When choosing a lipstick, most people focus on how it complements their skin tone. However, using the right shade of lipstick can enhance your smile and make your teeth look whiter and brighter. The secret lies in understanding the color undertone and how it interacts with the natural shade of your teeth. Let’s take a look at the best lipstick colors for a glowing smile and which shades to avoid.
The science behind lipstick and teeth whitening
The appearance of your teeth is affected by the color of your lips. Cool tones of lipstick, such as blue or purple, counteract the yellow tint on your teeth and make them appear whiter. On the other hand, warm tones like orange and coral can accentuate yellowish tones and dull your smile. Choosing the right shade can easily create the illusion of a brighter smile.
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Best lipstick colors to whiten teeth
If you want your teeth to shine, here are some tried-and-true shades to consider.
- blue based red
There’s a reason why classic red lipstick with cool blue tones is so popular. Neutralizes yellowness and makes teeth look whiter. Look for shades like cherry red or crimson. - berry and plum shades
Rich berry and plum lipsticks are perfect for a bold look while enhancing the shine of your teeth. These dark tones add depth to your makeup and make your smile pop. - cool soft pink
If you prefer a more natural look, choose a soft pink with a hint of blue. These subtle shades provide a fresh, bright look without overwhelming your overall look.

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Lipstick colors to avoid
Depending on the shade, it may have the opposite effect and make your teeth look less white. Avoid things like:
- orange and coral shades
Vibrant and fun, this warm-toned lipstick highlights the yellows of your teeth and tames their brightness. - brown and warm nudes
Earth tones can wash out your smile and accentuate discoloration rather than minimizing it.

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Tips for finding the perfect lipstick
Finding the ideal lipstick shade doesn’t have to be that difficult. Here are some tips:
- Test in natural light: The lighting in the store can be misleading. To see the true color of your lipstick, always test your lipstick under natural light.
- Use whitening techniques. Combining your lipstick with teeth whitening products will further enhance its effectiveness. Using whitening toothpaste or whitening strips can beautify your teeth.
- Complement your makeup: Match your lipstick with other makeup to achieve a harmonious look.

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Recommendations for popular lipsticks to whiten teeth
When you’re ready to shop, here are some specific recommendations that beauty enthusiasts swear by.
- MAC Ruby Woo (Blue Base Red): It has a cult following due to its dramatic whitening effect.
- Pioneer Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink: The long-lasting, cool-toned red is perfect for all-day wear.
- Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint (Uncensored): A universally appealing shade with a bluish undertone.
- Revlon Super Gloss Lipstick Berry Auto: An affordable option with gorgeous berry tones.

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Do you have any other makeup tips for a whiter smile?
Using a bright concealer, avoiding yellow-based foundations, and applying highlighter on your cupid’s bow will draw attention to your lips and enhance the look of your smile.
How can I tell if a lipstick has a cool tone?
Look for descriptions such as “blue,” “cool,” and “berry” in the product name. Look at the lipstick on your hands to see if it has a pinkish or purplish tint rather than orange or brown.

What is the best drugstore lipstick for a whiter smile?
Great options include Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink in Pioneer (a blue-based red) and Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Berry Haute (a cool berry tone).
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
To make your teeth look whiter, cool-toned lipsticks such as blue-based reds, berries, and plums are best. These shades neutralize the yellow tone of your teeth and enhance their brightness.
Yes, but only red lipstick with a blue base. These cool reds counteract the yellow tint in your teeth, making them appear brighter and whiter.
Not always. A cool or pink-toned nude lipstick will help, but a warm-toned nude lipstick with peach or brown undertones can accentuate yellow tones and dull the look of your smile.
Orange lipstick has warm undertones that accentuate the yellow tint of your teeth, making them more noticeable. For a brighter smile, avoid orange tones and choose cooler colors instead.
A dark lipstick like plum or berry can make your teeth look whiter if it’s a cool shade. However, very dark brown or warm tones can have the opposite effect.
Yes, a cool pink or berry-toned lip gloss can make your teeth look whiter, especially if it has a slight shimmer or reflective finish to brighten the overall look.
Both work well as long as the shade has cool undertones. Glossy finishes can add brightness to the overall look, while matte finishes provide a bold, modern effect.
conclusion
Choosing the right lipstick shade can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth. For a brighter smile, look to cool tones like blue-based reds, berries, and soft pinks. Avoid warm-toned lipsticks such as orange or coral to avoid highlighting unwanted yellow tones.