21 Best Red Lipsticks For Every Skin Tone: From Warm to Cool

Red lipsticks can pull together pretty much any makeup look. They're classic and versatile, since a gorgeous red shade just screams alluring, seductive, festive, outspoken, rebellious, bold, loud and ultra-chic all at once. That's a lot of personality from just one lipstick bullet.

We're firm believers that red lipstick is one of the best beauty products that can instantly make you feel more powerful and put-together in just one quick swipe. Trust us – even if you don't change anything else about your makeup routine, adding a strong red lip can instantly revamp the whole look. Gwyneth Paltrow was onto something when she said: "Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kickass red lipstick."

MAC Retro Matte Lipstick

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution

Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Colour

Best red lipsticks at a glance – our top picks

  • Best classic red lipstick: MAC Retro Matte Lipstick, £20, LookFantastic
  • Best red lipstick for dark skin tones: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution, £26, Charlotte Tilbury
  • Best matte red lipstick: Pat McGrath Labs MatteTrance Lipstick, £36, Cult Beauty
  • Best liquid red lipstick: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Colour, £22, Boots
  • Since red lipsticks are timeless, you can get your hands on all the trusted classics and newer launches all year long. Sure, most seasoned red-lip wearers already know the power a rouge lip holds. But if you haven't found your match yet, we have some tips from our beauty editors and experts alike. “Generally, we find that blue-toned reds work best on skin with cooler undertones, while warmer skin can get away with most shades of red, from orange hues to intense wine tones,” explains Emolyne Ramlov, founder of Emolyne Beauty.

    The best part is that when it comes to red lipsticks, there are no rules. “Skin tone differs so immensely from person to person, but also through the seasons, which people often forget, and who are we to say if you can or can’t wear a shade that you love? That’s why we like to say, ‘Your shade your rules'. Confidence is the key to looking striking in any shade.” adds Emolyne.

    To help you decide, we've put together a full list of the best red lipsticks available, including budget options, cult classics and glam new launches to suit every preference and skin tone. And although we've focused on red shades this time round, we tried our best to ensure that we include a range of different formulas, meaning there'll be something in this edit for everyone.

    Looking for more beauty products? Why not try a nourishing lip balm with a hint of tint, or a dewy clear lip gloss? And if you're looking to restock on all your favourite makeup and skincare products, check out our guides for the best mascara, best liquid eyeliner and best eyeshadow palettes.

    For more shoppable beauty content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.

    Scroll for our pick of the best red lipsticks to add to cart immediately.

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