The Essential Red Lipstick Guide
Red lips are a makeup lovers bread and butter. In a rush? put on some red lipstick. Going on a date? Red lips are a must. Trying a vintage look? Add a red lip. You get the idea! But did you know that there are a few tips to help you get the best from your red lipstick. Some hues will suit some skin tones better and there is a simple way to check for yours! Just read on and explore our Essential Red Lipstick Guide!
STEP 1; CHOOSE YOUR FINISH
Cream - Cream finishes are the most classic in a lipstick and they offer the perfect combination between a shiny gloss and a highly pigmented matte so they are ideal for everyday wear.
Matte - Matte lipsticks are super trendy right now and offer a very bold look. You may have some trial and error with these though as some matte formulas can be more drying than others and can emphasise any cracks or dry patches on the lips. Be sure to exfoliate and moisturise the lips before applying for the perfect matte finish.
Frosted - Packed with pearly shimmer, frosted lipsticks can be hard to pull off but they are super eye-catching when done right. Apply them sparingly to avoid a frost-bitten look and be wary when applying onto dry lips as the shimmer can tend to settle in the cracks. Practise makes perfect!
Satin - If you're looking for the intense colour of a matte with the hydrating power of a balm then satin lipsticks are for you. They are hard wearing and non-dragging when applied so they are great for on-the-go touch-ups.
Sheer - A blend of lipstick and lip balm with the power of shine and just a hint of colour, sheer lipsticks are perfect for those who prefer a more subtle look and bonus, they are super easy to apply!
STEP 2; FIND YOUR UNDERTONE
Your undertone will usually be either cool (a pink hue) or warm (yellow hue). You can find your undertone by checking the veins in your wrist, if they appear blue then you likely have a cool undertone but if you have more green looking veins then you likely have a warm undertone
Fair skin - If you have a fair complexion then pick up a bright red or coral-y red lipstick with blue undertones. Not only will this make your teeth look whiter (ka-ching!) it'll bring out life in your skin and give you a radiance. We suggest MAC's classic 'Ruby Woo' or NARS Audacious Lipstick in 'Annabella' for this.
Ivory Skin - Berry tones work perfectly with ivory complexions, so go for a raspberry or cranberry hue for best results, we think the Clinique Colour Surge Lipstick in 'Raspberry Rush' will work for this! Match with super long lashes for a flirty finish.
Olive/ medium skin - Try to avoid blue undertones and opt for an orange based red instead! Fiery and vibrant, it will add a glow to the skin and keep you from looking tired or dull. We think Kat Von D Studded Lipstick in 'Countess' would suit you!
Golden skin - If you're a golden skinned beauty and you're looking for the perfect berry lip then burgundy is the way forward. The deep tone will add intensity to your look. We think the Maybelline New York Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color in Burgundy Blush is perfect for you.
Dark skin - If you have a cocoa complexion then a deep, rich red will have you looking on fire! We love the Gerard Cosmetics Supreme Lip Creme in 'Maneater' for you.
It may seem tricky to find your perfect red but just following our simple steps will make all the difference! One thing is for sure though, every girl can benefit from using our Bella&Bear Rusty Spotted Cat Lip Brush with lipstick application, it'll ensure an even and neat application every time.