What’s the one makeup product that can flip your entire vibe in seconds? A bold lipstick. Whether you’re heading into a boardroom or out to brunch, a great lip can do more than just complete a look — it can be the look.
That’s why SFI.COZA has narrowed it down to 6 lipstick heroes that cut across skin tones, moods, and moments. We’ve looked beyond hype and influencer noise to find the lipsticks people reach for over and over again. The result is a solid, smart list with wide appeal, based on what actually looks good on South African skin tones, from rich melanin to golden undertones and fair complexions.
1. MAC Retro Matte Lipstick in “Ruby Woo”
Category: The Icon
MAC’s “Ruby Woo” has been around for years and still sells out. Its blue-red base flatters deep tones, lights up fair skin, and brings a bold edge to neutral makeup. It’s matte, but not chalky. Rich, but never overpowering.
Makeup artist Lungi Mkhize says, “This is the red lipstick I recommend to everyone. I’ve used it on brides, models, and CEOs.”
Best for: Power looks, press events, and anything you want to walk into with presence.
2. Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in “Uncensored”
Category: The Showstopper
This liquid red comes in one shade, and it works on everyone. Thanks to Rihanna’s skin-inclusive vision, “Uncensored” looks just as striking on dark skin as it does on olive or pale tones. Its soft matte finish lasts for hours and doesn’t flake or bleed.
Best for: First dates, weddings, and moments where you want to be remembered.
3. Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in “Ruler”
Category: The Workhorse
Affordable, reliable, and surprisingly luxe, this mauve-rose shade is wearable yet unique. It feels soft on the lips but refuses to budge, even after a long workday or dinner with greasy food. “Ruler” suits medium to deep skin beautifully and adds a touch of color without being too loud.
Best for: Zoom meetings, school runs, or Sundays at Market on Main.
4. NARS Audacious Lipstick in “Mona”
Category: The Sophisticate
“Mona” is a rich burgundy with warm undertones, perfect for autumn wardrobes, candlelit dinners, or anytime someone wants to bring depth to their look. Its satin finish adds just enough shine to make lips feel moisturized without gloss.
Cape Town stylist Zanele M. swears by it: “I call this my ‘grown woman’ shade. It’s mature, chic, and always on point.”
Best for: Fashion Week, gallery nights, or drinks with the girls.
5. Essence This Is Me Lipstick in “Brave”
Category: The Budget Babe
Proof that beauty doesn’t have to break the bank. “Brave” is a brownish nude with peachy tones that complements most undertones, especially when paired with a lip liner. Essence’s creamy texture means it glides on easily and keeps lips soft throughout the day.
Best for: Daily wear, campus style, and getting the most out of your budget.
6. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Shine in “Nude Lavallière”
Category: The Soft Touch
For those who like a balm-lipstick hybrid, this YSL pick offers luxury in both look and feel. The soft pink-nude shade flatters all skin tones, especially when paired with bronzed or glowing skin. It’s sheer but buildable, perfect for understated glamour.
Best for: Brunch, date nights, and soft-focus selfies.
Why These Lipsticks Work
What sets these picks apart is versatility. Each one brings something extra — lasting power, texture, or a universally flattering shade, and they’re easy to pair with different outfits, moods, or seasons.
They also work across a wide range of South African skin tones. Whether someone has warm undertones, olive shades, or deep complexions, these lipsticks enhance rather than overpower.
The Final Swipe
Lipstick is never just about color. It’s a marker of mood, energy, and attitude. The 6 lipstick products spotlighted here are more than trends, they’re tools. They serve the student, the CEO, the content creator, and the everyday woman who just wants to feel like herself, turned up a notch.
We at SFI.COZA think that stories have the ability to educate, uplift, and unite people. As a sociable and committed editor, we work hard to provide rich media coverage that connects with our audience. Our ambition to positively touch our audience's lives, one article at a time, is equal to our enthusiasm for storytelling. Come along on this adventure with us as we explore the planet.
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