Choosing the right lip tint for your undertone can make a significant difference. I used to do this all the time when I was just starting to explore makeup. What I didn’t realize at the time was that understanding my skin’s undertone could have saved me from a lot of confusion.

In this post, I’m not here to tell you which brand is the best. I want to share what I’ve learned through trial and error. I will also offer a few friendly tips. Please think of this as a casual conversation with a friend who’s been there too.

What Is an Undertone, and Why Does It Matter?

It’s important to get a sense of what an undertone actually is. I remember thinking my undertone was the same as my skin tone. But it turns out they’re not the same at all.

• Skin tone refers to the surface color of your skin. Which can change with sun exposure, skincare routines, or even seasonal shifts.
• Undertone is the subtle hue underneath the surface that remains constant.

There are three general categories:

1. Cool undertones (pink, red, or bluish tones)
2. Warm undertones (yellow, golden, or peach tones)
3. Neutral undertones (a balance between cool and warm tones)

For a long time, I had no idea which one I was. I thought all makeup looked a little off on me. Then, I started paying attention to how colors interacted with my undertone.

How to Find Your Undertone: Simple Observations

Over time, I picked up on a few signs that helped me better understand my undertone. Here are some practical ways you can try, too:

1. Vein Test: Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you may have a cool undertone. If they look greenish, you might be warm. If you can’t tell, you could be neutral.
2. Jewelry Preference: Do you think gold jewelry complements your skin more, or does silver look better? Gold tends to flatter warm undertones, while silver suits cool tones. If both work, chances are you’re neutral.
3. Clothing Colors: White versus off-white can be surprisingly telling. Bright white tends to flatter cool undertones, while creamy or ivory tones look better on warm undertones.
4. Sun Reaction: I’m not suggesting you test this on purpose. But you can think back to how your skin usually reacts to sun exposure. People with cool undertones often burn more easily, while those with warm undertones may tan faster.

These clues aren’t foolproof, but they can help you start noticing patterns. It’s really about what you feel good in.

Why Lip Tints Can Be Tricky

Lip tints are fun, versatile, and usually easy to apply. But that doesn’t mean every shade will work for everyone. I used to be drawn to bold, vibrant colors that looked amazing on friends. But made me look tired or out of sync.

The tricky thing is that lip tints interact with your natural lip color, skin tone, and undertone. That means the same shade can look completely different from one person to another. It’s not about finding the “perfect” color—it’s about finding what enhances your natural features.

Lip Tint Ideas Based on Undertones (No Rules, Just Observations)

These are not strict guidelines, but more of what I’ve noticed through observation and experience:

• Cool undertones often look balanced with colors like berry, mauve, rosy pink, and blue-based reds. I find these shades bring out a natural flush without overwhelming the face.
• Warm undertones tend to glow with coral, peach, brick, and orange-red tints. On me, a warm coral makes my skin look healthier and more awake.
• Neutral undertones have some flexibility. Rose, nude, dusty pink, or slightly warm reds can often work well. These shades seem to blend rather than contrast.

I’ve also noticed that choosing nail colors that complement your lip shade can really pull a look together. If you’re into that kind of detail, you might enjoy my 2025 summer nail trends.

Try Before You Decide

One thing I’ve learned is that it’s helpful to test tints in natural light. I’ve made a few regrettable choices under harsh store lighting, only to realize later the color wasn’t quite right.

If you can, swatch the tint on your wrist or lips and step near a window. It gives a more honest reflection of how the color will look throughout the day.

Also, applying a light layer first can help. Some shades felt too bright or heavy initially. They became favorites when I used a smaller amount or dabbed them with my fingertip.

A Personal Moment: Learning to Let Go of Perfection

I remember a time when I was obsessed with finding “the one” lip tint that would work for every occasion. I searched online, watched reviews, and even bought the same product in multiple shades hoping one would be just right.

But over time, I let go of the idea that makeup has to be perfect. Some days I feel great in a bold berry shade; other days, a sheer peach tint feels more like me. There’s something freeing about not needing every product to be flawless.

Now, I see my lip tints like tools in a box—each with its own mood and moment.

Tips for Choosing Your Next Lip Tint

Here are a few casual suggestions that have worked for me:

1. Start with what you love. If you love a certain color, try it—regardless of undertone guides. Your comfort matters more than any theory.
2. Mix and match. I sometimes blend two tints or add balm to soften a strong shade. It’s a good way to reuse a color that didn’t work on its own.
3. Observe your mood. I’ve noticed that some days I gravitate toward softer tones, and other days I want something more vibrant. That’s okay! Let your mood guide you.
4. Don’t rush. Just because something is trendy or hyped doesn’t mean you have to get it right now. Wait, test, and see what feels like “you.”

Closing Thoughts

Choosing the right lip tint for your undertone isn’t about following strict rules or impressing others. It’s about discovering what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and in tune with yourself.

Here is one piece of advice from my own journey: explore patiently. Trust your instincts. You might be surprised by what you find when you look beyond the labels and trends.

And if you ever end up with a tint that doesn’t feel quite right, don’t worry. Sometimes it just takes a little layering, blending, or a different day to make it work.

Thanks for spending a bit of your time here with me. I hope you found something helpful—or at least comforting to know that we’re all figuring it out as we go.

If you’re curious about the difference between body oil, lotion, and balm, this personal guide might be helpful.

Note: This post is based on personal experience and intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.