Brown or nude lipstick has been a trend with celebrities and influencers for over a year. The range of browns seen varies from matchy-mannequin to is-it-nude-or-pink. So how do you choose the right nude lipstick for your skin tone?
On one side of the spectrum (matchy-mannequin) are the shades that match your skin tone so closely you look like your lips don’t even exist. This is the look that most of us want to avoid because we love our lips! Then, on the exact opposite side of the nude spectrum are pinks that are kind of nude but not really.
We chatted with Global Makeup Educator Shawn Towne to get his advice on how to choose the right nude lipstick.
What’s the Best Brown/Nude Lipstick for My Skin Tone?
While brown or nude is a universal color that can be worn by anyone, to create the most natural look, you should never go for a straight brown. Our lip colors are enhanced with a degree of warmth, that’s why pink-browns are always recommended no matter your skin tone or color.
Nude Lipstick for Cool Skin Tones
“If you have a lot of pink in your complexion, a warmer based brown is best,” says Shawn. He recommends Craving Lip Fixation or Sharon PureMoist Lipstick.
Nude Lipstick for Warm Skin Tones
“If you have warmer or neutral skin tones (golden undertones), cooler browns are ideal,” says Shawn. You’ll want to try shades like Luscious PlayOn Lip Crayon or Raspberry PureGloss Lip Gloss.
Best Nude Lipstick for Your Skin Shade
Now that you know the general concept of choosing the right nude lipstick based on your skin’s undertone, the next step is whether you should opt for a beige, medium or brown lipstick shade.



NYC Just Kissed Lip Plumper
Blissful PlayOn Lip Crayon
Craving Lip Fixation Lip Stain/Gloss
Martini PurGloss Lip Gloss
Tricia PureMoist Lipstick
Content Lip Fixation Lip Stain/Gloss
Sarah PureMoist Lipstick
Hot Cider PureGloss Lip Gloss
Jamie PureMoist Lipstick
Yummy PlayOn Lip Crayon
Sydney Just Kissed Lip Plumper
Sharon PureMoist Lipstick
Luscious PlayOn Lip Crayon
Raspberry PureGloss Lip Gloss