To pinpoint some of the best lipsticks for dark skin tones, TZR spoke with makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran, Williamson and Spickard for their expert insight, backed by literal photo evidence. So these days, as you scour the bevy of lipsticks lining the shelves of your local beauty supply store, consider the following: “Shades of red and plum are generally good for all complexions,” says pro makeup artist Jonet Williamson, but when it comes to nudes for dark skin tones, she says that you 'should be really specific about the shade that you choose.” In this case, both she and MUA Kasey Adam Spickard recommend prioritizing warmer hues to ensure your lipstick adds to the “richness of your complexion' and 'doesn't wash you out” (per Williamson). Mere years ago, plucking a pretty-looking lipstick shade off of the shelf resulted in disappointment that took the form of a pale, ashy pout. Sure, legacy brands like Maybelline and Revlon have been stepping it up these days to pioneer universally flattering, super-saturated hues - but that certainly hasn't always been the case.

Choosing a new shade of lipstick sounds simple in theory, but it famously isn't, especially for makeup aficionados with darker skin tones.

Good mac lipsticks for dark skin