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The Best Red Lipstick
Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Red Lipstick
The iconic red lipstick has been around for as long as we can remember. Wearing red lipstick is a bold statement, and the perfect shade can look good on almost anyone. However, finding the best red lipstick among all of the options can be a daunting task. You have to look for what suits your skin, whether it’s a superstar matte formula, lip gloss formula, or liquid formula.
Here, we pick out some of the best red lipsticks from drugstore mainstays like Revlon and high-end favorites like Charlotte Tilbury. Keep scrolling to find the perfect red lipstick shade for you to add to your makeup routine.
What are the Best Red Lipsticks?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best Classic |  Best Long Lasting |
Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999The Rouge Dior Lipstick has a universal red shade that looks good on many skin types. This gorgeous lipstick is easy to apply and leaves a comfy texture that lasts all day! | MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Ruby WooIf you want a soft matte finish that lasts all day, the MAC cosmetics Ruby Woo is for you. This classic red lipstick fits perfectly in any formal event and will make sure you stand out on any occasion. | Fenty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in UncensoredThere are a lot of red lippies that are long-lasting, but not every lippy is suitable for that. This Fenty lipstick is the top choice if you want a lippy that's comfortable for all-day use, thanks to its hydrating finish that isn't drying even after multiple retouches. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Red Lipstick
#1: Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999
The roots of the iconic Rouge Dior 999 can be traced back to 1953. Christian Dior himself had created two different shades, 9 and 99 (after his lucky number), for his models to sport on the runway.
Decades later, lipsticks were modernized to create the 999 everyone knows and loves. But why exactly is it so beloved?
In the world of red lipsticks, there are a few ones that earn the rank of “looks good on everyone.” Dior’s Rouge Lipstick in the shade 999 is one of them.
Whether you possess dark skin tones or an olive complexion, the 999 is guaranteed to give your look that extra oomph. And we can’t get enough of its comfy texture.
Unlike many lipsticks, which tend to have a creamy-powdery feel, the 999 is a full-coverage deep red lipstick that doesn’t impose its presence on your lips. In other words, it’s really soft and easy to wear.
It lasts the whole day, too, which might be too good to be true, but that’s why it’s our best overall red long-wearing lipstick. If you’re looking for a more warm red, this may not be for you.
If you’re a fan of the 999, you’ll also enjoy the same shade in different lip formulas. Dior has since released multiple products with the 999, including a metallic red lipstick, a liquid matte, and a shiny lip gloss.
Pros and Cons of the Dior Rouge
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Universally-flattering “true” red ✔️ Iconic shade ✔️ Suitable for many skin tones | ✖️ Expensive |
#2: MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Ruby Woo
Another iconic shade used by celebrity makeup artists, MAC Cosmetics’ Ruby Woo is a bold red lip that you’ve probably seen on the likes of Rihanna and Taylor Swift. The texture is soft and gives a matte, zero-shine finish for a classic look.
The bullet lipstick contains a blue-toned red, which works great for pretty much any skin tone, deep or light. Just make sure you’re not someone who shies away from an eye-catching color because this WILL make heads turn!
If you’re planning on going to a dinner party or a function sporting a warm red lip, then MAC’s Ruby Woo is a bright red matte lipstick you’ll want to have with you. It’s transfer-proof and doesn’t budge even when you’re eating something, so you can enjoy full meals without retouching.
Pros and Cons of the MAC Matte Lipstick Ruby Woo
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Universally flattering classic shade ✔️ Intense color payoff ✔️ Perfect for both light and dark skin tones | ✖️ More expensive than other red shades |
#3: Fenty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored
Our next favorite is a newcomer that can nonetheless compete with more established makeup brands.
Launched in 2017, Fenty Beauty has become a staple in many professional makeup artists’ and beauty enthusiasts’ kits, and it’s not just because it carries Barbadian superstar Rihanna’s name on it.
The Fenty Beauty Stunna is one of the best liquid lipsticks with a warm red shade you could invest in. Its texture is a liquid matte that layers well – you can build a few layers without feeling too overpowered because the consistency isn’t drying at all.
It makes your lips hydrated. It also comes with a lip wand for precise application.
Throughout the day, the hydrating matte doesn’t crunch or chap your lips. I’d say the drawback is it doesn’t stick to the crevices of your lips the way a true matte lipstick would, but unless you’re intentionally scrubbing or biting your lips, the Stunna does not budge.
As for the undertone, it’s a pretty neutral red, so no matter your color, you’re going to love this. But as a pro tip, if you’re not quite happy with how a color looks on you, try lining your lips with a darker tint that’s close to your natural lip color.
This will help make any color instantly blend more nicely and look more natural overall. The Stunna Lip Paint by Fenty Beauty is the perfect bright red lippie for this, as it doesn’t tug when you apply a lip pencil.
Pros and Cons of the Fenty Stunna in Uncensored
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Perfect for both light and deep skin tones ✔️ Heavily pigmented ✔️ Lasts all-day ✔️ Vegan ✔️ Matte liquid lipstick that doesn’t dry out | ✖️ Can feel too watery ✖️ Prone to smudging |
#4: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in The Queen
Speaking of true mattes, the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution might be more to your taste if you prefer something more opaque and less watery.
This makeup artist-originated brand is no stranger to red-carpet-worthy looks, so if you want a tried and tested velvet matte, this one is it.
Even though it’s matte, it’s still quite creamy and hydrating. It’s also pretty buildable without feathering or cakiness, and although it produces a solid color with one swipe, you can still go darker and deeper with your choice of red.
Keep in mind that this lippie falls on the expensive side. But apart from a long-lasting and pigmented formula, you also get this beautiful metallic rose gold tube and an engraved cap that clicks into place.
The taper is square, which may be difficult for thinner lips, but it helps with precision if you know how to hold it right.
The fuchsia-red undertones make this friendly for any skin type, but it would look best on very fair skin with a pink undertone.
PROS AND CONS OF THE CHARLOTTE TILBURY MATTE IN THE QUEEN
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Highly pigmented ✔️ Unique, opulent packaging ✔️ Hydrating matte that doesn’t smudge ✔️ Makeup artist-approved | ✖️ Not cheap |
#5: Guerlain KissKiss Tender Matte Lipstick in Kiss Rouge
As a beauty editor whose daily life includes applying lipstick, Guerlain’s KissKiss Tender Matte Lipstick in Kiss Rouge is a definite must-have. It is a cool red with subtle blue undertones, perfect for those seeking a true red shade that enhances every complexion.
While it may not seem to have a creamy finish, this luminous lipstick glides on effortlessly, offering a luxurious liquid formula feel without compromising hydration.
This long-wearing lipstick stands out among the best red lipsticks with its texture and moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter. This cool red lipstick delivers sophistication at another level.
Designed for all-day wear, the KissKiss Tender Matte Lipstick is more than just a bright orange-red—it’s a dynamic option that suits warm tones and cooler undertones alike.
Its lightweight formula ensures a smooth application, and the nourishing blend of ingredients keeps lips soft, even after hours of wear.
This red lipstick is a must-try for beauty enthusiasts exploring favorite shades, offering a creamy finish and hydrating benefits to tackle dry lips while staying vibrant. Overall, it’s a great alternative to matte liquid lip.
PROS AND CONS OF THE Guerlain’s KissKiss Tender Matte Lipstick in Kiss Rouge
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Lightweight ✔️ Universal appeal | ✖️ Limited shade range |
#6: 25* Goldie Red, Rouge à Lèvres Voile Lipstick
25* Goldie Red, Rouge à Lèvres Voile Lipstick is a dream for a beauty editor, as it’s one of the best shades of red in the world of lipsticks.
This bright poppy red with subtle blue undertones delivers a true red that flatters both warm and cooler complexions. Its creamy matte liquid lip formula glides effortlessly across the lips, offering a long-wearing matte finish that stays vibrant throughout the day.
Whether enhancing your cupid’s bow or simply wearing red lipstick for a bold statement, this standout shade strikes the perfect balance between warm red and cool red, making it a top contender among the best red lipsticks.
Infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, it’s a great lipstick that offers a luxurious, long-wearing formula that doesn’t compromise on comfort. It feels light yet nourishing, addressing the common struggle of dry lips often associated with matte lipsticks.
With just one swipe, it delivers intense pigmentation and a creamy finish, proving why it’s one of the few lipsticks that beauty enthusiasts rave about. Its versatility ensures it complements a variety of skin undertones. I just wish it had a liquid formula for more hydration.
PROS AND CONS OF THE 25* Goldie Red, Rouge à Lèvres Voile Lipstick
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Enriched with hyaluronic acid ✔️ One of the best red shades ✔️ Long-wearing formula | ✖️ High price point |
WHAT Red Lipstick Shades Suits Me The Best?
The world of red lipsticks can be daunting if you don’t know the right shade for your skin tone. But don’t worry, we’re here to demystify everything about this classic piece of makeup. If you’re wondering how to find the perfect color for you, read on!
Universal color
These are red lipsticks with an equal amount of blue and orange, meaning they’re neither warm nor cool but just right. A universal shade looks good on everyone because they don’t clash with your natural undertones. Celebrity makeup artist Jamie Greenberg suggests, “For those with a neutral skin color, all shades of red are likely to complement your complexion.”
Orange-based reds
Orange-red lippies look the best with warm skin tones as they bring out the beautiful warmth of your luminous skin. An example of a great orange-red lipstick is the Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick in Orange Shot.
It boasts a vivid orange-red liquid formula, complemented with a velvety texture and a matte finish. This is one of the best liquid red lipsticks that offers long-lasting color and hydration.
blue-based red
Some red lips have blue undertones or cool-toned red, like merlot or oxblood red lipstick shades. Blue-red lipstick tones complement light and golden tan skin as well as deep and cool complexions and complexions.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl is one of the best blue-red lipsticks in the market and is known for its texture and long-lasting wear. Dragon Girl offers a vibrant blue-toned red color that suits many skin colors.
brick red
Do you have medium-toned skin but don’t quite fit the category? Or maybe you don’t burn or tan easily at the beach. That means you may have an olive-toned complexion. Reds with a rust-like undertone bring out the natural glow of those with olive complexions thanks to their earthy appeal.
What skin tones can wear red lipstick?
Every skin shade can be paired with red lipstick, although not every lipstick can work for every skin color. You have to take into consideration that every skin shade has its own red hue that compliments it.
Not only that, you have to remember that undertones also play a part in what red lipstick suits you. Keep it in mind when searching for similar shades with different undertones.
Here are a few things to note:
- Fair skin tones: Fair complexions typically look best with blue-based or cool-toned red lipstick. These shades have a bluish undertone that complements fair skin’s pink undertones.
- Light complexions: Light complexions can wear various red lipstick shades, including cool-toned reds, warm-toned reds, and neutral reds.
- Medium skin tones: Medium complexions can also wear various red lipstick shades. Generally, warm-toned reds look great on medium complexions. Makeup artists suggest that if you have warm undertones on your skin, try red lipstick with an orange or coral undertone.
- Tan skin tones: Tan complexions look stunning in warm-toned red lipsticks with orange, coral, or golden undertones. Try to avoid reds with a bluish undertone, as they can make your skin appear sallow.
- Deep skin tones: Deeper skin tones can wear a range of red lipstick shades, from deep burgundy to bright cherry red. If you have warm undertones on your skin, try red lipstick with a warm undertone, like deep brick red or cherry red. If you have cool undertones on your skin, try a blue-based red or a cool-tone red.
WHAT’S THE BEST ROUTINE FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR LIPS?
Maintaining healthy lips requires a consistent routine. Start by drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Exfoliate your lips gently once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells, then moisturize them regularly with a hydrating lip balm containing ingredients like avocado oil, shea butter, or coconut oil.
Don’t forget to protect your lips from the sun by using a lip balm with SPF and avoiding excessive licking. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals also contributes to lip health. When removing lipstick, do so gently to prevent irritation. Additionally, consider protecting your lips from harsh weather conditions and make lip care a daily habit.
With these steps, you can keep your lips soft, smooth, and moisturized.
what are the different finishes on lipstick?
Lipsticks are available in a variety of finishes, each offering a distinct look and feel.
A matte finish has a flat, non-shiny finish, providing intense color payoff and long-lasting wear, though they can feel dry on the lips. Satin lipsticks, on the other hand, offer a smooth, slightly glossy finish with rich color and comfortable wear. Glossy lipsticks provide a high-shine finish, adding a lustrous sheen and hydration to the lips.
Sheer lipsticks offer a translucent wash of color for a natural look, while cream lipsticks provide medium to full coverage with a moisturizing feel. Metallic lipsticks feature a shimmery finish for a bold, statement-making look, and frost lipsticks offer a frosted or iridescent finish with shimmer particles, adding dimension to the lips.
By choosing the right lipstick finish, you can achieve the desired effect for any occasion, whether it’s subtle and every day or bold and glamorous.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which is the best lipstick color in the world?
We can’t have the definitive best lipstick color in the world as it depends on a variety of factors. However, the most preferred color is around the shade of pink and red in either a super stay matte ink or a semi-matte formula.
How do you achieve the perfect red lip?
Achieving the perfect look involves several essential steps for a flawless and enduring finish. Begin by prepping your lips with exfoliation and hydration to make your lips smooth and hydrated. Select a red lipstick color that complements your skin color, considering whether you lean toward blue-based or orange-based hues.
Outline your lip line with a lip liner matching your chosen lipstick to define the shape and prevent feathering. Apply the lipstick, whether it be a liquid lip or a regular stick, evenly across your lip lines, starting from the center and working outward, then blot and layer for intensity.
Use a concealer and angled brush to clean up any edges for a polished look. Set the lipstick with translucent powder or a setting spray to enhance longevity.
Once perfected, consider minimal eye makeup to let your bold lips stand out. With practice and attention to detail, you can achieve a stunning look that adds glamour to any look.
What’s the difference between a bullet lipstick and a liquid lipstick?
Bullet lipsticks are solid lipsticks typically housed in a traditional twist-up tube. They have a creamy texture and offer precise application with a lip brush or directly from the bullet. Bullet lipsticks often provide a satin, matte, or glossy finish, depending on the formula.
On the other hand, liquid lipstick comes in a liquid form and is usually applied with a wand applicator. A liquid lip dries down to a matte or semi-matte finish, offering long-lasting wear and intense color payoff. Liquid lipsticks tend to be more transfer-resistant than bullet lipsticks and are favored for their ability to create sharp, defined lip looks.
Conclusion
The best part about a red lip? You really can’t go wrong with it. At worst, you’ll get a few stains on your coffee cup, but at best, you’re going to catch the eye of a few people you encounter on your day out and about.
Being a classic, matte red lipstick also comes in a variety of textures, finishes, packaging, and more, so even if you’re a picky shopper, there is bound to be a satisfying compromise for your taste – whether it’s a cream lip stain liquid lipstick, a velvet matte lip liner, or a universal red that’s highly pigmented.
Editor’s Choice
Rouge Dior Lipstick in 999
Did someone say iconic? The Dior Rouge Red Lipstick in 999 isn’t a red carpet staple for nothing.
One of the best-selling and highest-rated lipsticks from the fashion brand, the 999 has been seen on stars like Bella Hadid.
What we love about this classic red lipstick is that it’s perfectly suitable for daily wear. Its texture isn’t so much cream lipstick-y as it is liquid – some might even call it a combination of both. Plenty has described it as closer to a stain than a bullet lipstick.
Either way, it boasts a rich pigment over other liquid lipsticks. It’s transfer-proof, and it doesn’t leave you with that sticky feeling that most products have. Instead, this classic red lets you feel glamorous and comfortable.
Joey is an AB Psychology graduate of the University of St. La Salle – Bacolod. Her life’s passions include writing, film, and spending hours on end binge-watching fashion vloggers on Youtube.