Glam Slam: Makeup Mondays — How To Achieve The Perfect Red Lip

For the makeup-challenged like myself, it can be one of the most difficult beauty moves to perfect — the red lip.

“It’s all about choosing the right shade, formula and texture,” says Debra Redmond, National Beauty Director, Nordstrom. “A true red is always classic, while a richer bordeaux is a bold modern look. Formulas can range from sheer stains (our favorite is Clinique Chubby Stick in Cherry) to a shiny lacquer (YSL Glossy Stain #9), to a full coverage matte finish (NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella).”

“An easy way to determine your perfect shade is to swatch a stripe of color on your hand,” Debra suggests. “If you have a fair complexion like Anne Hathaway, a cool (pink) based red is for you. For a golden or olive complexion like Rihanna, reach for a warm-based red.

“A lot of women complain that red lipstick bleeds quickly and can be difficult to apply. Here are some easy steps to that perfect pout:

Start with soft, hydrated lips. A lip exfoliant (we love Sara Happ Lip Scrub) followed by lip balm (Caudalie Lip Conditioner is our favorite) preps your mouth for a smooth application. Apply a lip primer (Trish McEvoy Flawless Lip does the trick) on the outer edges of the lips to fill in any lines and to keep the color locked in place. Next, choose a lip pencil that matches your red. Chanel Precision Lip Definers glide right on and come in a variety of red shades. Outline the lips and apply the lip color with a brush (MAC 316 Covered Lip Brush is best). A defined, precise application is a must! Don’t forget to connect the corners at the edges of your mouth for a seamless finish. If you’ve smudged at all, don’t worry – take a flat stiff brush (like MAC 224 Small Shader Brush) and clean up the edges with concealer. Voila! You’ve got instant confidence and a brighter smile!

Before you leave the house, always check your teeth for any lipstick stains, and don’t forget to bring your lipstick and liner with you for quick touch ups!”

— Ryan Patterson