Explore More
For everyday, sultry glam, there’s nothing that tops a nude lipstick.
Especially if you’re into the whole no-makeup makeup look (aka, red lipstick isn’t what you normally reach for), a nude lipstick is both versatile and flattering on a variety of skin tones — ranging from true beige-toned nudes to pinky nudes with a little bit of shimmer.
“A ‘perfect’ or true nude lipstick should be a shade or two darker than your complexion, and have the same undertones as your skin,” Natalie Dresher, bridal and special event makeup artist, told the New York Post. “Nude lipsticks are popular because they can be worn as an everyday lipstick with minimal eye makeup or dressed up for night with a more elaborate eye.”
I’m riding the neutral train, simply because I don’t have to think about the occasion I’m flaunting it to, and it’s the most practical for every day, IMHO. More, it allows me to really play up my eyeshadow and liquid liner, while accentuating my lips with a clear lip gloss for that extra juicy look.
That said, I tested out a variety of brands (it looks like I robbed a makeup counter) to find the 13 best nude lipstick options so you don’t have to. I also swatched the nude lipstick shades that made the cut, so you can most accurately see if you’d like to go a shade darker or lighter.
Check out our in-depth FAQ section following our review for makeup artist- and beauty expert-approved products and tips, too. You’ll also find expert-recommended nude lipsticks for dark skin tones as well.
How we tested
While swatching and swiping the crème de la crème of nude lipsticks, I kept specific criteria I kept in mind while testing shades for nearly two years, while some new shades for a few weeks. All in all, it doesn’t take a long time to test makeup products — especially lip products — compared to other items like skincare, so this review incorporates some first impressions-style review notes, as well as some commentary on my tried-and-true favorites I’ve been using for the long haul.
Here’s what I based lipstick testing around:
- Pigmentation: Because nude lipsticks aren’t as pigmented as say, a berry shade, pigmentation is key. Does it apply evenly in one or two coats?
- Formulation: Mostly dependent on preference, I took note if a lipstick was either creamy or matte. While I prefer creamy, matte shouldn’t be ignored, either (especially with a clear gloss to top it off!)
- Longevity: Though lipstick is a makeup product that’s easy to reapply again and again (in stark contrast to full-coverage foundation), I don’t want to reapply every 20 minutes. I took note of how long each lipstick lasted on a typical day.
Additionally, I tested each lipstick with the Too Faced Lady Bold “Badass” Lip Liner — my favorite nude lip liner that complements fair skin especially well.
Shade tested: “Fairytale Ending”
Pros:
- Ultra-creamy and hydrating
- “The perfect nude”
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature a true lipstick applicator, which may be a deal-breaker for some
This less-than-$15 lipstick blew me away from the first swipe onto my lips. The L’Oreal Paris Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick is by far, the most flattering on my skin tone and one I dub “the perfect nude.” Whether worn to the office or out to dinner, it’ll offer that your-lips-but-better look. More, it’s ultra-hydrating without a lip gloss, allowing you to forego another product to top it off.
Shade tested: “Very Victoria”
Pros:
- Perfect “day-to-night nude lipstick”
- Well-pigmented
Cons:
- Not as hydrating as others tested
Everybody raves about Charlotte Tilbury’s “Pillow Talk” lipstick (which, I must admit, is a flattering shade on a variety of skin tones). However, nobody talks about “Very Victoria” — and it’s the shade I reach for more. Oh, and it’s not just because it’s my name (wink, wink).
Though it’s a bit darker than most, I don’t feel like it’s too stark of a contrast from my fair skin. I love how it seamlessly flows from daytime to nighttime, making this multi-purpose pigment a makeup bag staple. Oh, and it’s packaging is divine, and it looks incredible with your lip liner.
For more, check out our full Charlotte Tilbury brand review.
Shade tested: “Modesty”
Pros:
- Extraordinary pigmentation and hydration
- Curved applicator makes it easy to apply
Cons:
- The lipstick itself is delicate, so you’ll have to ensure it’s positioned all the way down and capped when not in use
MAC Cosmetics’ bullet-shaped lipsticks make me nostalgic to my middle school days when I’d hop to the MAC counter at my local mall and swatch shades (now, we do this for a living). I’ve been a user of the “Modesty” shade for years now — worn to job interviews, parties, date nights and more.
Its pigment is just right and, the best part? It won’t smear all over your teeth. The brand’s slightly curved lipstick applicator — characteristic of all its shades — is one of the most beginner-friendly I’ve tested.
Like most lipsticks, you want to make sure the stick itself is turned all the way down and capped when not in use — but especially this one. I find that pressing too hard can make it break at times, so you just have to be careful.
Shade tested: “15 Showcasing Nude”
Pros:
- True satin finish that feels luxurious on the lips
- Stunning packaging
Cons:
- The formulation is prone to smearing, so a little goes a long way
I’m a firm believer that every gal deserves to treat themselves to a YSL lipstick. Sure, it’s not your budget-friendly, $5 purchase, but the brand is notorious for its beyond-gorgeous neutral shades that have a place for every skin tone.
It’s a true satin finish, which means it feels more like a lip balm than a standard lipstick. For this reason, I love wearing it because, to me, it’s a two-in-one hydrator and pigment. While it does smear more than most, it’s a testament to how creamy it truly is. Pro tip: apply slowly and use the edges of the stick when hovering over your lips.
Shade tested: “Dainty Daze”
Pros:
- Wonderful brand and formulation for more brown-toned shades of nude lipstick
- Impressive pigment, considering the price
Cons:
- Doesn’t blend as well as others tested
The NYX Professional Makeup Suede Matte Lipstick colored me impressed (I had to use this fitting lipstick pun here). For a product that’s less than $10, I didn’t have too high of hopes, but I found myself pleased with how the “Dainty Daze” shade complimented my fair skin.
I typically apply more pink-toned nudes to my lips as my undertones are pink, but this one is a nice switch-up from the norm. It’s pigmentation is lovely, though it doesn’t blend as well compared to others. However, it’s not a deal-breaker for me, personally.
Shade tested: “Pure Hollywood”
Pros:
- Long-lasting pigmentation
- Full-coverage option that doesn’t budge
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature a true lipstick applicator, which may be a deal-breaker for some
I’ve been a brand fan of Anastasia Beverly Hills for years (and, had my fangirl moment when I interviewed its president for my full brand review). While L’Oreal Paris’ Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick took the cake as “best nude lipstick overall,” I’ve been using Anastasia’s “Pure Hollywood” shade for more than a year and love how it looks and feels.
It’s a standout product, for sure, because it simply doesn’t budge as often as some others tested. Consider it a full-coverage foundation in a sea of tinted moisturizers; it offers a little somethin’ something more.
Shade tested: “Insight”
Pros:
- Nourishing feel once applied
- Smooth and sleek packaging
Cons:
- Doesn’t last as long as some others tested
I stand behind bareMinerals for a few reasons, a main one being its Mineralist Lip Gloss Balm which I wear a couple of times a week (it’s fantastic, and I recommend picking it up with this MINERALIST Hydra-Smoothing Lipstick).
In short, if you find yourself with chapped lips and are seeking a well-toned nude shade, this one has the it-factor. It’s lightweight, has impressive color and is encased in sleek, smooth packaging — mimicking the intent of its formulation.
Shade tested: “110 Pastel Exaltation”
Pros:
- Creamy finish
- “The perfect nude pink lipstick”
Cons:
- Packaging could be better, compared to some others tested
For those who want to save money and have an everyday, pinky nude lipstick, run to L’Oreal Paris Glow Paradise Hydrating Balm-in-Lipstick with Pomegranate Extract (specifically, the shade “110 Pastel Exaltation”). Much to my delight, it measured up to some high-end lipsticks I’ve tried, its creaminess on-par with some $20 and $30 options in my makeup bag.
While the packaging could be more secure, the beauty lies in the formulation. It’s worth every penny, and a good pick-me-up if you’re seeking that nude-pink hybrid.
Shade tested: “Skin Tease”
Pros:
- Compact applicator, making it ultra-travel-friendly
- True nude color that doesn’t wash out fair skin
Cons:
- Not readily available across multiple online retailers
- Not as pigmented as some others tested
The Buxom Full-On Satin Lipstick isn’t one to sleep on (instead, it’s one to apply, and then apply some more!) It’s more akin to a lip stain than a traditional lipstick, but its applicator is one and the same. It’s a handy toss-in for your work tote or backpack when on-the-go — given it’s more compact nature — as well.
Though it’s not readily available across multiple online retailers, compared to others you’ll find in this review, it’s currently offered at Ulta Beauty for $25. It does require a few swipes, so just keep that in mind.
Shade tested: “Intemporelle”
Pros:
- Beautiful pigment and finish
- “The Goldilocks of nude lipsticks”
Cons:
- The price may be too expensive for some
Nothing felt more luxurious to me than applying a Chanel lipstick. Fun fact: I’ve worn a Chanel lipstick to my high school prom, but once I ran out, didn’t repurchase (after all, it’s up there in price compared to the average tube).
However, the “Intemporelle” shade is the Goldilocks of nude lipsticks: not too brown, not too pink, it’s *just right*. It has a beautiful finish that may justify the cost for some. My advice? Try it, especially if you’re on the hunt for a new lipstick and want a trusty, quality option for everyday wear.
Shade tested: “Fairest Nude”
Pros:
- Complementary to fair skin
- Dupe for some designer nude lipsticks
Cons:
- Not as hydrating as some others tested
The L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick is a dupe for Chanel’s Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Colour if you don’t want to spend $45. It’s packaging is pretty secure, given its less-than-$15 price point, and the color is pleasing and complementary to fair skin, especially.
Though it’s not as hydrating as some others tested, that’s not a X-out for me. Simply apply a lip primer (I love the Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Primer) and top it off with a lip gloss if you’d like. After all, how can you pass up a lipstick that looks this flattering on fair skin?
Shade tested: “Ella”
Pros:
- Buildable pigment that’s great for those who love a more natural look
- Doubles as a cheek tint!
Cons:
- Doesn’t last as long as some others tested
The Laura Mercier Petal Soft Lipstick Crayon is the most unique of all nude lipsticks I tested, simply because it resembles my nieces’ coloring tools more so than what’s in my makeup bag. All jokes aside, it’s a pink-berry-nude shade that I’d think flatters darker skin tones as well.
It isn’t the most long-lasting, but I do reach for it from time to time, given how effortless it is to apply. Oh, and if you’re into the whole multi-purpose thing, you’ll appreciate that you can dab it onto the apples of your cheeks for a makeshift cream blush.
Shade tested: “Mademoiselle”
Pros:
- Beautiful pigmentation and finish
Cons:
- The price may be too expensive for some
Another Chanel shade for the books! Some may say this is not a nude lipstick, but listen — nude lipsticks come in a multitude of different shades and finishes. This none is a deeper-toned nude, for sure, and has a long-lasting application that you’ll want to wear.
Though I find this to complement my skin tone well, I’d classify this pick as an evening-time lipstick. You can get away with it during the day, but there are other nude lipsticks from this list I would gravitate toward first. However, it does have a rich pigment and a gorgeous finish, so the price is justified (at least on my end).
Best Nude Lipsticks for Dark Skin Tones, per Experts
Ahead, our team of makeup experts share their top nude lipstick shades for dark skin tones, as this review is more so based on fair skin. Not to mention, these work wonderfully should you want a more defined “pop,” regardless of skin tone.
CTZN Cosmetics Nudiversal Lip Duo
CTZN Cosmetics, otherwise known as the cosmetics line kickstarted by Beyoncé’s makeup artist, has its Nudiversal Lip Duo that’s recommended by both Dresher and Autumne West, Nordstrom national beauty director.
“This product comes in more than 20 nude shades, so there is a nude for every skin tone!” West tells The Post. Her favorite? The “London” shade.
MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lipstick
Dresher recommends the MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lipstick in “Impulsive” as a warm-toned nude for deeper complexions.
NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick
West adores the NARS Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick in the shade “Breathless” for a versatile nude lipstick that offers dimensional shine. Not to mention, it’s said to offer eight-hour hydration.
ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr Lip Snatcher Lip Duo
The shade “Nightwalker” is what Dresher recommends as a “super beautiful rich brown tone” suited for darker skin.
Our Top Picks, at a Glance
An FAQ on Nude Lipsticks
Ahead, our makeup experts give us the 411 on what to look for in a nude lipstick and other tips and tricks up her sleeve.
What makes a nude lipstick “perfect”?
“If you like what you see in the mirror and you feel good in a nude lipstick shade, then it’s a perfect fit!” West told The Post. “I don’t believe in the idea of one lipstick shade for all — we should wear what makes us feel good and look our best.”
What to look for in a nude lipstick, according to a makeup artist
Look for a shade between a pink and a natural brown that almost matches your natural lip color as a starting point, per West. From there, you can play with textures and opaqueness depending how you want your final look.
“Lipstick should always be moisturizing and definitely not something that washes you out,” Dresher says. “A nude lipstick should be one to two tones darker than your skin complexion and match the undertones of your skin.”
If you are truly a warm undertone, using a cool toned lipstick can make you look washed out or costume-like, too.
How can one shop for a nude lipstick online?
Aside from combing through this review and seeing our swatches and first-hand testing photos, there are so many options when shopping online.
“Adding ‘nude lipstick’ to the search will help narrow the results,” West tips off. “I always recommend looking at the added images on the lipstick product page, as most lipsticks will show pictures of models with the shades on so you can see if it’s the nude you want for your skin tone.”
Dresher also recommends swatching the color on your inner wrist. “See if the color is visible and doesn’t blend into your complexion, while also making sure it doesn’t stand out too much,” she adds.
Should I opt for creamy or matte lipstick?
“A matte lipstick will have no gloss or reflection, and can be quite drying,” Dresher explains. “A creamy lipstick will have a satin or glossy finish.”
As for Dresher, glossy finishes are her personal favorite, so she always pair a clear gloss with her favorite lipstick no matter if it’s matte or creamy.
Should I apply lip liner before my nude lipstick?
“I recommend a nude lipstick and lip liner as it offers longevity, and a liner is key to help define your lip shape,” West says. “You can use a nude liner to fill in and then layer with a clear gloss. Lip gloss layering is a personal choice, and I generally recommend a pairing at best, like a lipstick + gloss, liner + lipstick or a liner + gloss.”
Applying a really dark lip liner around a nude lipstick, and then feathering it in is Dresher’s absolute favorite trick to make even the lightest nudes work for any skin complexion, too.
“Some of my favorite lip liners to achieve this with are ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starr’s Lip Snatcher Waterproof Precision Lip Liner ($14) in ‘Rent Is Due,’ which is a soft brown, and ‘Coin Collector’ as a dark brown color from the brand,” she suggests. “MAKE UP FOR EVER’s ‘Endless Cocoa’ ($22) is a true greige (gray and beige blend) that is the perfect shade for a lip contour.”
She also recommends MAC Cosmetics’ “Stripdown” and “Cork” and “Oak” ($17) as great lip contours for deeper complexions. MAC Cosmetics’ “Spice” looks great on warmer medium-dark skin tones as well, per Dresher.
As for gloss on top of a nude lip, the MAC Cosmetics clear gloss is Dresher’s favorite to add after any lipstick because it sits on top of the lips and fills in any lip lines, while not impacting the color of the lips. Tarte’s Maracuja Juicy Lip Plumps ($24) are also great because it already has gloss built in.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.
ncG1vNJzZmimqaW8tMCNnKamZ5Gnwaqvy55mm52jqXqvwcOeZKWhoKjBqq%2FKrGSrnaaesrh7