13 Best Lipstick Shades for Brown Skin That Look Stunning

Reviewed by Paveena Kh Rathour, Celebrity Makeup Artist  |  Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 14, 2024
Lipstick shades for brown skin
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

The world of beauty and fashion is constantly evolving, with new trends and products being introduced everyday. And, when it comes to makeup, finding the right shades that suit your skin tone can be a challenge. This is especially true for lipstick shades for brown skin tones. Ranging from deep reds to subtle oranges, the vast variety often starles us. But fret not! Here is everything you need to know before selecting the right lipstick shade for yourself. 

Lipstick is a makeup staple that can elevate any look! Meanwhile, since brown skin tones are incredibly diverse, there are a plethora of lipstick shades that complement and enhance their beauty. Addedly, while the wrong shade can easily clash or look unflattering, we have penned down some tips and tricks to help you find the best lipstick colors for dark skin. So, whether you prefer bold and vibrant colors or subtle and natural hues, keep reading to discover our top lipstick finds.

13 Best Lipstick Shades for Brown Skin

Experience the power of long-lasting matte finish and highly pigmented color with Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. This liquid lip makeup is designed to deliver a flawless, 16-hour wear that does not dry out your lips. Plus, the formula is infused with an exhilarating scent and a unique arrow applicator that allows you to achieve precise and even coverage with ease. Moreover, with its wide range of shades, you can choose from bold and vibrant hues to subtle and neutral tones that suit any occasion. 

Pros
  • No animal testing
  • No staining
  • Does not settle into fine lines
  • Precise applicator
  • Wide range of shades
  • Affordable
Cons
  • A little drying
  • Not long-lasting
  • Weightless

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Soft Matte Lip Cream

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Soft Matte Lip Cream
  • Get ready to turn heads and take on the day with this matte lip cream for NYX Professional Makeup. This highly pigmented lip cream provides a velvety smooth matte finish that lasts for hours without drying out the lips. The unique formula is enriched with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E, which help to keep lips soft and supple. Adding to that, its precision applicator allows for easy and precise application, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Its long-lasting wear and stunning color payoff further make it a must-have addition to any makeup collection.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Weightless
    • Transfer-proof
    • Flexible applicator
    Cons
    • Less pigmented
    • Might bleed
  • Buildable

    wet n wild Silk Finish Lipstick

    wet n wild Silk Finish Lipstick
  • This rich and buildable silk finish lipstick by Wet n Wild is the ideal addition to your makeup collection! It comes in the stunning shade Black Orchid Red, which will leave your lips looking luscious and kissable. Besides, the hydrating formula keeps your lips smooth and moisturized throughout the day while the rich color transforms your look instantly. Its easy-to-apply formula also glides on smoothly for a flawless finish that lasts for hours.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Buildable
    • Can be applied easily
    • Great shade range
    • Reasonably priced
    Cons
    • Fades fast
    • Poor packaging
  • Climate-Pledge Friendly

    Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick - Fiery

    Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick - Fiery
  • While people with really light skin may find it too vibrant, this lipstick shade by Stila would make an excellent choice for brown skin! With a single glide, the product deposits rich pigments onto your lips for an effervescent finish that brings out your best features. Unlike other intensely coloured lipsticks, this product goes dreamily over your lips as the infused emollients conduct the formula efficiently. Another thing we adore about this product is that its brush applicator is fine and slit like a doe foot, which allows you to trace your cupid’s bow precisely — so you can feel free to chuck that lip liner! 

    Pros
    • Moisturizing properties
    • Beautiful satin finish
    • Lasts adequately long
    • Full coverage
    • Efficient and hygienic container
    • A single coat goes a long way
    Cons
    • Not eatproof/drinkproof
  • REVLON Super Lustrous Matte Lipstick

    REVLON Super Lustrous Matte Lipstick
  • This lustrous matte lipstick is the ultimate choice for a long-lasting, matte finish liquid lip makeup. And, its stunning shade is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a night out with friends or a day at the office. Plus, the highly pigmented formula provides intense color payoff, while the moisturizing ingredients keep your lips feeling soft and hydrated. And lastly, the sleek, gold packaging adds a touch of luxury to your beauty routine, making this dark colored lipstick a must-have for any makeup lover. 

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Non-drying
    • No bleeding
    • Highly pigmented shades
    • Great packaging
    Cons
    • A bit cakey
    • Transfers a little
  • Stays For Long

    wet n wild Megalast Catsuit Matte Lipstick

    wet n wild Megalast Catsuit Matte Lipstick
  • This long-lasting liquid lipstick for brown skin is perfect for those who want a bold and daring look that lasts all day long. Its highly-pigmented formula gives you full coverage with just one swipe, while the lightweight texture keeps your lips feeling comfortable and moisturized throughout the day. To note, The Give Me Mocha shade is a beautiful warm-toned brown that will complement any skin tone. It's perfect for a day out with friends or a night on the town. There’s something more – its precision applicator ensures a flawless application every time, making it easy to achieve that perfect pout.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Lightweight
    • Highly pigmented
    • Non drying
    • Stays for long
    Cons
    • A bit chalky
    • Expensive
  • Ensures Precise Application

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Lip Lingerie XXL

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Lip Lingerie XXL
  • Upgrade your lipstick game today with this lip lingerie made with a smooth, creamy formula that glides effortlessly on your lips, leaving them with a velvet matte finish that lasts for hours. The XXL wand ensures precise application, so you can achieve the perfect pout every time. And, Unhooked is a stunning shade that complements a variety of skin tones, making it the go-to choice for any occasion. This liquid lipstick is also smudge-proof and transfer-resistant, so you don't have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day. 

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • Lightweight
    • No transfer
    • No cracks
    • Precise application
    Cons
    • Not smudge-proof
    • Strong smell
  • Wide Range of Shades

    Maybelline Color Sensational Ultimatte Lipstick

    Maybelline Color Sensational Ultimatte Lipstick
  • Indulge your lips in the luxurious feel of this lipstick, which is lightweight and comfortable and features a slim, matte design that effortlessly glides on and stays put for hours. This lip color for brown skin is the perfect addition to any makeup collection because of its beautiful shade of More Truffle. Each tube contains 0.06 oz of high-quality, long-lasting formula that you can apply easily and it will look great on your lips. Whether you're heading to work, running errands or going out on the town, it is the perfect choice for any occasion.

     

    Pros
    • No animal testing
    • Lightweight
    • High impact pigment
    • No staining
    • Easy to use
    • Wide range of shades
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
    • Not transfer-proof
  • Waterproof

    Mynena Brown Liquid Lipstick

    Mynena Brown Liquid Lipstick
  • Add some warmth and depth to your lips with this lipstick by Myenna. It is designed to stay put all day, so you can take care of your business endeavors without worrying about touch-ups. And, with its lightweight formula, you'll forget you're even wearing it. Adding to that, made with high-quality ingredients, this lipstick is a safe choice for those with sensitive skin. The matte finish adds a touch of sophistication to any look, making this lipstick ideal for both day and night wear. In tandem, its rich brown color, Cyndia is the perfect shade for those who want a bold and statement-making lip. 

     

    Pros
    • Waterproof
    • Lightweight
    • Paraben-free
    • Gluten-free
    • No-transfer
    • Smudge-proof
    Cons
    • Does not stay
    • Overpriced
  • Glides Easily

    Maybelline New York Color Sensational Nude Lipstick

    Maybelline New York Color Sensational Nude Lipstick
  • Make a statement with this lipstick from Maybelline. Its unique powder matte formula provides a smooth, velvety finish that feels comfortable on your lips. Also, the Carnal Brown shade is perfect for those who want a sophisticated, natural look with a touch of warmth. Furthermore, to be noted, its innovative formula is enriched with honey nectar that nourishes your lips and helps to prevent dryness. The lipstick is also easy to apply and provides full coverage, so you can confidently take on the day without worrying about reapplication. A plus point? It is the perfect addition to your makeup collection and complements any outfit or occasion.

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Highly pigmented
    • Opaque finish
    • Glides easily
    • Easily available
    • Wide range of shades
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Not smudge-proof
  • Fragrance-free

    wet n wild Mega Last High-shine Lipstick

    wet n wild Mega Last High-shine Lipstick
  • Get ready to elevate your look with this lipstick by Wet n Wild. It is perfect for achieving that bold and daring look that you have been dreaming of. Plus, the high-shine formula ensures that your lips stay moisturized and glossy all day long, while the long-lasting color keeps your pout looking fresh and vibrant for hours. To be noted, the Blush Pink Clothes Off shade is perfect for adding a pop of color to any outfit, and is suitable for all skin tones. The sleek packaging also makes this lipstick easy to carry with you wherever you go, so you can touch up your look on-the-go. 

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    • No gluten
    • Fragrance-free
    • Buildable
    • Budget-friendly
    Cons
    • No pigment
    • Poor packaging
  • REVLON Super Lustrous Lipstick

    REVLON Super Lustrous Lipstick
  • Enhance your natural beauty with this lipstick from Revlon. This high-quality lipstick is designed to provide a bold and vibrant look that lasts all day long. And, the Superstar Brown shade is perfect for any occasion, whether you're headed to the office or out for a night in the town. It glides on effortlessly, leaving your lips feeling hydrated and comfortable. The lipstick is also formulated with moisturizing ingredients to keep your lips looking healthy and nourished. 

     

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Super-moisturizing formula
    • Lightweight
    • Buildable
    • Wide shade range
    Cons
    • A bit pale
    • Poor texture
  • Oulac Metallic Shine Brown Lipstick

    Oulac Metallic Shine Brown Lipstick
  • Rock that flawless pout of yours with this lipstick by Oulac.This high impact lip color features a creamy, moisturizing formula that glides smoothly onto your lips for a long-lasting, metallic shine. And, the brown shade is perfect for a bold and sophisticated look that will take you from day to night. Adding to that, the luxurious texture of this lipstick feels light and comfortable on your lips, providing hydration and nourishment to keep them looking and feeling healthy.

     

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lightweight
    • No grainy feel
    • Moisturizing
    • Great packaging
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Small size

    Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best lipstick shades for brown skin tones, glance through our buying guide to make an informed decision.

     

    How to Choose a Lipstick Shade for Brown Skin?

    Here are a few aspects for consider while buying a lipstick shade for brown skin tones - 

    Undertone: The first step in choosing the right lipstick shade for brown skin tones is to determine your undertone. This means figuring out if your skin has warm, cool, or neutral undertones. A quick way to do this is to look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear green, you have warm undertones. If they appear blue, you have cool undertones, and if they appear both green and blue, you have neutral undertones.

    Laying more emphasis on the shades that look great on brown skin tones, Paveena Kh Rathour, a famous makeup artist says, “My personal recommendations for lipstick shades for brown skin tones would be any brand that’s in deep brown/taupe, deep wine (warm red tones), rosewood pink, or mauve (pink mauve)”

    Texture: The texture of the lipstick is also essential when choosing the right shade. If you have dry or chapped lips, it is best to avoid matte lipsticks as they can make your lips look flaky. Instead, opt for creamy or glossy textures that will hydrate your lips and give you a smooth finish.

    Finish: Lipstick comes in various finishes, including matte, glossy, and satin. The finish can make a big difference in how the lipstick looks on your skin. Matte shades are great for a bold, dramatic look, while glossy shades are perfect for a more natural look. Satin finishes offer a compromise between the two, providing a subtle shine without being too glossy.

    Patch Test: The best way to know if a lipstick shade will work for you is to try it on! Many stores offer testers, so take advantage of them to see how different shades look on your skin. If you're shopping online, look for swatches on models with similar skin tones to get a better idea of how a shade will look on you. 

     

    How to Use a Lipstick Shade for Brown Skin Tones?

    Here are a few steps you should stick for easy application of a lipstick shade - 

    • It is also essential to prepare your lips before applying lipstick. Exfoliate your lips using a lip scrub to remove any dead skin cells and make your lips smooth. Apply a lip balm to moisturize your lips and prevent your lipstick from drying out.
    • When applying lipstick, start by lining your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade. This will prevent your lipstick from bleeding and help define your lips. Fill in your lips with lipstick using a lip brush or lipstick tube. Blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess lipstick and set the color.
    • To make your lipstick last longer, you can use a lip primer before applying lipstick. A lip primer can help smooth out any fine lines on your lips and prevent your lipstick from fading or smudging.

    There are a variety of lipstick shades that complement brown skin tones. But, the key to finding the perfect one is to experiment with different shades and find the ones that make you feel confident and beautiful. From deep reds to vibrant oranges, the options are endless. And, with the best lipstick shades for brown skin tones, you can elevate any look and feel ready to take on the world.

    FAQ's

    What lipstick shades are best for brown skin?
    There are a wide variety of lipstick shades that can complement and enhance the natural beauty of brown skin tones. Bold and vibrant shades like deep reds, oranges, and pinks can make a striking statement, while more subtle nudes and browns can create a natural and understated look.
    Which lipstick for brown skin with warm undertones should you wear?
    Choosing the right lipstick for brown skin with warm undertones doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of knowledge about your skin's undertones and color options, you can easily find the perfect lipstick shade to enhance your natural beauty. Remember to consider factors such as the occasion, your personal style, and the finish of the lipstick to ensure that you achieve the desired look.
    Does orange lipstick suit dark skin tones?
    Orange lipstick can absolutely suit dark skin tones. It all comes down to finding the right shade and formula that complements your skin tone and personal style preferences.
    Does royal blue lipstick suit dark skin tones?
    Royal blue lipstick can definitely suit dark skin tones. It's all about finding the right shade and undertone that complements your skin tone. Dark-skinned individuals can experiment with different finishes, such as matte or glossy, to achieve a bold and glamorous look.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Lipstick shades must always be used based on your skin tone, says our makeup expert, Sayantani. To bring forth this list of the best lipstick shades, she selected a few products based on their features and online recommendations and asked her friends to test them. Based on the feedback, she has carefully created this list of the best-quality lipstick shades that complement brown skin tone. Her detailed list features the top-rated lipsticks that glide smoothly on the lips and are nourishing. Her personal favorite is Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick — it has a smooth matte finish, stays for 16 hours, and doesn’t dry out the lips.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

     

    Meet the Expert
    reviewer
    Paveena Kh Rathour
    Celebrity Makeup Artist

    Paveena Rathour, a bridal make up specialist with 15 years of experience in the beauty industry says that Bridal make More

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More