Red lipstick is like the stiletto of lip products. Wearing it makes you look confident, ready to take on the world, and not to mention sexy. Having said that, it can also be intimidating and difficult to wear. BUT once you master wearing it (and find the right one for you), red lips can be an easy way to pack a punch with your makeup look without much effort.
Tip 1 – Find the right shade of red for you.
So many people think that any red lipstick can make your teeth look yellow, but it is really all in the shade choice. More blue-toned reds will bring out the white in your teeth, where more orange or warm-toned reds will bring out the yellow. The right shade for you should not only compliment your hair and eye colour, but your skin tone as well.
Tip 2 – Don’t skip lip liner.
This was my biggest mistake when I started wearing red lipstick. I was never one to use a lip liner, but I was finding that my lipstick always looked a little off. Finally, I took the advice of my
Grandma, and tried a matching red liner before applying my lipstick and it made all the difference. Now I never use my reds without a liner!
Tip 3 – Use the right finish.
Personally, I tend to have pretty dry lips, but I don’t really want a glossy red look either, so finding the right formula is very important. Because of my dry lips, I don’t usually go for any liquid lip products, but instead I prefer more of a cream finish. If I decide to go for a fully matte look, I always make sure to exfoliate my lips with a sugar scrub first (mine is from Lush), and then use a good lip balm.
Everyone will have different lipsticks that work for them, but here are a few of my faves:
- YSL Rouge Purl Couture Lipstick in shade #1 Le Rouge
This is my go to red lipstick. It is so comfortable to wear and it has the creamy finish I look for. It’s also blue toned so it never makes my teeth look yellow. It is a little expensive, but I have to say I do feel extra posh when I pull the tube out of my purse!
1. L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Le Matte Lipstick in shade #106 Mad for Matte
If you are looking for a lipstick that will last you all night (and into the next morning probably), then this is the one. Whenever I have a long day but I still want to rock a red lip, I always go for this one, even if I just wear it under my YSL. Although it does dry out my lips a little bit after wearing it all day, having a good lip balm handy keeps it looking good. For a final bonus… it’s also super cheap!
2. Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in shade Bing
This lipstick is underrated big-time. It is very comfortable to wear and has a great finish! My go-to tends to be my YSL, but if you’re not quite ready to spend $50 on a lipstick, this is an amazing, budget-friendly option, that still has amazing results.
3. MAC Matte Lipstick in shade Russian Red
This lipstick is one of the most classic options from all the red shades out there. If you’re a fan of MAC products, and you’re looking for a universal red, then this one is the perfect match!