Red lips are the perfect finishing touch to that little black dress or an outfit with a really muted color palette. Not to mention, red lips make you feel like a total boss—if you’re looking for a confidence boost, look no further!
Whether you’re heading to class or going out on a date, you can always rock a red lip. Experiment with a few products until you find the right ones for you and your lifestyle. Here are four of my favorite, go-to products that are perfect for everyone from beginners to experts!
Almay Liquid Lip Balm in “Apple A Day” (300): $5 at drugstores. If you’re new to the red lips scene, I recommend this product. It feels like a gloss, but it’s creamier and more moisturizing. The color is really subtle and it smells like a cupcake! I even like adding a little of this product overtop of lipstick or lip stain for a glossy finish.
Clinique Almost Lipstick in “Black Honey” (06): $15 at department stores. First of all, do not be afraid when you open this product! It’s a stain, so the product itself is a deep purple, nearly black color, but, when you apply it, it’s a beautiful pink color. Add another coat for a sheer red tone. This was my first red lip product, and I tried it because so many reviews claimed it’s a color that looks good on everyone. I definitely encourage you to try out this product because you can play with the color based on how many coats you apply. Plus, it’s a stain so it lasts all day long and won’t rub off. It’s a bit more expensive, but definitely worth it.
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Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in “Standout Remarquable” (250): $8 at drugstores. This product glides on like a lipstick, but feels like a light balm. I’ve looked high and low for the perfect red, and I think this is it! The color is rich without being overpowering. I love this product because it’s smooth and creamy without feeling too thick. Plus, it has a nice mint smell. If you prefer a lip product with a little shine, try the Revlon Colorburst Lacquer Balm.
Rimmel Lasting Finish by Kate Lipstick in “Rosetto” (107): $5 at drugstores. If you’re feeling really bold and ready to step up your red lip game, you should absolutely try this lipstick. When I first tried this color, I thought it was too much for me, but the longer I wore it, the more fabulous I thought it looked! This color is a slightly darker red than your traditional red lipstick, and it has some magenta undertones. If the sexy color doesn’t make you feel flirty, the fruity scent will! I love pairing this lipstick with a neutral toned outfit. It adds an amazing pop of color to your look and I guarantee you’ll feel like a major diva. P.S. This brand of lipstick comes in two formulas, so I recommend you buy the one in the red tube, not the black tube.
Playing with new brands and products is the best way to find what shade of red really works for you. Don’t get discouraged if you purchase a few duds that aren’t quite right.
I also recommend you try out a new color on an evening when you don’t have plans, that way you can walk around your apartment all night and see how the product feels and looks over a few hours. There’s nothing worse than having to sit in class or on a date feeling self conscious or uncomfortable about your makeup, so testing it out beforehand will prevent that. Just remember that the key to pulling off a bold, red lip is being confident!