4 Tips for Rocking a Red Lip this Holiday Season

While some may claim that redheads should avoid red lipstick, we firmly disagree. Red lipstick is for everyone—you just need to find the right shade. It’s a classic choice for the holiday season, offering a festive, bold, and statement-making look. Red lipstick is also an excellent way to elevate a simple makeup routine and add an extra touch of glamour. Looking for tips on how to wear red lipstick this holiday season? We’ve got you covered!

1. Choose the right shade

Not all red lipstick is the same, and choosing the right shade can help to make or break how you feel about it. For redheads, it can sometimes feel like red competes with your hair color. That’s why we made Finally Bold® Lipstick in ‘Perfectly Red’. This is the perfect red color that will complement almost any shade of red hair.

Finally Bold® Lipstick for Redheads in Perfectly Red

2. Apply with ease

Wearing a bold, bright color means you must complete the application correctly. The trick to getting the perfect red lip application is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it flawless:

1. Prep your lips

Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to remove dry skin. This ensures a smooth surface for the lipstick.
Moisturize: Apply a light layer of lip balm to keep your lips hydrated. Let it sink in for a few minutes, then blot any excess with a tissue to avoid a slippery base.

2. Prime and conceal

Lip primer: Use a lip primer to help the color last longer and prevent feathering.
Concealer or foundation: Apply a small concealer or foundation around the edges of your lips. This helps define your lip shape and prevents bleeding, especially with bold colors like red.

3. Line your lips

Choose a matching lip liner: Pick a red lip liner that matches or is slightly darker than your lipstick shade.
Outline carefully: Start by outlining your Cupid’s bow, then move to the outer corners, meeting at the center on the bottom. Use small strokes for control.
Fill in: Use the liner to fill in your entire lip to create a base. This helps the lipstick last longer and fade evenly.

4. Apply lipstick

Choose the right formula: If you want longer wear, opt for a matte or satin formula. Glossy reds can be more prone to smudging.
Use a lip brush for precision: A lip brush allows for more precise application, especially around the edges.
Apply in thin layers: Apply a thin layer first, then blot with a tissue. Repeat with a second layer for intensity and longevity.

5. Perfect the edges

Clean up with concealer: Use a small, flat brush and a bit of concealer around the edges of your lips for a crisp, clean line.
Highlight the cupid’s bow: Add a tiny bit of highlighter or concealer to your Cupid’s bow to make your lips look fuller.

6. Set for longevity

Blot and reapply: After the first layer, blot with tissue and reapply for a more intense color.
Dust with translucent powder: For even longer wear, lightly dust translucent powder over your lips, using a tissue as a barrier. This sets the lipstick without taking away the shine or color.

With these tips, your red lips will look sharp, last longer, and make a bold statement!

3. Keep it locked in place

The last thing you want is red lipstick on your teeth and smudging at the edges. During the holidays, we eat and drink a lot, so make sure your lipstick is locked in place. Use a tissue or your finger to remove any excess lipstick that may transfer to your teeth. Then, set your lipstick in place with either a setting spray or a translucent powder.

4. Pair it perfectly

Wondering what makeup style to rock your red lipstick with? Thankfully, red has become universal in beauty, so it can be worn with most makeup. We love a red lip with a simple, neutral look and a bold, dark look like a smokey eye! Opt for something neutral and subtle if you’re worried about looking cohesive. Define the eyelashes and eyebrows to help balance out the look, and you’re good to go! Products we recommend to pair with your red lip look:

Check out our Finally Have Lashes® Enhancing Mascara