There are very few beauty routines that have the power to completely change the mood of a look quite like the red lip. It’s classic, it screams confidence and it instantly makes even the simplest makeup feel bold. A swipe of red can instantly elevate a fresh-faced look.
But as timeless as a red lip may be, it can also feel intimidating. The wrong shade, uneven application or a little too much product can quickly take away from its charm. From finding your ideal shade to making sure it stays put all day, these are the red lipstick rules worth knowing.
Do: Find Your Perfect Red
Not all reds are created equal. The beauty of red lipstick is that there is a shade for everyone, it’s just about finding the undertone that works best for you.
Blue-based reds tend to give a cooler, more classic finish, while orange and coral reds bring warmth and a fresh summer feel. Deeper berry and wine shades create a more dramatic, evening-ready look.
Our favourite way to test a red? Don’t judge it only on the tube. Try it on your lips, because the same shade can look completely different depending on your natural lip color and skin tone.
Don’t: Skip Lip Prep
Red lipstick has a way of highlighting everything, including dry patches. Before applying, gently exfoliate your lips and follow with a nourishing balm.
Essentially, you should do this step before starting your makeup so the balm has time to sink in. By the time you’re ready for lipstick, your lips are smooth and ready for colour.
Do: Use Lip Liner
A red lip deserves a little extra precision. Lip liner not only defines the shape of your lips but also helps prevent feathering throughout the day.
For a softer look, choose a liner close to your natural lip colour. For a more defined, vintage-inspired pout, match it closely to your lipstick shade and fill in the lips before applying colour.
Don’t: Apply Too Much at Once
With red lipstick, less is usually more. Start with a thin layer and build up the intensity instead of applying a thick coat immediately. A lighter application can feel more french girl classic, while a fully saturated red creates that classic Hollywood finish.
Do: Blot and Set
Apply your first layer, gently blot with a tissue, then add another layer for longer-lasting colour. For extra staying power, lightly dust translucent powder through a tissue placed over your lips to set everything in place.
Don’t: Forget About Maintenance
A red lip is beautiful, but it does require a little attention. Keep your lipstick nearby for quick touch-ups, especially after eating or drinking. And don’t worry about making it look “perfect” all day. Sometimes a slightly lived-in red lip feels even more chic.
Our Favourite Red Lipsticks to Try
