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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. It makes a bold statement and the perfect shade can look good on almost anyone. But finding the best red lipstick amidst 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, fair skin, 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 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 red lip look.
The bullet matte 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 red lip WILL make heads turn!
If you’re planning on going to a dinner party or a function, 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 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 lip 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: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Fire & Ice
Fire and ice may clash, but in lipstick, cool and warm make an unbeatable pair. The Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick is our pick for the best lipstick anyone with a warm skin tone can wear. This lippie has both warm and cool undertones (hence the name), but it leans towards coral, which makes it ideal for those who have yellow-toned skin, a.k.a. many of us Filipinas.
Okay, now for the texture. We can’t get enough of its flat cream finish – there’s no shimmer nor frost, which you’ll find in many older lipstick formulas. But this isn’t a matte lipstick either. In fact, this satin lipstick looks a little glossy.
Whether you’re going for a satin finish, stain tint, or a bold opaque color, the Super Lustrous has your back. Just one swipe reveals a sheer tint that freshens up your otherwise bare face; in two-three, you can build a solid hue that transforms your glam look.
PROS AND CONS OF THE REVLON FIRE & ICE RED LIPSTICK
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Comfortable satin finish ✔️ Offers moderate hydration ✔️ Versatile and buildable color ✔️ Can be a lip stain or an opaque red ✔️ Relatively affordable | ✖️ Smudges after eating |
#6: Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
Maybelline’s Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is celebrated in the beauty community for its enduring lightweight formula and vivid color payoff as a drugstore red lipstick brand.
This lipstick’s remarkable staying power ensures that the lip color remains intact for hours without smudging or fading, even during meals or drinks. The richly pigmented formula offers intense hues in the best red lipstick shades, suitable for various preferences and occasions.
While some individuals may find it drying, which is just the nature of this type of lipstick, we noted that we did not find it excessively drying or uncomfortable. The liquid lipstick remained lightweight and comfortable on the lips while providing a matte finish that exudes sophistication.
The precise applicator facilitates easy application, creating clean lines without the need for a lip liner. Its slim tube design makes it convenient for on-the-go touch-ups. Overall, the Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in its best bright red shade and one of our favorite shades, Ambitious, is a standout choice for matte lip enthusiasts seeking enduring, bold color.
PROS AND CONS OF THE MAYBELLINE SUPERSTAY MATTE INK LIQUID LIPSTICK
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Long-lasting formula ✔️ Vibrant color payoff ✔️ Smudge-proof and transfer-resistant ✔️ Affordable with many shade choices | ✖️ Can feel slightly drying on some lips ✖️ May emphasize lip lines or texture |
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 skin tones 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 creamy 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 keep in mind that undertones also play a part in what red lipstick suits you.
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 skin tones: 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 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 have a creamy texture, providing 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:
What is the most attractive lipstick?
Even though our guide is as comprehensive as it gets, we’ve still got a few runners-up that didn’t quite make it to the top. So if you can’t get enough of these red shades, here are a few more to add to your collection:
- Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture. This crimson red makes a bold statement – we expect nothing less from Yves Saint Laurent.
- Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain. Sephora has hidden gems, and this cream-slash stain is perfect for a low-key look. They have one of the best red lipstick shades to cover all complexions.
- Makeup For Ever Rouge Artists. In our opinion, the best cherry red lipstick feels super good on our lips.
Which red color lipstick is best?
The best red lipstick is subjective, as it depends on the tone of your skin, undertone, outfit, and finishes. But, the ones that are acclaimed as the best red lipstick color are the “Universal” lipsticks like:
- Ruby Woo by MAC Cosmetics
- Dragon Girl by NARS
- Fire & Ice by Revlon
- Pirate by Coco Chanel
They offer a deep red finish that works in lighter complexions or darker skin tones.
Is Ruby Woo the best red lipstick?
Ruby Woo by MAC Cosmetics is an iconic matte red lipstick shade that has been praised by many makeup enthusiasts and professionals. It is considered one of the best matte lipsticks if you’re going for a classic look.
Ruby Woo has earned a reputation as a cult favorite due to its versatility and ability to flatter a wide range of complexions. Its long-wearing formula and vivid color payoff also make it a popular choice for special events and photoshoots.
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.
What are the best lipsticks with a matte finish?
Several brands offer excellent matte lipsticks known for their long-lasting wear and vibrant colors. Some of the best options include:
- MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick: Known for its intense pigmentation and ultra-matte finish, MAC Retro Matte Lipstick offers a wide range of shades in a long-lasting formula.
- Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick: Maybelline’s Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick is celebrated for its exceptional staying power, intense color payoff, and comfortable matte finish.
- Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color: Fenty Beauty’s Stunna Lip Paint offers a weightless matte finish with a high-impact color that lasts for hours without feathering or fading.
- NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment: NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment features a lightweight, matte formula that delivers intense color in a single swipe. It’s long-wearing and comfortable to wear throughout the day.
- Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick: Kat Von D’s Everlasting Liquid Lipstick is renowned for its long-lasting, transfer-resistant formula and wide range of bold, matte shades.
- NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream combines the longevity of matte lipstick with the smooth application of a lip cream. It offers a velvet matte finish in a variety of shades.
- Anastasia Beverly Hills Matte Lipstick: Anastasia Beverly Hills Matte Lipstick provides rich, opaque color in a comfortable matte finish. It’s highly pigmented and long-lasting, perfect for creating bold lip looks.
- NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil: This one is a game-changer for matte lip enthusiasts. Popular among celebrities like Taylor Swift, this product offers a creamy formula that glides on smoothly and sets to a luxurious velvety finish. With its wide range of shades and long-lasting wear, it’s a must-have for anyone seeking bold, statement-making lips.
What are the best red lipsticks with a satin finish?
Several brands are highly acclaimed for their satin red lipsticks for their smooth texture and vibrant color. Here are some top options:
- NARS Audacious Lipstick in Rita: Known for its richly pigmented formula and creamy texture, NARS Audacious Lipstick in Rita offers a satin finish with a classic red hue.
- MAC Cosmetics Satin Lipstick in Russian Red: MAC’s Russian Red is an iconic satin lipstick known for its intense color payoff and comfortable wear, making it a favorite among makeup enthusiasts.
- Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Red Carpet Red: Despite its name, Charlotte Tilbury’s Red Carpet Red offers a satin finish with a velvety texture, providing a glamorous red lip look.
- Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color in Retro Red: Bobbi Brown’s Luxe Lip Color in Retro Red delivers a satin finish with a hydrating formula that glides on smoothly, offering long-lasting color and comfort.
- Tom Ford Lip Color Satin Matte in Flame: Tom Ford’s Lip Color Satin Matte in Flame is a luxurious lipstick with a satin matte finish, providing intense color and a sophisticated look.
- Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick in Le Rouge: YSL’s Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick in Le Rouge offers a satin finish with a creamy texture and vibrant red color, perfect for creating a bold statement lip.
- Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Bad Blood: Urban Decay’s Vice Lipstick in Bad Blood features a satin finish with a comfortable, hydrating formula and a rich, deep red shade.
These red lipsticks with a satin finish are praised for their high-quality formulas, long-lasting wear, and stunning shades, making them excellent choices for achieving a satin red lip look.
How do you achieve the perfect red lip?
Achieving the perfect red lip 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 red lip 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.
