How to find the perfect red lip

A red lip can be one of the most flattering and powerful statements we can make and has been since the early 1900s and yet it is also the look that causes the most apprehension among many of our clients. So why does this alluring makeup look cause so much trepidation?

Often times our client's report that a red lip makes them feel washed out or even makes them feel too overdone. Below we've outlined some ways to choose the most flattering lip colour based on your skin tone as well as ways to wear your red lip to make you feel beautiful, confident and powerful. This is just a guide, we encourage you to explore and play with all shades of red to find your signature rouge pout!

Finding your perfect shade

Fair Skin tones

People with fair skin tend to look great with a bright pop of colour that has. Aim to choose reds that are on the cool side, meaning they have a blue undertone.

Our favourite splurge: Mac Ruby woo retro matte lipstick $24 CDN

Our favourite conserve: NYX soft matte lip cream in Amsterdam $9 CDN

Medium Skin Tones

People with medium skin tones tend to have a bit more flexibility and versatility when choosing a red lip colour. When helping a client select their shade, we will often refer to their undertone.

Olive Skin Tones:

Choose a colour with more of an orange or yellow base

Our favourite splurge: Pat Mcgrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick in "obsessed" $50 CDN

Our Favorite Conserve: Colour Riche Matte Lipcolour in "Matte At Bat" $15.86 CDN

Medium Warm Skin Tone:

Opt for shades with a brown base

Our favourite splurge: Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick in "disorderly" $32 CDN

Our Favourite Conserve: Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Lip Color $13.70 CDN

Deep Skin Tones

Deeper skin tones have a lot of variety with their red tones. Have fun and experiment with brick reds, wine and berry tones and even bright blue- reds can all look beautiful and flattering on this skin tone.

Our favourite splurge: Stila Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick in "rubino" $29 CDN

Our Favorite Conserve: Morphe Liquid Lipstick in "bloodshot" $14 CDN

Lip Liner

Red lipstick can have devastating effects on your hard-earned makeup look if the lipstick is to smear or transfers onto your skin. The easiest way to avoid this is to line the lips prior to your lipstick application. Take your time while lining, then simply colour within the lines! Voila, perfect application every time.

Looking for a little more help and guidance? NCS is here to help! You can book an individual makeup lesson with one of our educators to help not only pick your shades but master your technique! Visit us to view your options for private lessons at 50% off for the whole month of April.