Red Lip Service:

How to Find the Best Red Lip for Your Skin Tone

Red lipstick is the cosmetic equivalent of a LBD: timeless yet sexy, classic but sure to turn heads. But just like finding that perfect form-fitting frock, discovering your perfect crimson hue takes some effort. I’m here to take the trial and error out of the process of finding the absolute ideal ruby hue for you.

It’s all about choosing the red right for your complexion. Rosy cheeks call for a red with blue undertones, while tan, olive and darker skin colors with golden undertones should aim for shades with orange-y nuances. Read on for my top picks for red lipcolor for all!

Cool Skin Tones

From just-bitten raspberry to wine-stained merlot and pure garnet, cool skin tones sparkle with a flash of true-blue red on the lips. Think Snow White with her creamy complexion, rosy cheeks and ruby-red pucker biting into that poisoned apple!

My Picks: MAC’s Ruby Woo, NARS Dragon Girl, Hourglass Opaque Rouge, Revlon Fire & Ice

Warm Skin Tones
Juicy tangerine, bright coral and golden berry turn yellow-toned complexions sun kissed; think tropical oranges and burgundies with metallic flecks to pump up your pout.
My Picks: Tom Ford Wild Ginger, Youngblood Tangelo Lipstick, MAC Red

Neutrals
Not sure of your skin’s undertone? Reach for a true cherry red or a versatile plum that can skew either warm or cool based on your complexion and the rest of your makeup.
My Picks: Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip in Plum Brandy, NYX Cosmetics Butter Lipsticks in Big Cherry, Christian Dior Rouge Dior in Rouge Zinnia