Expert Reveals Perfect Red Lipstick for Every Skin Tone and Hair Colour
Red lipstick remains one of the most polarising beauty products available today. While some individuals feel incomplete without a bold statement lip, others avoid it entirely, fearing it may appear excessive, messy, or unflattering. In truth, anyone can wear red lipstick and look absolutely stunning; it is a fantastic way to inject vibrancy and sophistication into any ensemble. The crucial factor lies in selecting a shade and finish that complements your specific skin tone and lip texture—a task that is often more challenging than it sounds.
Professional Guidance for Flawless Application
To demystify this process, YOU Magazine collaborated with renowned makeup artist and pioneering YouTuber Nicola Chapman. Chapman provided her expert recommendations for choosing the perfect red lipstick, catering to everyone from beginners seeking a subtle hint of colour to those desiring a dramatic, attention-grabbing look. Her insights ensure that every woman can find a red lipstick that enhances her natural beauty.
Recommendations for Nervous Newcomers
Chapman's first piece of advice targeted a YOU reader who expressed apprehension about wearing red lipstick, admitting she had never dared to try it. Chapman suggested starting with a lighter, more approachable shade to ease into the change. She specifically endorsed Lisa Eldridge's True Velvet Lip Colour in Jazz, describing it as a velvety formula that does not require an intense application.
This product delivers a rich, gorgeous red that is slightly more subdued than shades with bluer undertones. It can be applied sheerly, ensuring it harmonises with various skin tones and does not appear overly heavy when paired with lighter foundation.
Ideal Choices for Lighter Complexions
For individuals with fair skin and coppery hair, Chapman addressed concerns that orangey reds might not be flattering. She recommended Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur in Ruby, a product that creates a rich stain effect and can be blended smoothly with a thin brush.
Chapman praised its beautiful bluer undertone, noting it is one of her personal favourites for daily wear. This shade is perfect for achieving a classic red lip that brightens the complexion and enhances the whiteness of teeth. Its cool undertones naturally complement the pink or blue undertones in cooler skin, preventing a washed-out appearance.
Perfect Picks for Warmer Skin Tones
Chapman also advised 66-year-old Julie, who had worn the same Virgin Vie lipstick for two decades. She suggested a winey shade, cautioning that anything too orangey could appear neon-like on warmer skin. Her selection was Nars' Explicit Lipstick in Desirous, a creamy and hydrating formula.
This lipstick offers nourishment and longevity, while its burgundy off-red tone suits warmer skin tones beautifully without looking harsh or extreme.
Excellent Options for Ashy Blondes
Upon meeting 62-year-old Rachel, Chapman immediately identified an orangey-red as the ideal shade. This choice adds warmth to yellow skin undertones, complements ashy blonde hair, and provides definition without overpowering, unlike deeper berry or wine shades.
Chapman selected Mac's MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick in Lady Danger, highlighting its recent reformulation to be creamier while maintaining a matte, long-wearing finish. She enthusiastically approved of the result, a sentiment echoed by Rachel's husband.
These expert recommendations empower women of all ages and complexions to confidently embrace red lipstick, transforming it from a daunting choice into a versatile and flattering beauty staple.
