Finding the perfect nude lip liner can be a challenge. But when you discover the right shade, it can enhance your natural beauty and define your lips to perfection.
Holding a coveted spot in every makeup-lover’s arsenal, nude liners subtly enhance the natural shape and colour of the lips, providing a polished and sophisticated look suitable for any occasion.
The quest to find the perfect nude lip liner can pose a challenge, however. Many mainstream shades labelled as ‘nude’ often cater to lighter skin tones – which isn’t exactly universal. But, the beauty industry is (at last) evolving, and there are now a myriad of options specifically formulated to flatter and accentuate deep skin tones. Below, we’ve curated a list of some of the best nude lip liners that harmonise beautifully with deep complexions, ensuring you’ll find your perfect match.
Check out our guides to nude lip liners for fair skin and medium-toned skin.
The best nude lip liners for dark skin
M.A.C Lip Pencil in ‘Chesnut’
We say: A classic favorite, M.A.C’s Chestnut is a muted brown with slight red undertones. It’s perfect for deep skin tones, offering a natural yet defined look.
$37 at M.A.C Cosmetics
Huda Beauty Lip Contour 2.0 in ‘Warm Brown’
We say: This rich, warm shade is ideal for adding depth to the lips. The revised Lip Contour formula ensures a smooth, long-lasting application.
$30 at Adore Beauty
Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lip Liner in ‘705 Cappuccino’
We say: This gorgeous coffee coloured liner is an absolute staple. The transfer-resistant Lasting Finish formula also ensures all-day definition.
You say: “I use this product on a daily basis and the shade ‘790 Brownie Pie’ works like a dream with my complexion. The lip liner is creamy and reasonably long wearing. It’s very versatile as most lip liners are and can be worn alone or used with other products.” – kellyrox
$12.95 at Chemist Warehouse
Want to know more? Read more Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lip Liner reviews…
NYX Suede Matte Lip Liner in ‘Club Hopper’
We say: An affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality. ‘Club Hopper’ is a deep brown that is perfect for adding definition to deep complexions.
You say: “I love the NYX lip liners and I’ve used them for years [so] I never buy high-end lip liners. I think it is a waste of money when I can always rely on [the] drugstore. The NYX lip liners are of great quality and the colors are marvelous.” – Omyara
$10.79 at Amazon
Want to know more? Read more NYX Suede Matte Lip Liner reviews…
MECCA MAX Pout Pencil Lip Liner in ‘Stellar’
We say: This high-impact, slightly cool-toned brown is the perfect base colour for a nude lip look. The creamy matte formula is a long-lasting staple.
$16 at MECCA
Main image credit: @jodiesmith
Are you a lip liner fan? What’s your go-to shade?
Used to be, now I’m using mainly gloss.
Deeper coloured skin is not mine but I do like quite a few of these.
No I am fair skinned but use a liner and love them
Not wearing lip liners a while already. Reminder to pull one out.
I don’t like the liner on the model as I think a pink would look sassier.
I don’t have dark skin but I’m sure all these brands have shades appropriate for most skin tones. I also don’t use lip liner but I should try as I probably have a couple at home.
I have a nude shade lipliner.
I have a couple of favourite lip liners which I sometimes wear all over my lips instead of lipstick with a bit of gloss.
I’m loving all of these colours
some awesome brands and tones
I’ve just gone back to using a lip liner because my lips seem to be shrinking.
Never got into lip liners.
I don’t use this product now
These all look like great shades
The Huda beauty one looks good, might have to break my own rule about celebrity make up lines & try it
My go to colours are pinkish/purple lip liners more natural lip colour for me
I don’t really do nude lips
With my fair colouring, nude lippies look like concealer. The closest I’d go to nude would be these deeper shades.
so pretty
I’m not a fan of nude lips.
I am intend to buy one. Thanks for suggestions.
I usually just use nude lipliner
I like the colours but lip liner can look a bit odd when the lippie wears off.
Love finding the perfect nude shade
This is interesting to see. Sometimes people with particularly dark skin tones get forgotten.
I like nude colours.
I don’t use a pencil liner