The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Perfect Nude Lipstick for Brown Skin Tones
Let’s be real—finding the perfect nude lipstick as a Black or brown girl used to be a struggle. Either the shade was too ashy, too light, or just not giving what it was supposed to give. But times have changed, and brands are finally catching up! Whether you’re looking for the perfect everyday nude, a sultry brown, or a pinkish nude that won’t wash you out, I’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Find Your Nude Shade Based on Your Undertone
The key to a bomb nude lip is undertone. Not all nudes are created equal, and the right one for you depends on whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones.
• Warm Undertones (Golden, Yellow, or Red Hues in Your Skin)
• Best Nude Shades: Rich, warm browns, caramel tones, peachy nudes
• Try: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in Unveil, MAC Taupe, Juvia’s Place Muted
• Cool Undertones (Pink or Blue Hues in Your Skin)
• Best Nude Shades: Rosy nudes, mauves, cool-toned browns
• Try: Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in Seductress, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Intense, Pat McGrath Flesh 3
• Neutral Undertones (A Mix of Warm and Cool)
• Best Nude Shades: Neutral browns, pinky browns, beige tones
• Try: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Abu Dhabi, NARS Audacious Lipstick in Deborah, Mented Cosmetics Dope Taupe
Step 2: The Power of a Good Lip Liner
If you’ve ever tried a nude lipstick and felt like it was too light or flat, you probably skipped the lip liner. A brown lip liner is a Black girl’s best friend—it adds depth and makes any nude shade more wearable.
Must-have liners:
• NYX Espresso – Affordable and perfect for medium to deep skin tones
• MAC Chestnut – The OG brown liner that works on every brown girl
• Coloured Raine Naughty Brown – Creamy, pigmented, and blendable
Pro Tip: Blend your lip liner slightly into the center of your lips before applying lipstick for a seamless ombré effect.
Step 3: Choose the Right Finish for Your Look
• Matte Nudes: Long-lasting and chic, perfect for all-day wear.
• Glossy Nudes: Gives a fresh, youthful glow—ideal for everyday glam.
• Satin Nudes: A mix of matte and gloss for the best of both worlds.
For glossy lovers, try Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in Hot Chocolit or Morphe Lip Gloss in Boho for a sheer nude shine.
Final Thoughts
The perfect nude exists for everyone! The key is knowing your undertone, using a good lip liner, and choosing the right finish. Play around with different combos and find what makes you feel most confident. No more ashy nudes—just the perfect melanin-approved shades!
