Remember the good ol’ times when pink lipstick shades were limited to just two variations—hot pink lipstick and baby pink lipstick? Well, that’s surely not the case anymore. Today there’s a myriad of pinks available in the market, which makes shopping for that perfect ‘pink’ lippy that much easier. Right? Not really! Especially when you choose a pretty pink shade (from the millions out there), only to end up looking washed out completely, and you thought choosing a red lipstick was tough. Sigh.
Well, the good news is that there is a shade of pink lipstick for every skin tone, and who wouldn’t want one, considering pink is such a cheery hue?
If you don’t know where to start, here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing the right pink lipstick shade just for your skin tone; plus, a low-down on all the pink shades available in the market. Happy shopping!
Finding the Right Pink Lipstick Shades
1. Pink Lipsticks For Fair & Light Skin Tone
If you are fair complexioned and have a very light skin tone, chances are that you have cool or pink undertones (PS: Check if you have blue veins). That’s why you should opt for true pinks such as candy pinks and hot pinks that will brighten up your skin tone and make your eyes pop. Aiming for a subtle natural look? Go for light pink lipsticks that offer the perfect flush of colour to your lips.
In case you have warm undertones (PS: Green veins are indicative of yellow undertones), then stick to warmer pinks to avoid looking jaded.
Nykaa Recommends:
2. Pink Lipsticks For Medium & Olive Skin Tone
Ladies rejoice! Because Olive and tan complexions can carry off any colour under the sun. In fact, you don’t even have to bother about your skin undertones! Having said that, dark pink lipstick shades and rich mauves look amazing on this skin tone. You can also opt for berry or luscious watermelon shades for a fresh-faced look. If you love a coffee tinge in your pinks, then choose caramel pinks and nudish pinks that make for an elegant day look. The only rule: just stay away from pink lippies with blue undertones, which tend to wash you out. Easy enough?
Nykaa Recommends:
3. Pink Lipsticks For Dark & Dusky Skin Tone
It’s hardly a surprise that dusky skin tones and radiant colours are a match made in heaven; ‘bold’ is the buzzword when choosing a pink lipstick for deeper skin tones. Think statement shades such as fuchsia that will make heads turn; headed to a black-tie event? Then, choose a dark pink lipstick with magenta and plum undertones for a truly ‘wow’ effect. Remember less is more, so don’t be afraid to experiment with jewel-toned pink hues.
Nykaa Recommends:
To sum it all up:
TO PICK THE PERFECT PINK LIPSTICK SHADES FOR FAIR SKIN TONES:
- Make heavily pigmented lipsticks your best friend.
- If you have a light complexion with cooler undertones, choose bubble pinks to brighten up your skin tone.
- If you have a light complexion with warmer undertones, opt for coral pinks.
-
TO PICK THE PERFECT PINK LIPSTICK SHADES FOR MEDIUM & OLIVE SKIN TONES:
- You can never go wrong with any pink hue—be it a light pink lipstick or darker hues.
- Opt for rich mauves, berry or luscious watermelon shades for a fresh-faced look.
- If you are in the market for natural pink lipstick shades, then choose caramel pinks and nudish pinks.
- Stay away from baby pink lipstick shades that tend to wash you out.
-
TO PICK THE PERFECT PINK LIPSTICK SHADES FOR DARK & DUSKY SKIN TONES:
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold jewel-toned pinks.
- Statement shades such as fuchsia will make heads turn.
- Pinks with Magenta and plum undertones are tailor-made for this complexion.
Here’s a lowdown on all the different pink lipstick shades that will give you a selfie-ready pout.
Types of Pink Lipstick Shades
1. Dusty Rose
I mean how can you not be obsessed? From lazy Sunday brunches to fun sundowner parties, this vintage hue is tailor-made for every complexion out there. Just don’t forget to pair the look with brown smokey eyes when you are headed to a weekend rager.
Nykaa Recommends:
2. Berry Pink
Gorgeous berry pink hues are the best way to pull off the just-bitten trend. Apply this pink lipstick shade with your fingers to smudge over the colour to create a subtle lip stain; alternatively, you can also layer this with a neutral hue to make it more office-friendly. Don’t forget the highlighter, which will offset the look beautifully.
Nykaa Recommends:
3. Bright Fuchsia
Fuchsia pinks pack some serious punch and are great for days when you are feeling particularly blue. Find this pink lipstick shade a tad too intimidating for your own good. Wear it with a dewy complexion and winged eyeliner to get popping without looking OTT. The good news is that you don’t need much else to complete the look.
Nykaa Recommends:
4. Coral Pink
Why choose corals? Because it’s fresh, fun and chirpy. However, if going too orange ain’t your thing, you can choose ones with peachy undertones that are just right for the cocktail hour. If the vibrancy of this pink lipstick shade puts you off, try opting for a sheer lip stain to strike the perfect balance between naughty and nice. One of the best light pink lipstick shades to add to your closet!
Nykaa Recommends:
5. Magenta/Mauve Pink
Mauve lippies are for girls who love a bit of drama. The rich lavender undertones look fabulous on olive complexions and are perfect for those elegant black-tie events. Remember to keep the overall look minimal to make your pout stand out. What’s not to love?
Nykaa Recommends:
6. Nude Pink
Who doesn’t love an everyday nude pink lipstick that matches their lips like a glove? They go with any and every makeup look whether it’s a no-makeup makeup look or a full-glam smokey eye makeup. Every makeup enthusiast knows that a good lipstick collection must have one or two nude pink shades that can become your go-to. The best part is that today’s growing indie makeup brands bring us an array of pink nude lipsticks for every skin tone.
Nykaa Recommends:
7. Red-Pink
As regal and striking as red lipstick is, it can be a bold and intimidating shade for some of us. However, it doesn’t need to deter us from rocking a bold, lush lip that’s colourful and punchy. Instead of reds, try your hand at red pinks. These pink lipsticks have just the right amount of red undertones yet won’t look too stark. It will give your lips a soft medley of pink and red that can be worn for cocktail parties, wedding shenanigans, and hey if you’re feeling bold, to your workplace, too.
8. pH Pink
pH or colour-changing makeup lipstick and blushes are all the rage currently. It’s the easiest way to rock a pink-stained lip without putting in much effort. pH lip products are also great if you’re not much of a lipstick wearer. The best part? A single pH lipstick or lip gloss can be worn on any skin tone and the formula will change to a stunning, soft pink hue that matches your skin’s undertones.
Nykaa Recommends:
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is pink lipstick good for dark skin?
Yes, pink lipsticks do look good on dark skin tones. It’s all about choosing the right pink shade that fits perfectly with your complexion. Go for deep mauve-pinks, berry tones, and pinks with brown or red undertones. Our top picks are Faces Canada Comfy Matte Creme Lipstick - Sip Of Wine and FAE Beauty Lip Whip 12H Matte Liquid Lipstick - Screw
- How to choose a pink lipstick?
Before buying a pink lipstick, you must keep your skin tone and undertone in mind. Choosing the wrong shade of lipstick will wash you out, which could look unflattering. If you want a one and done shade, go for lipsticks that suit your complexion perfectly. If you want to mimic fuller, pink lips, top your pink lipstick with a nude lip gloss on the centre of the lips.
- How do I match my lipstick colour?
The best way to choose a pink lipstick is to match it with your skin tone. It’s the most fool-proof way to look flattering and give your makeup look a seamless finish. However, if you want to match your pink lipstick with your outfit, choose a pink or nude pink lipstick that goes with every outfit to eliminate the guesswork.
