How to Find the Right Red Lipstick for Your Skin Tone
When it comes to makeup mood-boosters, nothing beats a red lipstick. There’s a reason why the iconic look has stood the test of time, and why so many of today’s A-listers are constantly matching their own pouts to the red carpet. (Need proof? Just look to some of Jasmine Tookes, Gigi Hadid, and Rihanna's best red lip moments above.)
That said, it can be more than a little intimidating to determine which vibrant crimson is best suited for your unique skin tone. Is a fiery orangey-red more your jam? Or perhaps a vivid, blue-toned formula? With so many different shades, textures and formulations to choose from — not to mention so many brands offering amazing options — we're here to make the shopping experience a little easier for you.
Keep scrolling for makeup artist-approved tips on how to find the best red lipstick for your skin tone. (FYI, everyone can rock a red.)
First step: Consult your undertones.
"Use skin tone as the guide," suggests Lori Taylor-Davis, Global Pro Lead Artist for Smashbox Cosmetics. "For warmer, light or medium skin tones, choose warm red tones like this Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in Legendary."
Brights are universal.
"If you're gonna go red, it's almost better to go really bold than middle of the road," says Vo. "I like true, vibrant reds." This extra-bright shade from Jane Iredale certainly fits the bill, and the vibrant hue truly pops on every skin tone.
If you have golden undertones, choose a warmer red.
"A really bright matte red is such a statement look," says North, who notes she personally likes more creamy formulations when it comes to creating such a statement. This supermodel-approved shade, which works well with warmer skintones, is a universal red that won't smudge after you apply.
Neutral undertones can rock any red. (Lucky you!)
“The good thing is, those with neutral undertones can wear all types or reds,” says celebrity makeup artist Neil Scibelli. “Berry reds, pink-reds or even organgey-reds. But I would personally most recommend a true, classic red for neutral skin tones.” You can’t go wrong with Fenty Beauty’s signature Stunna shade.
Complement medium skin with bright berry.
"Matte red is flattering on most people," says celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo. "Because when you go glossy, it has to be so precise and perfect, and once you mess that up, you're done." Urban Decay’s new powders provide a whole new (and seriously flattering) way to make your lips velvety matte — and this berry red is perfect for medium skin tones.
Deeper skin tones can try dark, purple-reds.
Love the feel of a gloss with the staying power of a matte lipstick? Try a velvety liquid formula that won't smudge after setting, like this one from Formula Z, which comes in a dark raspberry shade (Cabaret) that blends well with your natural lip tone.
Invest in a makeup artist favorite.
When we were chatting with the artists about their favorite red lipsticks, there was one product that came up time and time again: MAC Ruby Woo. "Ruby Woo is a very good staple red that anyone could pull off," says North. If you're going to invest in a single red, this one won't let you down.
Last tip? You better shape up.
"A red is universal, if you're fair skinned or dark skinned," says North. The key to nailing the look, no matter what shade you go with? Create a precise shape with a dual-ended crayon like Soap & Glory's, which at $12, is more like getting two lip products for $6 each.
