Choosing the right lipstick shade is one of the most powerful ways to complete your makeup look. But if you have Indian skin, navigating the overwhelming number of lip shades can be confusing. Should you go for a pink? A brown? What about nude?
The challenge with lipstick for Indian skin tones
Indian skin tones are incredibly diverse — from very light to very deep. The undertone (warm, cool or neutral) also plays a huge role in which lipsticks will look flattering. A shade that looks amazing on your friend might not work for you, even if you have similar depth.
The key is understanding your skin's undertone and how different lip pigments interact with it.
Light Indian skin tones (Fair skin)
Undertone: Warm undertones often have golden or peachy hints. Cool undertones lean towards pink or rosy hints.
- For warm undertones: Coral-based pinks, warm nudes, brick reds, warm terracottas, golden peach tones
- For cool undertones: Berry shades, cool pinks, mauve nudes, plum reds, cool-toned browns
- Universal options: True reds (if you have good contrast), warm or cool browns depending on your undertone
Medium Indian skin tones
Medium skin often has rich, warm undertones but can also be neutral or cool.
- For warm undertones: Warm corals, warm pinks, brick reds, rust tones, warm browns, terracottas, burnt orange
- For cool undertones: Berries, mauve, plum shades, cool-toned reds, cool pinks
- Universal options: True reds, warm taupe shades
Deep Indian skin tones (Dusky skin)
Deeper skin tones can carry rich, bold shades beautifully. Your undertone still matters for the final look.
- For warm undertones: Warm reds, burnt oranges, warm burgundy, warm browns, terracotta, warm mauve
- For cool undertones: Deep berries, cool burgundy, plum shades, wine tones, cool-toned reds
- Universal options: Deep reds, rich browns, nude browns that complement your depth
The undertone test
Still unsure about your undertone? Look at the veins on your wrist:
- Green or greenish veins: Warm undertone (try warm lip shades)
- Blue or purple veins: Cool undertone (try cool lip shades)
- Both green and blue equally: Neutral undertone (you can wear both warm and cool shades)
Final tips for the perfect lip shade
- Always test a lipstick swatch on your jawline or inner arm before committing
- Check the shade in both natural light and the lighting where you'll be wearing it
- Consider your outfit's color and the event's lighting (flash photography needs bolder shades)
- Don't be afraid to mix shades or layer them for a custom colour
- Your lips have undertone too — warm lips suit warm shades, cool lips suit cool shades
Remember, makeup is about enhancing what you already have and feeling confident. Once you find your perfect shade, rock it!
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