10 Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Red Lipstick

Lipstick is an essential part of almost every woman’s daily makeup routine.  However, many women shy away from the red tones they find in the cosmetic aisle. Fortunately, you can pull off those brave shades with a little lipstick know-how. Here are ten dos and don’ts of wearing red lipstick:

1. Wear darker foundation

If you’re going to go bold with your lip color, you’ve got to have a complementary backdrop for your face.  For those with lighter skin tones, it’s a good idea to choose foundations that will provide darker, olive bases.  Red lips can be too much of a contrast against pale skin.  The darker your lips are, the darker your foundation should be.

2. Don’t be afraid to blend different colors

Do you like the look of red lipstick, but think it might be too loud for you?  There’s an easy solution: customize your shade.  Simply take a lighter hue like coral or mauve and blend it with that rose or burgundy you’ve been eyeing. The result will be a more muted tone that nearly anyone will be comfortable wearing.

3. Use it for the right occasion

While everyone loves red, luscious lips, the look isn’t appropriate for every social situation.  Some of the deeper shades can be a little jarring to people you run into at the gym or the kids’ soccer game.  Likewise, you want everyone to be listening to your business proposal at that morning office meeting, not staring at your lips.  Only paint your kisser red when you know you’re dealing with a fun, playful atmosphere, such as a night out with the girls. Then, you’ll be one step ahead in painting the town red!