Right Said Red: The Right Red Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

A red lip is probably one of the most iconic beauty looks, and it’s also one of the hardest to get right. You see, when it comes to picking out a scarlet hue, one has to first consider skin tone. After you’ve got that figured out, you also need to determine what your undertone is. Here, we give you a foolproof way to find that perfect red for you!

First, it’s important to determine what your undertone is. Here’s a quick way to find out:

Blue or purple veins indicate a cool (pink) undertone. If you burn easily under the sun, this is another sign that you likely have cool-toned skin.

Green veins indicate a warm (yellow) undertone. If you tan easily in the sun, this is another sign that you likely have warm-toned skin.

Next, now that you know your undertone, it’s time to pick a lipstick that perfectly complements your natural skin tone:

Fair

If your skin tone leans on the porcelain, almost paper-white end of the spectrum (think Kris Aquino), chances are, you have a pink-based undertone. To really compliment your skin tone, use blue-based reds or pink-based reds such as raspberry. These hues will highlight the pink tones in your complexion and give your smile high wattage glow.

We suggest: Milani Amore Matte Lip Creme 22, P450

Light

A light complexion shouldn’t be confused with a fair skin tone as this usually is just a shade or two darker, and has a yellow-based undertone. Orange-based reds will work best for you as these will pick up the golden undertones and brighten your complexion.

We suggest: Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Gradation in Coral, P349

Medium

If your complexion is on the medium side, you’ll benefit orange-based red as well. It’ll look especially great in the summer against sun-kissed skin!

We suggest: Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Mattes in Rosy Orange, P299

Olive

Olive skin tones are known to have a yellow-green undertone that tans effortlessly. An earthy or rust-colored red will perfectly complement your warm skin tone.

We suggest: Besame Lipstick in Red Velvet, P1295

Caramel

A caramel skin tone will look sensational with a true cherry red lip. This hue will pick up the warmth in your skin tone and really brighten your smile.

We suggest: Inglot Lip Tint Matte #12, P1093

Golden or Deep

Those with this dark skin tone can have lots of fun playing with bright, highly-pigmented reds when it comes to choosing a red lipstick. For the ultimate bold look, try a true red.

We suggest: L.A.Colors Matte Lipstick, P119