5 min read
Beauty trends may come and go, but the best red lipsticks are always in style. The classic makeup product is surprisingly versatile, with different finishes and pigments to suit every skin tone. According to makeup artist Hayley Kassel, one swipe is all it takes to completely transform your look.
“Red lipstick is usually thought of as true classic glamour,” Kassel says. “Add a red lip to an overall neutral makeup and boom. It’s a whole new look with a bold statement lip.” Kassel, who has worked on campaigns for ColourPop and Fenty Beauty, says makeup artists love applying red lipstick when they’re asked to experiment on set. “Red lipstick instantly draws attention and is a fun way to make a look feel rebellious and dramatic or timeless and elegant.”
As a red lip-obsessed beauty editor, I love how it instantly elevates my makeup. Similar to an accessory, a red lipstick adds the perfect pop of color and touch of confidence. The best formulas are non-drying, long-lasting, and rich in pigment, making it easy to achieve that iconic bold color.
With so many options available, I shared my all-time favorites—along with Kassel’s pro picks—to help narrow down the best of the best. From makeup artist approved-formulas to a universal shade that looks good on everyone, see the best red lipsticks below.
Leave it to Danessa Myricks to create a universal red that’s flattering for all. Kassel is a huge fan of this long-lasting waterproof formula, thanks to its buildable coverage and a matte finish. Bonus: It can also be used on the cheeks and eyes.
Our expert says: “This is a go-to in my kit when I need a red lip that I know will pack a punch and last,” says Kassel. “It’s super pigmented, very long-lasting, and looks good on everyone! Since it is a liquid consistency, you just need to be diligent when putting this on. Take your time when applying, and have a Q-tip ready just in case you have a slip up on the lip edges so you can correct it fast, because when this dries down, it’s down!”—HK
If you’re new to red lipstick, this creamy matte formula is fool-proof. Made with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, it glides onto lips, delivering rich pigment that doesn’t dry out lips over time. The packaging is equally stunning, featuring an art deco cap and the iconic Louboutin stiletto point.
Our expert says: “It’s a classic red shade that mimics the iconic red under the heel that Christian Louboutin is known for. Very easy to apply, and I love a matte lip that has more of a velvety texture to it than a drying finish.”—HK
“Another favorite red to use on set! These crayons can easily be used as lip liners as well because of their shape,” says Kassel. Use this versatile pencil just as a lip liner or fill-in all over for rich matte color. “I love this chubby crayon lipstick that is so easy to apply and keeps your lips hydrated with longwear pigment,” says Kassel, courtesy of rosehip oil, hyaluronic acid, and seaweed extract that work together to deliver long-lasting hydration and a weightless feel on lips.
A customer says: “This lip crayon has a nice smooth texture. The color is muted yet has some richness and depth. The texture feels good and blends well. I either line with it or use it on all of my lips with a little clear gloss on top. It wears well and does not settle in dry lines.”
This hybrid product combines the high-shine of a lipgloss with the rich pigment of a lipstick. The glossy sheen is thanks to nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, shea butter, squalane, kiwi oil, which work to condition lips.
Our expert says: “A gloss and lipstick combo, it’s a high-shine pigmented red that looks incredible by itself or on top of another base lipstick color to really amp up the vibrancy,” says Kassel. “An absolute favorite of mine when I want red lips that look almost latex like as a finish.”
I was lucky enough to have the makeup king himself, Patrick Ta, apply this cherry red to my lips. I loved how bright and punchy this red is—I feel like it lights up my whole face when I put it on. You can pair it with the matching liner, but I’ve found that directly from the bullet also has good precision. The color is really flattering on my warm neutral skin tone.
Our expert says: “I have never had a lipstick apply with such ease. And it is red, and I didn’t even have trouble applying it (I’m new at red lipstick). Gorgeous color, comfortable, non-drying, all that is good.”—HK
French-girl beauty in a tube, one swipe of this luxurious red lipstick delivers bold red color and rich hydration. Formulated with shea butter, jojoba oil, and castor oil, your lips will feel comfortable and nourished throughout the day.
An ELLE contributor says: “This is my go-to classic red. The color has beautiful depth and the formula lasts through all the talking, eating, and sipping. Thanks to its power combo of nourishing skin care ingredients, you get minimal flakes or dryness. A perfect red for anyone who wants to emulate the French girl beauty look.”—Ariana Yaptangco, contributing beauty writer
If you’re looking for a red lipstick that’s a bit more subtle, try a balm-like formula with buildable coverage. One coat will give you a sheer kiss of color that gives your lips a just-bitten look. Best of all, it acts like a lip balm with replenishing ingredients like squalane and hyaluronic acid to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
An ELLE contributor says: “When I want a subtle wash of color, I pick up this slim lipstick. I love the sheer finish, which looks and feels effortless. My lips are buttery soft all day and it’s easy to reapply without a mirror. The small and compact packaging makes it easy to slip into your tiniest clutch or bag.”—AY
What’s the best way to apply red lipstick?
For clean lines and color that lasts, you’ll want to start with using a lip liner. “Applying lip liner before red lipstick helps create a clean outline that acts like a stencil for filling in the color,” says Kassel. “Since bold red lipstick is often one of the final steps in a makeup routine, it can feel intimidating because mistakes are more noticeable. Outlining your lips first, either with a matching lip liner or with the lipstick itself, makes the application much easier and more precise.”
How do I make red lipstick last?
Kassel has a pro tip for making your red lipstick last all day long. “A fool-proof way is to lightly go over the first coat with powder,” she says. “Place a tissue over your lips, and with a brush dab over your lips with powder. This should really help lock in that pigment. After applying the powder, then go in with a second coat of red to really amp up the color.”
What’s the best red lipstick for my skin tone?
First, you’ll want to start by identifying your undertones. “The old tried and true wrist test can help,” says Kassel. Look at the under side of your wrist. If your skin has blue, pink ,or red, you have a cool skin tone. If you have more golden, yellow, or peach color, you are a warm skin tone. Sometimes people have a mix of both blue tone and yellow tone, and that makes you neutral. If your skin has more of a greenish or grey-ish tint, that’s an olive skin tone.”
Once you find your skin tone, follow Kassel’s guide below:
Fair: Red lipsticks with blue and purple (cool) undertones are best for fair skin. These look great without washing out lighter skin complexions. Ruby, berry, cherry shades look amazing.
Medium: Red lipsticks with warm, orange-based, or brick-red undertones complement golden and olive skin.
Deep: Red lipsticks that have a rich highly pigmented color look amazing on deeper skin. Deep berries, brick red, or wine really work well.
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How We Test
For this piece, beauty contributor Ariana Yaptangco tested her favorite red lipsticks and spoke to professional makeup artist Hayley Kassel for her best tips and product recommendations.