The best lipstick for fair skin generally comes in shades of light pink, burgundy, and gold. Skin tone is generally considered the most important factor in choosing a lipstick color. Makeup artists generally recommend that lip color should also be taken into account when choosing lipstick for fair skin or other skin types. The ideal color for lipstick is said to be about two shades darker than the natural color of the lips. Experts further recommend evaluating lipstick shades under natural light whenever possible.
It is generally believed that color should be applied directly to the lips when choosing a lipstick shade. Some recommend trying lipstick shades in the absence of any other makeup, to get the best possible skin tone match. If lipstick cannot be applied to the lips, the package or sample can be held up next to the face for comparison.
Those choosing lipstick for fair skin are usually advised to avoid dark brown shades, dark pinks, reds, and purples. Red lipstick for fair skin should be chosen to match the complexion. Ruby-red shades are said to complement pinkish complexions. Very pale complexions, however, are generally advised to avoid reds in favor of light pinks, such as peach or coral.
Those with fair skin are often advised to avoid the very darkest shades of purple, burgundy, and red, and to avoid most shades of brown. Shimmering lipsticks in warm golden-brown shades, however, may be the exception to this rule. Deep shades of red and maroon are generally recommended for those with a medium skin tone, but may be acceptable for some with fairer skin, especially as evening wear.
A certain level of experimentation is generally encouraged when choosing lipstick to match one's complexion. Lipsticks that appear too dark or too light can be blended with other colors to create a suitable shade of lipstick for fair skin. Some recommend applying clear lip balm to the lips before applying a dark shade of lipstick. The application of lip balm can mitigate the lipstick's color, while adding moisture and shine to the lips.
Natural light conditions are usually considered best for evaluating a lipstick shade's interaction with skin tone. These colors often look slightly different under artificial light. Try choosing lipstick shades near a window, if possible.