Lipstick colors for African American women have a wide range of beautiful shades, just like the women who wear them. Lipsticks are an easy and usually inexpensive way to add color to your face, but if you're wondering which shades most flatter you, there are some tips to keep in mind to make sure you select your best colors.
Best Lipstick Colors for African American Women

How do you choose which lipstick colors will look best on you? As for all women of any ethnicity, your biggest consideration is your complexion. Because African American skin tones run the full gamut of the color spectrum, keep in mind whether your complexion is light, medium or dark. In addition, the undertones of your skin also have an effect on whether a lipstick really makes your lips pop or not.

Light
If your skin falls into the lighter range of African American skin tones, these color will look good on you:

Pale to deep pink
Peach
Taupe
Red
Medium
For medium-toned women, look into these lipstick colors:

Red
Medium to deep pink
Bronze
Magenta
Medium to deep brown
Dark
If your skin is dark and rich, try these shades:

Deep red
Fuchsia
Magenta
Chocolate brown
Bronze
Don't think that just because your skin is in the darker range that you can't wear colors that look fabulous on lighter skin. Instead, experiment! While you can't do this with drugstore cosmetics, you can always visit the makeup counter at a department store to test colors. You may find lipstick colors for African American women that you never thought you could wear. There are pink and red shades that flatter all skin tones, so even if you thought you could never wear pink, if you find the right shade, you'll see that you can definitely wear it and look great in it!

Wear it Right

Even though women with darker skin tones can often wear bold shades that may overpower fairer skin, keep in mind the occasion and place. No matter what your complexion, too much gloss and bright lipstick is still a no-no for a regular office environment. Nighttime is the time to wear brighter and more dramatic shades.

If you love bold lipstick, however, you can make it work for day. Just make that the focus of your face and keep the rest of your makeup subdued. Red lipstick is a classic and looks good on any woman, once she finds the perfect shade for her. You can wear red lip color with lightly lined eyes, mascara and a small amount of blush for a look that's suitable for anywhere, including the office.

Which Brands?

While there are cosmetic lines devoted to women of color, you can find flattering and complementary lipstick colors virtually anywhere, for all skin shades. Even mainstream brands feature colors that range from very light to very dark. Because lipstick is usually a fairly inexpensive item, feel free to experiment.

You can also create your own custom colors by mixing two or more lipstick shades if you're having trouble finding the perfect one. Plus, it's always a good idea to have several options on hand, ranging from light to dark lipsticks. This gives you choices when you're getting ready for the day.

Inspiration
If you don't know where to start as far as choosing lipstick, look at magazines for models or celebrities whose skin tone is similar to yours. See what cosmetic colors they wear and if it really looks good on them; then you can shop for your own.

Lipstick Smart

Whether you're a makeup novice or your cosmetics case is full-to-bursting, use lipstick to complete your look. Once you find your best colors, you'll be able to put your best face forward no matter where you're going.