If you’re a makeup lover and the last year and a half has been full of one too many no-makeup makeup days, you’re probably thrilled that makeup is booming again and there are more occasions to get dolled up for. But, you might be in need of a makeup bag refresh, which is why we’re going back to the basics and talking about a staple product that you’ll need to complete your makeup looks: the perfect nude lipstick. Keep reading to find out more about our best nude lipstick, and why finding the best one for you is just like finding that perfect little black dress.
The Best Nude Lipstick For You
If lipstick has made its way out of your daily makeup routine due to protective mask wearing, let us remind you why nude lipstick is a staple that you should reintroduce into your routine. First, nude lipstick is classic. Just like the little black dress that you’ve worn time and time again, the love for it exists because it’s timeless, comfortable, flattering, and you can always rely on it to elevate your look with little effort. Makeup trends like neon eyeshadow and rainbow eyebrows will come and go, but nude lipstick will always be in style.
Not only is nude lipstick a given for daily makeup looks, but a flattering nude shade is perfect for any occasion, including weddings. Given how timeless it is, if you sport a nude lipstick on your wedding day, you can be sure that when you look back at your photos years down the road, you won’t have regrets about the wedding makeup look you chose.
But just like the right LBD, nude lipstick isn’t one-size-fits all. A shade that flatters your skin tone and looks nude on you is not necessarily the same shade that works for your friends. Opting for a “your lips but better shade” not only takes the guesswork out of trying to match your lips to the rest of your makeup look, but it's the best approach to finding the perfect nude lipstick. The truth is, “nude” is different for everyone. For example, a light, pink-toned shade will look nude on fair skin tones, and a rich chocolate brown will appear nude on dark skin tones. Start with a shade that matches your natural lip color, and then explore options with the same undertones but varieties in depth.
Our Best Nude Lipstick Of 2021
With so many nude lipsticks on the market, it can be downright overwhelming to make the right selection. We’ll make it easy for you — the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Les Nus Intense Nude Lipstick is our best nude lipstick at the drugstore right now. With a range that boasts twelve nude shades in a variety of undertones and depth—there’s something for everyone. This smudge-proof, non-drying formula provides a satin finish and vivid color payoff in one swipe, while remaining lightweight and comfortable on the lips. Not only that, but the shape of the bullet is designed to ensure precise application with defined lip lines.
If you're looking to simplify your beauty routine, you can multitask your makeup to cut down on the amount of products necessary to complete your look. A nude lipstick is the perfect product to do this with. Because of the satin formula, the Les Nus lipsticks look beautiful when blended out on the cheeks and eyelids for a monochromatic makeup look. After applying the color to your lips, swipe a bit on your cheeks and eyelids, blend out with a fluffy makeup brush or sponge, and you’ll have a simple, one-and-done makeup look.
Editor’s Note: We also love the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Ultra Matte Highly Pigmented Nude Lipstick for an ultra-matte formula with a lightweight feel. If you prefer a shiny lip look, the classic L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipsticks in 18 Nude shades leave a shiny satin finish while hydrating the lips.
Photography: Matthew Kelly, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Creative Producer: Becca Solovay