How to Choose the Right Lipstick Color Online

Is it just us, or is buying the right lipstick color one of the hardest damn things to choose in person and online? Yeah, we thought so.

Here are clear, no fluff tips to help you finally choose lipstick shades that actually work for you. Your lipstick and your money do not want to live in your drawers. They want to be used and enjoyed.

For a complete breakdown of undertones, finishes, and age-related considerations, start with our lipstick shade selection guide .

Stop trying lipstick on your hand

The color of your lips is very different from the color of your hand. This alone can completely change how lipstick pigment appears. If you want to see the true shade, test lipstick on your lips, not your hand.

Stop applying lipstick in a way that changes the color

When you swipe back and forth three or four times, you can end up with a shade that looks much darker than intended. Try this instead:

• Divide your lips into four sections.
• Top lip: start at the center and glide outward to the corner, then repeat on the other side.
• Bottom lip: repeat the same steps.

This technique shows the natural, true color of your lipstick. If you want more pigment, repeat the steps slowly to build intensity.

Stop using old lipsticks

Yes, lipstick gets old. Most lip products are best used within about 12 to 24 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging (it might say 12M or 24M). If the smell changes, the texture feels off, or application looks uneven, it is time to toss it.

If you have rosacea, stop defaulting to red or peachy undertones

Rosacea prone skin often looks more balanced with lipstick shades that lean neutral or beige. Reds and peachy tones can sometimes make facial redness appear stronger.

Great neutral leaning options to start with include:

• Arabella Satin Lipstick
• Meadowsweet Satin Lipstick

You can explore additional neutral shades in our Satin Lipstick collection.

Quick lipstick undertone guide

If lipstick shades often look “off” on you, undertone is usually the reason.

• Warm undertones: Skin pulls golden or olive. Lipsticks with beige, caramel, or softly brown bases tend to look most natural.
• Cool undertones: Skin pulls pink or rosy. Lipsticks with mauve or blue leaning tones often flatter best.
• Neutral undertones: You sit in between. Balanced shades that are not too warm or too cool are usually easiest to wear.

If undertones feel confusing, our Custom Makeup Quiz can help narrow things down.

Frequently asked lipstick questions

Why does lipstick look different online than in person?
Lighting, screen settings, undertone, and natural lip pigment all affect how a shade appears. Product photos cannot account for individual coloring.

How can I soften a lipstick that is too dark?
Mix it with a lighter gloss or dab a small amount of foundation onto your lips before applying lipstick to mute intensity.

What lipstick colors are best for rosacea?
Neutral, beige leaning shades often balance facial redness better than bright reds or peach heavy tones.

Is satin lipstick better for mature lips?
Satin finishes tend to be more forgiving on texture compared to very matte formulas, which can emphasize dryness.

Bonus tips

• Buying lipstick online? Find an object close to the shade you chose, clothing, jewelry, fruit, anything. Hold it near your lips and face in natural light. Does your face brighten or look washed out? You will know quickly.
• If your lipstick feels too intense, soften it with a lighter gloss or by blotting once after application.
• Only buy from brands that offer free returns or refunds so you feel comfortable ordering online. P.S. we do. xoxo