How to wear red lipstick

Scarlet lips are a classic, timeless look, synonymous with old Hollywood glamour.

Wearing such a bold colour can be daunting, and many of us shy away from red and opt for neutral lip colours. However, with the right products and techniques, a beautiful red pout is easy to achieve and wear.

If you choose to focus on the lips, keep the rest of your makeup simple; a flawless base, defined brows, flesh coloured eye shadow and two coats of black mascara. For a real retro look, winged liquid liner looks sensational with red lips.

Colour options

Reds come in different tones and depths. Blue-based “cool” toned reds are classic and make teeth look super white. These shades can work on anyone, but look great on paler skin tones. Warmer reds (with an orange undertone) look amazing on olive skin tones, and those with blue eyes. Darker complexions can opt for deeper reds. When in doubt, talk to an expert at the makeup counter. MAC cosmetics have a huge range of colours and well trained staff who can help you make the right colour choice.

Product pick: MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Texture/finish

A creamy, satin finish looks gorgeous, but red lipsticks also come in shimmery and matte finishes. As an alternative to lipstick, red lip gloss can give a hit of colour but has a softer look. A tiny dab of gloss in the centre of the lips over colour can transform your lipstick.

Product pick: MAC Lipstick in Lady Danger (matte)

Tools

A quality lip brush will enable precise application, and allow you to layer your lipstick for longevity. Lip brushes are also handy to get the last bit of product out of your tube. Compact lip brushes with a cap are ideal to pop in your handbag for touch ups, or just apply your colour straight from the tube. Fingers can also be used to dab on lipstick for a sheer lip stain.

Product pick: QVS Retractable Lip Brush

Application

Preparing the lips for lipstick is essential. Slathering on a thick layer of lip balm an hour before application will hydrate the lips. Buff this layer off gently with a cotton bud to remove any dry skin, repeat if necessary.

For a classic, bold red lip, prepare a base on the lips with a very light layer of concealer around the lip line; set this with powder. This will preventing lipstick from bleeding, and gives the colour something to adhere to.

Applying two thin layers of lip colour with a lip brush over this base will help your colour stay on much longer. For a softer look, apply colour straight from the tube, and blot with a tissue.

Alternatively, create a beautiful, natural lip stain by applying a tiny bit of lip balm, then patting on lipstick with your finger. Red lip gloss also be dabbed on with fingers, or applied with a lip brush.