Hair + Beauty

Ask a Redhead: Can I Wear Lipstick with My Red Hair?

Be Confident. Be Bold.

lipstick

Every week, we put out a call for your redhead questions. This gives you a chance to get advice or input from our team of redheads. From beauty and fashion to lifestyle, redheads are in a unique boat, and we want to help make this community a place where you can turn for all your redhead needs. 

This week we’re answering a question we get pretty often…“I feel like I can’t wear lipstick with my hair because any shade will clash. Help! How can I start?” This is such a common question from redheads, and we have the answers!

Redheads often face two primary considerations when selecting lipstick: choosing shades that complement both their hair color and skin tone. Since red hair varies in hue, and skin tones differ from person to person, a single guideline may not apply universally. However, we can offer some helpful tips to guide you in finding the perfect lipstick.

Understand your style

If you’re new to lipstick, the variety of options can feel overwhelming. Start by browsing Pinterest to explore makeup styles that resemble your own. Pay attention to the types of lipsticks featured—are they bold, vibrant shades, subtle neutrals, or dark, dramatic hues? While there’s no rule limiting you to just one style, this can serve as a helpful starting point in discovering what works best for you.

Know your undertones

When selecting a lipstick shade, understanding your undertones can be incredibly helpful. Individuals with cool undertones may find that deep berry pinks, blue-toned reds, and mauve shades complement their complexion. Those with warm undertones may prefer corals, peachy pinks, warm reds, and nude tones for a harmonious look.

To determine your undertone as a redhead, examine the veins on the inside of your wrist in natural light. If they appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones, while greenish veins suggest warm undertones. If you’re uncertain, you may have a neutral undertone. Another method is to hold both gold and silver jewelry against your skin; gold typically complements warm undertones, while silver enhances cool tones. Lastly, consider how your skin reacts to the sun: individuals with cool undertones often burn easily, whereas those with warm undertones may tan slightly.

Stick to the classics

There are three “classic” lipstick shades that tend to suit everyone: nude, pink and red. However, within each color family, there are various shades, so the key is to select the one that best complements your hair and skin tone. Understanding your personal style will help guide you in choosing the right color, while knowing your undertones and overall coloring will ensure you find the most flattering shade.

Finding the perfect lipstick is something lots of redheads struggle with, which is why we created Finally Bold®. We wanted lipstick in shades that redheads could rely on and use as staples in their makeup collection. 

Want your redhead question answered? Find us @howtobearedhead on Instagram and Facebook and look for the Ask a Redhead question box!

Rock it like a Redhead!

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