Having an understanding of your natural lip color can be remarkably beneficial, whether customizing makeup looks, selecting lip products, or simply aiming to enhance your natural features. Knowing the inherent shade of your lips can help in shaping how makeup complements your overall complexion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying your natural lip tone:
Examine Your Lips
Begin by carefully examining your lips in natural light. Natural lighting is crucial as artificial lights can alter how colors appear. Use a hand mirror and stand near a window. Look for the most prominent color on your lips. For many, lips aren't just one flat color; they may have variations: lighter, darker, or having different hues on the upper and lower lips.
Consider Your Undertone
Understanding your skin’s undertone can help you discern your lip color more accurately. Skin undertones are usually categorized into three types: warm, cool, and neutral. If you have a warm undertone, your lips might lean towards peachy or orangey shades. Cool undertones may reflect pink or purplish hues in your lips, whereas neutral undertones might show a mix or balanced lip color.
Use a Lip Color Chart
Comparing your lip color to a lip color chart can be a practical approach to naming your lip hue. You can find various lip color charts online that range from light pinks to deep purples. Print out a chart or use one online and hold it up to your lips to see which colors match the closest.
Assess in Different Conditions
Check how your lip color looks under different circumstances, such as during the day and at night, or when you are experiencing cold or warm temperatures. Lips can change color based on blood circulation, so it is important to see how consistent the color is in different situations.
Consult With a Professional
If you are still uncertain, consider consulting a cosmetic professional or a dermatologist. They can provide professional guidance and pinpoint your lip tone, which can be especially helpful if you are selecting a color for an event or specific purpose.