearance. The ability of nude lipstick to adapt to different styles adds to its value in your makeup collection.

6. Packaging And Application: The packaging and application method of nude lipstick can impact your overall experience. Consider the practicality of the packaging, whether it's a sleek bullet or a convenient pencil. Additionally, think about how the lipstick applies — is it smooth and easy to work with? Does it require a lip liner for precision? These factors contribute to the ease of use and convenience, enhancing your overall satisfaction with the product.

7. Cruelty-free And Ethical Considerations: For those who prioritize cruelty-free and ethical beauty products, check whether the nude lipstick brand aligns with your values. Many brands now emphasize cruelty-free practices and ethical sourcing of ingredients. Look for certifications or information on the brand's commitment to these principles, ensuring that your beauty choices align with your ethical standards.

8. Recommendations: Celebrity makeup artists often emphasize the benefits of choosing the right everyday lipstick, particularly highlighting the advantages of a lightweight satin lipstick. When selecting a product for light skin with yellow undertones, they recommend opting for a lipstick that offers a soft-focus finish, often achieved with a glossy texture. Key lipstick ingredient callouts include a moisturizing formula, which is essential for maintaining lip health, and a preference for a vegan formula, aligning with ethical and environmental considerations. This approach ensures that the lipstick not only enhances natural beauty but also nourishes and cares for the lips.

Whether you prefer a matte finish or something that lights up your features with luminous color, there's a nude out there waiting to become part of your signature look. Keep in mind that personal preferences and individual needs vary, so finding the ideal nude lipstick involves balancing these factors based on what matters most to you.

Applying nude lipstick effectively involves a few key steps to achieve a polished and natural look:

1. Start with a Smooth Base: Ensure your lips are well-hydrated and exfoliated. Use a lip scrub or gently brush your lips with a toothbrush to remove any dry skin. Apply a moisturizing lip balm to create a smooth canvas.

2. Use a Lip Liner: Outline your lips with a lip liner that matches your natural lip color or the nude lipstick shade you'll be using. This helps define the edges and prevents the lipstick from feathering.

3. Choose the Right Nude Shade: Select a nude lipstick shade that complements your skin tone and undertone. This ensures a harmonious and flattering finish.

4. Apply Lipstick: Using the lipstick bullet or a lip brush, apply the nude lipstick evenly on your lips. Start from the center and move outward, filling in the entire lip area. Be precise, especially along the lip edges.

5. Blend And Even Out: Press your lips together to distribute the lipstick evenly. If needed, use a lip brush to blend and ensure a seamless application. This step helps prevent any uneven color distribution.

6. Blot for a Natural Finish: For a more natural look, blot your lips with a tissue after applying the nude lipstick. This removes excess product, leaving a subtle and comfortable finish.

7. Highlight the Cupid's Bow: If you want to accentuate your lips, add a small amount of highlighter or a light, shimmery eyeshadow to the cupid's bow. This technique enhances the lip shape and adds a touch of dimension.

8. Clean up Edges: Use a small, precise brush with a bit of concealer to clean up any edges and perfect the lip line. This step gives your nude lipstick application a polished and professional appearance.

Remember, the key to a successful nude lipstick application lies in choosing the right shade for your skin tone, using a lip liner for definition, and paying attention to the details for a clean and polished finish.