The 16 Best Nude Lipsticks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

While a vibrant red lipstick will always turn heads, a classic nude lipstick will never go out of style. Think of it as the quiet luxury of makeup. “The versatility of nude lipstick is what I love as it complements various makeup looks,” says Sheika Daley, Lancôme global makeup artist. 

You might think a nude lip is boring, but it’s anything but. The specific undertones, finishes, and texture of these lip shades can easily elevate or differentiate a nude makeup look. “Nude lips can look natural on a natural makeup day but also play well with a smoky eye or full glam makeup look,” says celebrity makeup artist Nikki DeRoest. “Everyone needs to have one to two go-to nudes in their makeup wardrobe. When in doubt, wear a nude lip.” 

To narrow down this list, we tested 20 nude lipsticks in the Lab. We spent one full eight-hour day testing nude lippies on 10 editors of various skin tones. We considered comfort, pigment, transfer resistance, and wear, rating them on each attribute to compile our best-in-show choices.

Our Top Picks

What We Love: It’s very comfortable to wear and would be a great every day lipstick choice. 

What We Don't Love: The color ended up being slightly more orange than it looked initially on medium skin tones.

We tested out the color Sierra on a medium skin tone that usually has the ability to go with both warmer and cooler colors. The lipstick itself was smooth and easily applied, and we fell in love with the luxe packaging. 

However, we had to use two to three applications to get the full nude color onto our lips, but the consistency of the product still remained comfortable without feeling tacky or sticky, even after waiting for 30 minutes. This lipstick kept our lips hydrated and remained comfortable to wear over time. While the pigment of the lipstick was a true nude, the undertones skewed a bit more orange rather than pink. And they become more apparent as you add more coats of lipstick. So we think this would have been a great nude lipstick for someone with fairer skin.  

Just Trust Us: Add two or three coats to see the true color of the lipstick and once you’re you won’t have to worry too much about reapplying as this stayed put for us.   

Key Ingredients: Duo seed oil, a blend of waxes｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Standard

What We Love: This lipstick is so plush and soft which helps stave away dryness. 

What We Don't Love: It transfers easily.

On a light skin tone that typically looks best in cooler shades, Flesh 03 appeared more like a beautiful brown shade than a traditional nude. While the pigment is rather robust and deep, the Pat McGrath lipstick was very buildable. We only needed two coats to get the desired effect. We loved that the pointed tip of the lipstick bullet lined our lips seamlessly. 

However, while the product has a creamy, almost whipped texture that didn’t settle into the crevices of our lips even after drying, this product did transfer quite a bit. Yet, while this lipstick seemed to smear most while eating or coming into contact with any surface, the color on our lips kept its integrity and we didn’t need to reapply more. 

Just Trust Us: “I like to hold the lipstick tube up next to my lips and see what seems to go the best with my natural lip color,” says DeRoest. 

Key Ingredients: N/A ｜Waterproof: No｜Size: 4 grams

What We Love: The color, it’s a delightful 1990s nude. After all, it was inspired by Victoria Beckham.

What We Don't Love: It would be nice if it had more hydrating properties. 

A pillow-soft taupe nude, this creamy lipstick shade was tested on fair skin that typically looks best in cooler-tones or shades that skew to the more neutral side. We like that despite its creamy texture, the lipstick isn’t sticky and applies with a smooth feel yet it does have a slight tacky feel once on but nothing that would be highly annoying to wear. 

The shade itself looks slightly closer to a light brown while still maintaining a true nude essence, and is a rich buildable shade. With a matte finish that is almost powder soft, we liked that this product didn’t settle into any crevices or creases on our lips. We were surprised that this nude didn’t transfer when we touched our lips and there was no smudging at all when we were eating or drinking and only some minor transferring. Yet, it easily came off with one swipe of a makeup wipe. 

Just Trust Us: Because of its matte finish, swipe some lip balm on before applying to lock in moisture.

Key Ingredients: N/A ｜Waterproof: No｜Size: 3.5 grams

What We Love: The color looks and feels so luxurious, and the pigment instantly “wakes” up your face.

What We Don't Love: Because this is a matte formula, those with extra dry lips might not find it hydrating enough.

For anyone who wants to invest in a rich, long-wear nude lipstick we unanimously approve this pick. With a matte finish, this nude looks and feels luxurious from its sleek yet simple packaging to its velvety texture. If you have very dry lips, you might not find a matte formula like this one hydrating enough, but even for a matte formula, this option doesn’t cake. In fact, it dries down without settling into any crevices or flaking. Its vibrant pigment is something that can work for a daytime or night time makeup look. We love a lasting lipstick and this one doesn’t budge, staying true to its no-transfer claims. Truly, this lipstick would survive the apocalypse. 

Just Trust Us: When shopping for a nude lip DeRoest says, “I usually start with the finish and then will find my shade once I am happy with the texture, opacity, and the way that it appears on the lips.” 

Key Ingredients: Not listed ｜Waterproof: N/A｜Size: 3.2 grams

What We Love: It’s a good matte lipstick that is also comfortable and lightweight to wear which is a rare find. 

What We Don't Love: Those with dry lips might find the lipstick less hydrating that others on our list.

While we were testing this out, the color remained intense and our lips were pretty hydrated during the duration of wear. A huge plus was that even after a series of tests to see if the color would transfer, this matte didn’t budge. It was, however, easy to remove with a makeup wipe and didn’t smear as we were wiping it off. 

This matte lipstick didn’t sink into the lines on our lips so it always looked fresh unlike other matte lipsticks which can be drying. However, we should note that those with very dry lips might find it not as hydrating as others on our lists. Still, the inclusion of castor seed oil adds light hydration.  We would recommend this to anyone who has been burned by  matte lipsticks in the past but wants to give them another try. 

Just Trust Us: “I think the finish of the lip is up to your own preference—I like playing around with different textures and finishes. I think a matte lipstick with a matching gloss to seal in the look is always super flattering,” says Naseeha Khan, makeup artist and cofounder of CTZN Cosmetics. 

Key Ingredients: Organic castor seed oil｜Waterproof: N/A｜Size: 4 grams

What We Love: The hydrating and creamy formula feels amazing. It applied so smoothly and easily. 

What We Don't Love: Because of the ultra-hydrating formula, some may need to reapply frequently.

This lipstick glides on so smoothly for a second we thought it was a lip balm. For that we would highly recommend this to anyone who usually deals with dry lips. It was so comfortable to wear, hydrating, and looked great after applying since it didn’t settle into any creases on our lips. Because it is so hydrating, it doesn’t have the most intense staying power, so you might need to reapply after more robust eating and drinking. 

It doesn’t have a matte or gloss finish, but more like a subtle, moisturized satin sheen. The deep pigment, which has a strong color payoff, remained on during a short duration of eating and drinking and was easily removed with micellar water. The color itself was rich and full bodied, we didn’t need more than two coats to achieve our desired pigment intensity.

Just Trust Us: While this lipstick stayed put over a short period of time, we recommend keeping it on hand for touch ups if you’re eating and drinking over a longer period. 

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Not listed

What We Love: It feels so natural to wear. 

What We Don't Love: We wish it came with a lip liner.

This nude lipstick felt comfortable like a lip balm and was very moisturizing but ultimately dried down to a matte finish. The buttery smooth texture made it comfortable to wear all day. 

However, for a smooth matte lipstick the color pigment skewed on the opaque side and we wouldn’t consider this lipstick super buildable. It took a few swipes to make sure it was fully applied and right up to our lip line. We had to be careful so as to avoid any patchiness to our final look. 

Just Trust Us: Having used this product, we think you’d benefit from using the corresponding lip liner to have a nice precise clean edge. 

Key Ingredients: Not listed｜Waterproof: No｜Size: 3.5 grams

What We Love: The hydrating and buttery texture of this product as well as its long-wear benefits. 

What We Don't Love: We wouldn't change much. The packaging and product are well made. 

When applying this lipstick we liked that it felt controllable while also having a creamy, hydrating texture for comfortable long-wear. It didn’t settle into any crevices on our lips, but we noticed that it remained a little more pigmented around our lip line which ended up feeling like a built-in liner, an unexpected plus. 

While testing, the product did transfer a little, but it didn’t smudge on our lips and we didn’t have to reapply any product after. With this in mind, we would say that this lipstick is relatively water-resistant as the color remained on our lips. 

Just Trust Us: To get a little more pigment so that this shade might work as a statement nude, choose a hue that’s slightly darker than what your natural nude color would be.  

Key Ingredients: Squalane, papain enzyme, Vitamin C｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Not listed

What We Love: We love that this product is the best of both worlds. We’d recommend this product for anyone looking for a highly pigmented, vivid color shade, but can't decide whether they want to go matte or glossy. 

What We Don't Love: There was quite a bit of color transfer.

A first on our list, this pick is a matte lipstick and gloss duo. The texture of the lipstick was very creamy and glided on very smoothly giving us a hydrated but not tacky feel. On its own the lipstick felt lightweight almost as if we didn’t have anything on, and we didn’t overly feel the need to apply the gloss. It’s a very pigmented, rich color that only needed one or two swipes to get the desired color intensity. 

When testing the lipstick did transfer to a variety of products, but although that happened we never needed to reapply because the color was so vibrant, a great color payoff. It’s also great to know that we have the option to go matte or glossy without having to carry around two different products. 

Just Trust Us: This lipstick does transfer so keep a Q-tip on hand for any necessary touch-ups. 

Key Ingredients: Wild mango butter｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Not listed

What We Love: It settles well onto the lips and maintains its pigment.  

What We Don't Love: It felt a bit thick to apply.

This product felt thick to apply but it ended up settling nicely into a satin/matte finish. After a few minutes it became comfortable to wear. When it came down to pigment this color was intense. 

While testing, the color remained on and vibrant during eating and talking. We didn’t need any reapplication. However, upon initially applying, the lipstick did smear easily but once settled it stayed with little to no smudging or transfer.

Just Trust Us: With a thick initial texture and strong pigment you wouldn’t need more than one coat to get your desired look. 

Key Ingredients: Pomegranate｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Not listed

What We Love: The color was lovely, and it had a nice shine and fantastic feel. 

What We Don't Love: This doesn't last very long, so we would need to reapply often.

This applied beautifully, smoothly and with even color. Upon drying, It did not settle into any creases and maintained a smooth, buttery feel. It was also very easy to remove with simply dry tissue. 

While this lipstick was very emollient, it didn’t get sticky or tacky. As for pigment, this pick was rather light in consistency and went on more opaque than sheer. However, with a few more swipes it became easy to build up the pigment. When tested, the product did transfer immediately and we needed to reapply after each test since it came off after blotting, drinking, and eating. 

Just Trust Us: Prep lips with a balm for a smooth base.

Key Ingredients: Not listed｜Waterproof: No｜Size: Not listed

What We Love: The moisturizing, comfortable feel. It felt similar to a lip balm, which is really nice, especially at this time of year, when my lips tend to be dry.

What We Don't Love: The product transferred easily.

In the past, if we wanted sheer coverage we’d normally opt for a lip gloss, but this lipstick has us thinking twice. It isn’t sticky or tacky like some glosses and has a better staying power than a gloss normally would. It wears comfortably and feels moisturizing. 

We’d recommend this to anyone who wants a casual lipstick look or is feeling for a pop of color if the rest of their makeup look is on the subtle side. While this lipstick did transfer easily, it was also just as easy to reapply and doesn’t look noticeable as its fading. As for pigment, this lipstick appears rich in the tube but is actually more sheer on our lips. However, it’s very buildable. 

Just Trust Us: Add two or three coats of this to really get the most of its pigment. 

Key Ingredients: Pomegranate｜Waterproof: No｜Size: 2.8 grams

What We Love: The color and finish are exquisite. 

What We Don't Love: It was slightly dry.

We think this pick is great for anyone looking for a matte velvet lipstick that is flattering for both occasions and everyday. While applying, this product felt a little thick and dry at first but also slightly creamy. The bullet dragged our lips so we felt like we had to go over several times with the product to achieve an even coverage. But once the product was on, it was comfortable to wear. 

The pigment of this lipstick is on the opaque side but settled into a nice shade of nude with warm rose undertones. The lipstick sat on our lips nicely but was a clear matte look versus a natural looking nude. 

Just Trust Us: If your product tends to feel dry, make sure to apply a balm before to lock in moisture. 

Key Ingredients: Not listed | Waterproof: No｜Size: N/A

What We Love: The color was very flattering and the texture made our lips feel moisturized and soft. 

What We Don't Love: It might need to be reapplied after a while.  

We love this pick for anyone looking for a buildable lipstick that also is packed with moisture. With shades that are great for darker skin tones, this lipstick has a creamy texture without appearing shiny and dried to a semi-matte, satin-like finish. Once applied, the product didn’t settle into any fine lines on our lips. While the pigment faded when eating and drinking it didn’t transfer as much as other products we’ve tried out. 

This lipstick was easy to remove with just a makeup wipe. While we did see some fading, the product is definitely buildable and can be made richer with a few applications. 

Just Trust Us: After applying, let this shade settle or dry down for a little bit to prevent it from transferring too much. 

Key Ingredients: Castor oil | Waterproof: No｜Size: 0.13 oz

What We Love: It was easy to apply and the soft creamy texture dried down quickly.

What We Don't Love: The formula was slightly dry. 

We think this product would be great for anyone who doesn’t mind a drier, matte formula. The pigment was rich and full-bodied, delivering a substantial color payoff in one swipe and didn’t need to be built upon. Although the formula dries, the product itself went on smoothly and didn't drag our skin. It felt lightweight and creamy without being sticky. 

We didn’t notice any obvious smudging and the product barely transferred when tested, so there was no need to reapply. We would say that while this pick doesn’t seem waterproof it definitely is more on the water resistant side. 

Just Trust Us: If you already have dry lips but still love a matte color make sure to hydrate and moisturize your lips before wearing this pick. 

Key Ingredients: Gotu Kola extract, orchid extract｜Waterproof: No｜Size: 4 grams

What We Love: The balm consistency and it was rich in color upon initial application

What We Don't Love: The pigment didn’t have as much longwear as we’d like.

Although this is a lipstick we would recommend it as a balm. It works well for anyone looking for high-end color but is definitely more on the casualwear side versus long-wear. 

When applying, the product felt thicker in consistency and needed a little more pressure to slide on, but it felt hydrating and there was no stickiness during the application process. The pigment was definitely a true nude, and the shade was rich. However, the color ended up fading quite quickly after transfer testing. Although it transferred easily, we think the pigment is buildable and tends to look glossier with each layer.

Just Trust Us: Make sure to layer this product on if you’re a fan of a high shine look. 

Key Ingredients: Candelilla wax, rosehip oil, Pomegranate Jojoba Complex | Waterproof: N/A｜Size: 2 grams

What to Keep In Mind

• Shade and Pigment: The trickiest part about a nude lipstick is narrowing down the one that is right for you based on your skin tone, undertones as well as texture and finish preferences. But trust us, it’s not impossible. It just takes time. When it comes to finding a shade with undertones that complement your skin, Daley recommends avoiding those that “wash you out or clash with your complexion.” For Khan, the perfect nude should enhance your natural lip color. “I always try to find a shade that is close to my lip color, this way it enhances your natural beauty,” she says. “If you have a lighter skin tone, avoid shades that are too light in comparison to your natural lip because this can leave you looking washed out. Those with medium skin tones should look for shades with hints of caramel or pink. Deeper skin tones can look for richer browns, taupe plums, or deep terracottas.”  DeRoest recommends playing with undertones that correspond to your makeup to make a match. “For example, if you are wearing a warm, coral blush you might want to go with a nude that has more of a peach undertone,” she says. 
• Finish: When considering what finish is best for you, much of that boils down to personal preference and the specific look you’re going for. However, if you’re looking for the most natural finish Daley supports going for a creamy finish as they “often looks best for a nude lip, adding hydration and a soft sheen, to mimic the natural texture of the lips.” While some might think that a nude lipstick finish is arbitrary, Daley says, “Finish is crucial; it affects overall appearance and comfort.” In fact, the finish is actually where DeRoest starts when searching for a nude lip color. “I usually start with the finish and then will find my shade once I am happy with the texture, opacity, and the way that it appears on the lips,” she explains. 
• Longevity: It’s clear that the brighter a lip color is the more obvious it will be if or when it begins to fade. When it comes to nude lipsticks the fade will likely be more subtle because the pigment is less intense. However, Khan notes, “It definitely depends on the quality of lipstick you are using and the application. The staying power of a lipstick depends more on the formulation than the color.” 

Your Questions, Answered

Are nude lipsticks universally flattering?

The experts agree that yes, nude lipsticks can be universally flattering but for different reasons. For DeRoest, a flattering nude is one that is “an enhanced version of your natural lip tone” while Daley notes that nude lipsticks can be flattering as long as you “find the right shade and undertone for your skin tone.”

Should nude lipsticks be lighter or darker than your skin tone?

“I think it truly depends on your skin tone. Generally for someone with fair skin, it's going to look better to have a nude that is slightly darker than your skin tone so that you look more awake, but for more melanated skin tones, a lighter nude looks amazing,” says DeRoest. “So, it just depends. The fun thing about makeup and lipstick is that it's easy to try on and take off, so I always recommend shopping for lipsticks in-store.” 

How do I make my nude lipstick not look boring?

“Experiment with different lip liner shades, glosses, or adding a touch of shimmer to the center of the lips to add dimension and interest to your nude lip look,” says Daley. Khan adds, “I think a lip liner and gloss can always dress up a nude lip. I like to play with a darker liner that can accentuate the lips, a neutral lipstick, and topping it off with a high-shine gloss.” 

Why Shop With Us

Jamie Wilson is a New York–based beauty writer and editor with years of experience at some of the most prestigious websites and magazines out there, covering trend stories, celebrity interviews, and cover stories. She can usually be found testing out new beauty products, especially lipstick from her Brooklyn apartment. For this article, she consulted three experts:

• Nikki DeRoest, is a celebrity makeup artist
• Sheika Daley, is a Lancôme global makeup artist
• Naseeha Khan, is a makeup artist and cofounder of CTZN Cosmetics

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