What Color Lipstick Makes Teeth Look Whiter? A Beauty Expert’s Guide to a Brighter Smile

Ever wondered why some lipsticks make your smile dazzle while others highlight every hint of yellow? It’s not just your imagination—your lipstick shade can either brighten or dull the look of your teeth. As a beauty expert who has worked with dozens of clients in makeup consultations, I’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right lip color can instantly enhance your smile without any dental work. Let’s explore how you can use lipstick to your whitening advantage.

The Color Connection: Why Lipstick Shade Affects Tooth Color

This beauty illusion has everything to do with color theory. The shade of your lipstick creates contrast with the natural color of your teeth. Shades with cool undertones (like blue or purple bases) cancel out yellow tones in your enamel, making teeth appear whiter. On the flip side, warm-toned shades with orange or brown undertones tend to enhance any yellowness.

Think of it like a color wheel—cool tones balance out warm ones, creating visual harmony. This principle is often used in photography, fashion, and yes, makeup.

Whiten Your Smile Instantly: Best Lipstick Shades That Work

Not all lipsticks are created equal, especially when it comes to how they affect the appearance of your teeth. If you’re aiming for a brighter, whiter smile, these lipstick shades with specific undertones can make all the difference. Here’s a deeper dive into the best options for a radiant, photo-ready smile.

1. Blue-Based Reds: The Timeless Trick

Why it works:
Blue-based reds are a classic beauty secret for instantly whiter teeth. The cool blue undertone acts as a visual contrast to yellow hues, helping cancel them out. Because blue is opposite yellow on the color wheel, it neutralizes any visible discoloration, making teeth appear brighter and cleaner.

Best picks:

• Cherry red (e.g., MAC’s “Ruby Woo”)
• Cool crimson or scarlet reds
• True red with a blue base (look for descriptions like “cool red” or “blue-red” on packaging)

Pro tip: This shade is universally flattering on most skin tones, but especially stunning on fair to medium complexions. Apply with a lip liner to keep the edges clean for a high-impact finish.

2. Berry and Plum Shades: Deep, Chic, and Whiten-Friendly

Why it works:
Dark, cool-leaning berry and plum shades create a stark contrast with teeth, which helps them appear whiter. These shades draw attention away from yellow undertones by commanding focus on the lips.

Best picks:

• Deep raspberry
• Black cherry
• Mulberry or wine-toned lipsticks (e.g., Revlon’s “Black Cherry”)
• Rich cranberry shades

Pro tip: If you’re nervous about going too dark, try a sheer berry gloss for a more subtle effect. These shades work beautifully in fall and winter or for evening events.

3. True Pinks with Cool Undertones: Flirty and Brightening

Why it works:
Cool pinks—especially those with hints of fuchsia or magenta—counterbalance yellow tones in teeth. Warmer pinks tend to bring out yellow hues, while cool-toned pinks reflect light in a way that gives your smile a fresh, clean look.

Best picks:

• Fuchsia (e.g., Maybelline’s “Fuchsia Flash”)
• Cool bubblegum pinks
• Light rose pink with a blue base

Pro tip: These shades are youthful and vibrant—ideal for spring and summer. If you have cool or neutral undertones in your skin, these lipsticks will likely complement both your skin and your smile.

4. Cool Mauves and Dusty Roses: Everyday Shades That Subtly Brighten

Why it works:
Not everyone wants to wear bold lipstick daily, and that’s where mauves and dusty roses shine. These understated shades still have a cool undertone, which gently contrasts with any dullness in the teeth without being overpowering.

Best picks:

• Dusty rose with a blue-gray base
• Cool taupe-pink shades
• Soft mauve or muted lilac-rose

Pro tip: Perfect for the office, casual brunches, or daily wear. These shades also pair well with minimalist makeup for a polished, fresh-faced look.

5. Classic Blue-Toned Lip Gloss: Shine That Lifts Your Smile

Why it works:
If lipstick feels too heavy or bold, a blue-toned lip gloss can be your secret weapon. Glosses with a slight lavender or icy blue sheen reflect light in a way that visually boosts the brightness of your teeth. Some formulas are even designed with subtle pigments that cancel yellow tones.

Best picks:

• Iridescent gloss with a blue-violet hue
• Sheer glosses labeled “cool” or “icy”
• Plumping glosses with a bluish shimmer

Pro tip: Layer it over a cool-toned lipstick to double the whitening effect. Plus, glosses add dimension and volume to your lips, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.

Avoid These Lip Colors If You Want Whiter-Looking Teeth

Not all lipstick is created equal—some shades can bring out unwanted yellow or dull tones in your smile. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Orange-Based Reds and Corals

• These warm hues can highlight yellow in teeth.
• They tend to work better on tanned skin but are less forgiving on teeth.

2. Brown or Terracotta Shades

• While trendy, earthy browns often make teeth appear dull or darker.

3. Warm Nude Shades

• If your nude lipstick leans too beige, peach, or caramel, it may work against your smile.
• Instead, try pink-beige or cool taupe nudes.

4. Metallics with Gold or Copper Tones

• These reflect warm light and can exaggerate any discoloration in teeth.

Final Thoughts: Let Your Lipstick Be Your Smile’s Best Friend

You don’t need whitening strips or Photoshop to brighten your smile—sometimes, all it takes is the right lipstick. By choosing shades with cool undertones and avoiding warm-based colors, you can create the illusion of whiter teeth instantly.
Pro tip from the expert: Always test lipstick under natural lighting to truly see how it affects your teeth!