I am well aware that red lipstick is certainly not new when it comes to makeup trends. In fact some say that women wore our favourite hue even back in the 16th century. This is quite a feat, considering the fact that the cosmetic industry is typically home to ever changing fads. I do think it’s prevalence, as a colour of choice for women, is due to the fact that it has an amazing impact on the colouring of one’s face and it has an amazing way of making a woman feel graceful and elegant. However, there are SO many choices when it comes to finishes, undertones, texture and applications methods. Here are a few tips I have learnt along the way.
1) Prep Away:
Like with most makeup, your lipstick will only look as good as the skin that is underneath. Therefore, to ensure that the colour looks soft and smooth, I recommend de-flaking your lips with a scrub. Sara Happ makes a great one that is gentle, efficient, and easy to use.
2)Pick Your Prize:
Matte? Glossy? Cream? Stain? Undertone Colour? There are so many choices when it comes to picking a red lipstick. If you are not quite certain which one is right for you, then you are more than welcome to head on down to LUX Beauty Boutique for help. Lauren and I would be more than happy to assist you with choosing a product that works with your skin colouring, lifestyle and personal preferences.
3) The Great Liner Debate:
You might be asking yourself, “When I wear lipstick, do I need to use a lip liner?” If you are wearing a lighter coloured lipstick or a sheer lipgloss, I don’t think it’s really necessary. However, when it comes to red lipstick, I do recommend it. Lipliner can help to reduce the chance of the colour ‘bleeding’ outside of your lips and make the lipstick last longer. Just make sure that the colours of the lipstick and liner match closely.
4) Time to Apply
If you have chosen to use a lip liner, this is your first step. First line the perimeter of your lips with the colour and then fill in the rest of your lips. As I said, this helps to reduce the chance of the colour ‘bleeding’ outside of your lips and make the lipstick last longer.
Next, it’s time to apply the lip stick. When it comes to red lipstick, I find using a lipstick brush makes the job just a little bit easier. It also helps to keep the colour within the perimeter of your lips and to not go outside of the lines. Beaute makes a great one.
Finally, dip a cotton swab in makeup remover and run it around the outside of your lips to remove any wayward colour.