Whether you love or hate Y2K fashion trends, one thing’s clear—concealer lips are making a comeback. Chanel, Dior, Jason Wu Collection, and Khaite all showcased their take on the look for Spring 2025, and celebrities are increasingly embracing pale lips both on and off the red carpet. Just look at Gracie Abrams’ barely-there lips at the Grammys or Tinashe’s signature Y2K lip for proof. It seems the era of bold berry and bright red lips might be fading in favor of softer, more subtle shades.

### What are concealer lips?
In the early 2000s, ultra-pale, shimmery “nude” lips were everywhere. Whether on the runway, in magazines, music videos, or reality TV, washed-out lips were a defining trend of the time. Often paired with dramatic eye makeup or oversized fake lashes, the look was a staple of the era’s futuristic-retro aesthetic.

Back then, makeup shade inclusivity wasn’t a priority, so if your skin tone didn’t match the limited pale lip colors available, options were scarce. Many people turned to concealer to create a lip color that matched their skin—hence the term “concealer lips.” Not the most practical solution, but it worked.

### The return of concealer lips
“Neutral-toned lips have been around since before the Kardashians and Instagram,” says makeup artist Rubén Zamora. “The difference is that back then, they were part of an overly done look—heavy contouring, thick foundation, dramatic lashes—whereas now, the focus is more on the lips themselves.”

Today’s concealer lips are often paired with softer, more natural makeup—think sheer foundation, subtle blush, and muted eyeshadow. Zamora also credits the trend’s revival to the popularity of plump lips. “We’re in the era of full, pouty lips, and nude tones make them appear even wider,” he explains. “The outer edges blend with the skin, while the inner lip stands out, creating the illusion of thickness.”

MAC Iberia makeup artist Xabi Rodrigues points to the rise of cosmetic enhancements as another factor: “Lip filler looks amazing with nude lipstick and liner—this was how we achieved fuller lips before hyaluronic acid injections became mainstream.” She also notes the lasting influence of early 2000s icons like the Olsen twins, Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan, who still rock this look. With the Olsens’ fashion brand, The Row, thriving, it’s no surprise this nostalgic trend is back.

Rodrigues adds that Gen Z has played a big role in the trend’s resurgence: “They see nude lips as fresh and new.” Zamora agrees, noting that pale lips are “more casual than a bold red” and suit a variety of styles. “You can enhance them with liner or a dab of concealer for volume, or keep it understated for a low-key look.”

### Finding the right shade
Chanel makeup ambassador Raquel Alvarez suggests considering two factors: skin tone and undertone. “Cool undertones pair best with pink-based nudes, while warm undertones suit peachy or golden hues,” she says.

She also recommends assessing your lips’ natural pigmentation. “Kids often have naturally rosy lips, but as we age, that fades,” Alvarez explains. “If you’re lucky enough to still have naturally pigmented lips, don’t try to cover them up—work with what you have.””Skip it—it won’t look flattering. Instead, pick a shade with a similar tone,” she advises. “But if your lips are naturally pale, you can pull off a lighter color without any issues.”

To find the right match, test a few shades—and don’t just swatch them on your hand or arm. As Rodrigues points out, “You really need to try each color on your lips to see how it looks.”

Once you’ve chosen your shade, keep the rest of your makeup light and fresh. “The key is to avoid heavy, smoky eyes so the look doesn’t feel dated,” says Zamora. “If you need to balance your features, go for bold brows and dark, full lashes. And don’t forget a touch of blush for a healthy glow.”

### The Best Nude Lipsticks for a Modern Concealer-Lip Look

– Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet — Naturelle ($52)
– Maybelline Super Stay Liquid Lipstick — Loyalist ($8 at Amazon)
– Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick — Nude Kate ($35 at Blue Mercury)
– Dior Rouge Dior Refillable Lipstick — Beige Couture ($49 at Nordstrom)
– Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Lipstick — Spice ($38)
– MAC Cosmetics Silky Matte Lipstick — Acting Natural ($25)