How to Wear Black Lipstick Like a Pro

Dating back to the 19th century, gothic fashion has been making a resurgence in recent years. And with that comes the lovely aesthetic of black lipstick. While it may seem like a challenge to pull off, we're here to tell you that black lipstick can be wearable for anyone—yes, even you! Here's a quick guide on who can wear black lipstick and how to make it work for you.

The Basic Rules of Wearing Black Lipstick

First things first, let's get one thing straight: black lipstick is not for the faint of heart. It takes confidence and a certain je ne sais quoi to carry off this look. But we have faith in you! If you're feeling daring and want to give black lipstick a try, there are a few basic rules you should follow.

Choose the right finish: Black lipstick comes in a variety of finishes, from matte to gloss. If you're new to the game, we recommend starting with a semi-matte or cream finish. These are more forgiving than a fully matte formula and will help you avoid that dreaded dry and cracked look.

Exfoliate your lips: This step is important for any lip color, but it's especially crucial when you're dealing with darker shades. Be sure to exfoliate your lips beforehand so the color goes on evenly and doesn't highlight any dry patches.

Line your lips: You want your black lipstick to look as sharp as possible, so take the time to line your lips with a matching liner. This will also help the color last longer.

Find the right shade for you: Just like with any other lip color, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to black lipstick. There are myriad shades available on the market, so take some time to experiment until you find the perfect one for you.

Who Can Wear Black Lipstick?

Now that you know the basics of wearing black lipstick, let's talk about who can pull it off. Contrary to popular belief, black lipstick is not just for goths and emo kids—anyone can wear it! The key is finding the right shade and formula for your skin tone.

If you have fair skin...
Try a shade with blue undertones. This will help brighten up your complexion and give you an edgy look that's still approachable.

If you have medium skin...
Opt for a shade with purple undertones. This will compliment your skin tone and give you a vampy look that's oh-so-glamorous.

If you have dark skin...
Go for a true black hue. This will give you a fierce look that commands attention—perfect for making a bold statement.

So, are you ready to try black lipstick? We hope this guide has given you the confidence boost you need to give this unique color a try! Remember, there is no one-size-fits all when it comes to makeup—find what works best for YOU and run with it! We promise people will be asking "Where did you get that amazing lippie?" in no time flat ;)

Need help picking out your first black lipstick? We can help! Tap the button below for our top five black lipstick picks. One of them was even voted by bloggers as the best in the U.S. Have fun!