Best Red Lipsticks

What to Look for in Red Lipsticks

Finding the perfect red lipstick can elevate your makeup routine and boost your confidence. Here are key aspects to consider when shopping for a red lip color.

1. Undertone

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Red lipsticks come in various undertones—blue, orange, or neutral. Choose a shade that complements your skin’s undertone: blue-based reds flatter cooler tones, while orange-based reds suit warmer complexions.

2. Finish

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From matte and satin to glossy and sheer, the finish of your lipstick affects both its appearance and wear time. Matte formulas offer bold, long-lasting color, while glossy or satin finishes provide hydration and shine.

3. Pigmentation & Coverage

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Highly pigmented formulas deliver intense color in one swipe, whereas sheer options offer a more subtle look. Consider how bold or buildable you want your red lipstick to be.

4. Longevity & Comfort

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Look for long-wearing formulas that resist smudging and fading, but also ensure they feel comfortable throughout the day. Hydrating ingredients like vitamin E or oils can help keep lips soft and prevent dryness.

  1. 1
    Lip Color Matte Lipstick

    Tom Ford

    Lip Color Matte Lipstick

    $62
    1,494 REVIEWS
    Ultra-pigmented with a matte finish, this lipstick delivers rich color. 
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  2. 2
    Powermatte Lipstick

    Nars

    Powermatte Lipstick

    $36
    1,057 REVIEWS
    High-intensity matte formula that glides on bold color with 10-hour wear.
    View full details
  3. 3
    Luxe Lipstick

    Bobbi Brown

    Luxe Lipstick

    $45
    158 REVIEWS
    Skincare-infused statement lip color with a rich satin finish—for lips that feel as Luxe as they look.
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  4. 4
    MatteTrance Lipstick

    Pat McGrath Labs

    MatteTrance Lipstick

    $39
    35 REVIEWS
    A richly pigmented, lightweight lipstick that adorns lips in a modern, matte finish.
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  5. 5
    Petal Soft Lip

    Laura Mercier

    Petal Soft Lip

    $36
    704 REVIEWS
    A sheer matte lip color that makes your lips petal-soft delivering 12 hours of weightless wear and 24 hours of lip softening hydration.
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  6. 6
    Powermatte Lip Pigment

    Nars

    Powermatte Lip Pigment

    $32
    570 REVIEWS
    A highly pigmented, full coverage liquid lipstick that provides long-lasting, comfortable matte color.
    View full details
  7. 7
    Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick

    Hourglass

    Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick

    $39
    99 REVIEWS
    Each ultra slim refillable lipstick delivers saturated, longwearing color with a satin finish.
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  8. 8
    Le Phyto Rouge

    Sisley Paris

    Le Phyto Rouge

    $78
    94 REVIEWS
    An intense lipstick combined with skin care to provide a balm-like sensation.
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  9. 9
    Phyto-Rouge Shine Refill

    Sisley Paris

    Phyto-Rouge Shine Refill

    $52
    20 REVIEWS
    Hydrating and plumping lip balm
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  10. 10
    Sheer Lip Color

    Trish McEvoy

    Sheer Lip Color

    $33
    18 REVIEWS
    Revolutionary long-wear lip formula designed to deliver creamy color with staying power and advanced lip care in one smooth-gliding bullet.
    View full details

What to Look for in Red Lipsticks

Finding the perfect red lipstick can elevate your makeup routine and boost your confidence. Here are key aspects to consider when shopping for a red lip color.

1. Undertone

Citrus catapult arrow

Red lipsticks come in various undertones—blue, orange, or neutral. Choose a shade that complements your skin’s undertone: blue-based reds flatter cooler tones, while orange-based reds suit warmer complexions.

2. Finish

Citrus catapult arrow

From matte and satin to glossy and sheer, the finish of your lipstick affects both its appearance and wear time. Matte formulas offer bold, long-lasting color, while glossy or satin finishes provide hydration and shine.

3. Pigmentation & Coverage

Citrus catapult arrow

Highly pigmented formulas deliver intense color in one swipe, whereas sheer options offer a more subtle look. Consider how bold or buildable you want your red lipstick to be.

4. Longevity & Comfort

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for long-wearing formulas that resist smudging and fading, but also ensure they feel comfortable throughout the day. Hydrating ingredients like vitamin E or oils can help keep lips soft and prevent dryness.

Looking to make a bold statement with the perfect red lipstick? Look no further! Our curated selection of the best red lipsticks is here to help you find your new go-to shade. Each product featured on this page has been carefully ranked based on user review ratings, ensuring that you'll be getting top-quality options that have already won over countless beauty enthusiasts. Whether you're after a classic crimson, a fiery orange-red, or a deep burgundy, these top-rated red lipsticks are sure to add a pop of color and confidence to your makeup look.

FAQ

What undertones should I look for when choosing a red lipstick? + -

When selecting a red lipstick, consider your skin's undertone. Cool undertones pair well with blue-based reds, while warm undertones are complemented by orange or brick-red shades. Neutral undertones can often wear both types beautifully.

How can I make my red lipstick last longer throughout the day? + -

To extend the wear of your red lipstick, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips. Use a lip liner to outline and fill in your lips, then apply the lipstick. Blot with tissue and add a second layer for extra longevity.

What is the difference between matte and satin red lipsticks? + -

Matte red lipsticks offer a flat, non-shiny finish and tend to be long-wearing, while satin formulas provide a subtle sheen and feel more hydrating on the lips. Your choice depends on your preferred look and comfort.

Can I wear red lipstick during the day or is it only suitable for evening looks? + -

Red lipstick can be worn both during the day and at night. For daytime, opt for softer or sheer reds; for evening, bold or deeper reds create a dramatic effect. It's all about personal style and confidence.

How do I prevent red lipstick from feathering or bleeding? + -

To prevent feathering, use a lip liner to define your lips and create a barrier. Applying a bit of concealer around the edges of your lips can also help keep the color in place.