These are the most popular MAC lipstick shades to suit any skin tone

Surprisingly, a couple of big-hitters don't make the list of the most popular MAC lipsticks

Collage of MAC Matte Lipstick in Taupe
(Image credit: MAC Cosmetics)

Whether you're a complete makeup newbie buying your first lipstick, or you're looking to expand your collection with a few more staple shades, the best MAC lipsticks are a great place to start. Because the iconic brand's extensive color range can seem overwhelming at first glance, having a smaller starting point of the best-loved shades is nice to inspire your next purchase (or two, or three).

Online beauty retailer LOOKFANTASTIC conducted a deep dive into the most popular MAC Lipstick shades, giving us all inspiration for expanding our collections— because as with the best eyeshadow palettes, there are so many choices that it's nice to have a starting point when shopping. 

The list features some of the most recognizable MAC shades across browns, reds, pinks, and beiges. Surprisingly, though, neither Ruby Woo nor Lady Danger made the top 10—nor did the exact MAC lipstick Jennifer Aniston wore as Friends' Rachel Green. Keep reading for the top 10 list in full to find a new favorite MAC lipstick shade or rediscover an old favorite.

Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the US

  • ASOS: Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
  • LOOKFANTASTIC: Another beauty e-tailer that stocks your MAC faves
  • MAC Cosmetics: Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
  • Nordstrom: The department store often has big sales including discounts on beauty buys

Where to buy MAC lipsticks in the UK

  • ASOS: Enjoy next day delivery on MAC by shopping the Face + Body section
  • Boots: Earn Advantage Card points on Studio Fix, Velvet Teddy, Fix+ Spray and more
  • House of Fraser: Find sporadic MAC discounts and money-saving bundles 
  • John Lewis: The iconic department store is a great place to snap up your MAC faves, sometimes on sale
  • LOOKFANTASTIC: Shop a range of MAC lipstick shades and formulas at the beauty e-tailer
  • MAC Cosmetics: Go directly to MAC to take advantage of things like their "Back to MAC" scheme
  • Next: Now a beauty destination that stocks all your MAC faves as well as fashion and homeware
  • Sephora: Now with a bricks-and-mortar store in London, Sephora also recently became a MAC stockist in the UK
Lucy Abbersteen

Lucy is a beauty journalist who has written for titles including Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, OK!, woman&home and Women's Health, as well as regularly contributing to My Imperfect Life. Her work covers everything from skin and haircare tips to trying and testing the latest beauty launches, and interviewing celebrities and experts. A certified dog person, her other interests include mental wellbeing, books, piña coladas and not getting caught in the rain.