How to Choose the Perfect Lip Pencil or Lipstick Shade: Skin Tone, Hair Color, and Undertone

Choosing the right lip color is not just about preference. For a harmonious makeup look, it’s essential to consider your skin tone, hair color, eye color, and undertone. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the perfect shade and avoid common mistakes.

Warm or cool undertone: how to tell

• Cool undertone — skin with pink, blue, or porcelain tone; blue veins; silver jewelry suits you.

• Warm undertone — golden or peach skin tone; greenish veins; gold jewelry looks better.

• Neutral undertone — both silver and gold look good; skin tans easily and may shift tone with seasons.

If you're blonde

• Cool skin: pink, berry, raspberry, and cool nude shades.

• Warm skin: peach, coral, and warm beige tones.

• A soft pink-beige is a universal everyday choice.

If you're red-haired

• Best suited to warm tones like terracotta, brick, coral, or warm nude.

• Avoid cold pinks or fuchsia shades, which can clash with warm hair.

If you're brunette

• Cool skin: burgundy, plum, wine, deep pinks.

• Warm skin: coral-red, rose-brown, warm nude with orange tones.

• High-contrast brunettes can wear bold, saturated shades.

If you're brown-haired

• Pink, beige, berry, and terracotta tones work well.

• For daily makeup, choose a shade close to your natural lip pigment.

Universal tips

• Choose nude or pink-beige tones for everyday wear.

• Use red, wine, or plum for evening or festive makeup.

• Avoid colors that blend into your skin or appear too dark.

• Balance your look: dramatic eyes pair best with neutral lips, and vice versa.

Makeup artist advice

• Always test the shade on your wrist or directly on your lips.

• Apply and smudge the pencil slightly to see how it adapts to your skin.

• Mix products to create a more natural and unique color.

Final note

The perfect shade is not necessarily trendy or expensive. It’s the one that makes you feel confident and authentic. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to experiment.