Have you ever swiped on a gorgeous mauve lipstick only to wonder, “Does this suit my skin tone?” If you have brown or Indian skin, chances are you’ve heard that cool-toned lip, those icy pinks, berry purples, and blue-based reds aren’t made for you. But let’s bust that myth once and for all. Cool tones aren’t just reserved for fair complexions or editorial shoots. When chosen thoughtfully, they can look striking, sophisticated, and downright stunning on Indian skin tones. The trick isn’t avoiding them, it’s understanding your unique undertone and choosing shades that flatter rather than fight your complexion.
If you read further, you’ll explore the full spectrum of Indian skin tones and match them to the coolest lip colours on the market (literally and figuratively). So if you’re ready to dip into the cooler side of the lipstick spectrum, keep reading, we’re about to find your next signature shade.
What Are Cool Tones?
Cool-toned lipsticks typically have blue, purple, or pink undertones, which are like the mysterious, moody cousins of your usual warm reds and corals. We’re talking berries, mauves, icy pinks, bluish reds, and those deep plums that look like they belong in a Lana Del Rey music video.
But here’s the plot twist: Indian skin isn’t one-size-fits-all. We’re a spectrum from buttery fair to golden medium to rich, deep brown, and what looks like a dreamy mauve on one person might scream “foundation lips” on another. So, before you declare a cool-toned lipstick your arch-nemesis, let’s talk undertones. Because yes, that one detail can make or break your whole look.
Decoding Indian Skin Tones
Before we talk colours, let’s identify where your skin tone falls on the spectrum. Indian skin typically includes the following undertones:
- Warm undertones: Your skin has a golden, yellow, or peachy base. You tan easily, and gold jewellery looks great on you.
- Cool undertones: Your skin leans pink, red, or even slightly bluish. You might burn before tanning, and silver jewellery tends to flatter you more.
- Neutral undertones: A mix of warm and cool. You can wear both gold and silver jewellery with ease.
To find your undertone, try the classic vein test. Could you look at the veins on your inner wrist? If they appear green, you likely have warm undertones. If they appear blue or purple, you’re a cool-toned person. Can’t tell? You’re probably neutral.
Cool Tone Lip Colours That Flatter Indian Skin
Now for the fun part- lipstick! Whether you’re a fan of a dramatic pout or a subtle tint, there’s a cool-toned lip colour out there for every Indian skin tone.
1. Berry Bliss
Rich berry tones like cranberry, blackberry, or boysenberry are classic cool hues that flatter medium to deep Indian skin beautifully. Their depth complements melanin-rich skin while the blue undertone brightens your overall complexion.
💄 Try: MAC “Rebel”, Huda Beauty “Trophy-Wife”, Maybelline “Berry Bossy”
2. Mauve Magic
Mauve, a mix of purple and pink, is a dream for cool and neutral undertones. It works exceptionally well on medium and olive skin tones, offering a subtle yet sophisticated look.
💄 Try: Charlotte Tilbury “Pillow Talk Medium”, NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in “Montreal”, Maybelline Vinyl Ink “Coy”
3. Rosy Pinks
Think soft, petal pinks or cool-toned dusty roses. While they might appear too light for deeper skin tones, layering with a darker liner can create a gorgeous ombré effect. For fair Indian skin with cool undertones, this is a match made in heaven.
💄 Try: Charlotte Tilbury “Red Carpet Pink”, Simplynam Satin Soft Lip Crème “Disha”, Kay Beauty Matte Drama Long Stay Lipstick – “Rehearsal”
4. Bluish Reds
Unlike warm reds with an orange base, blue-based reds have a bold, universally flattering quality. They make your teeth appear whiter and lend a timeless glam to any look.
💄 Try: MAC “Ruby Woo” (a cult classic), NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment – “Under My Thumb”, Maybelline Vinyl Ink “Unrivaled”
5. Plum Perfection
Dark plum or wine lipsticks are especially flattering on dusky skin tones with cool undertones. They’re dramatic, luxurious, and perfect for evening wear or festive occasions.
💄 Try: PAT McGrath LABS Satinallure Lipstick “Infatuation”, Lakme Forever Matte “Wine Touch”, Smashbox “Miss Conduct”
How to Make Cool Tones Work- Even If You’re Warm-Toned?
You don’t need to avoid cool tones just because you have warm undertones. It’s all about balance and application. Here is what you can do to flaunt your cool-toned lips:
- Use a cool-toned lip liner, such as Makeup Forever’s “Endless Cacao” or Rimmel London’s “Cappuccino” to contour your lips without making them look weird, and pair it with any Nude shade lipsticks of your choice. Even the red lipsticks also look fantabulous paired with these cool-toned brown lip liners.
- A cool-toned gloss on top can also work well over any lipstick without overpowering it.
- Match your blush to your lip tone. If you’re wearing a cool-toned lip, opt for a soft pink or mauve blush to harmonize your face.
When to Wear Cool Tones
Cool-toned lipsticks are incredibly versatile and seasonally appropriate. Deep berries, wines, and bluish reds are your go-tos for winter and fall. Icy pinks, cool mauves, and light roses bring freshness to your look, especially in spring and summer. Cool reds and plums offer drama and elegance for weddings or parties. Try soft mauves or rosy nudes for an effortless, polished vibe for the office and work.
Final Thoughts:
The idea that Indian or brown skin tones can’t wear cool-toned lipsticks is an outdated myth. Today, makeup is less about strict rules and more about personal expression. Whether you’re flaunting a cool fuchsia or a sultry plum, the most important thing is how you feel wearing it. Ultimately, cool tones can be ideal for brown skin, provided you select shades that complement your undertone and wear them with confidence. So go ahead, swipe on that daring berry or soft mauve, and let your lips do the talking.
Beauty Tip: Cool-toned lipsticks paired with glowing skin and minimal eye makeup are a match made in makeup heaven. Let your lips be the star of the show!
Also Read:
5 Best Lipstick Shades That Will Light Up Your Look!
10 Matte Yet Comfortable Liquid Lipsticks for Summer!
Are you bored of lipsticks? Add these coloured tints to your routine
