These Are The Best Red Lipsticks If You Have Fair Skin
Kiselev Andrey Valerevich/Shutterstock By Lauren Waters/Aug. 22, 2022 4:47 pm EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. A red lip is one of the most classic fashion statements you can assert with your makeup. Red lipstick has a long history, and because folks have been sporting it for more than 5,000 years, it’s safe to say that this is not a trend that’s ever likely to go away (via Bésame Cosmetics).
Still, just because something is classic doesn’t mean that it’s easy to pull off, and this is certainly the case for a red lip. The line between looking like Taylor Swift’s “Red” album cover and Ronald McDonald is a thin one. This is especially true for those of us with particularly light complexions. The contrast of red lipstick against fair skin can really pack a punch, and it can be both high risk and high reward. Whether you pull off your red lip look depends entirely on the shade of lipstick you choose (via Poor Little It Girl). Luckily, you don’t have to try every lipstick on the market to find your perfect shade of red; we’ve compiled the shades of red that will look best on you if your complexion is on the light side.
How we selected
Masson/Shutterstock
We all want to find that perfect go-to lipstick without sampling all of them. Our goal when finding the best shades of red for folks with fair skin was to stay away from a hue that creates a contrast that’s too stark and has the right undertones for fair complexions.
Still, just because our complexion narrows down our options doesn’t mean that lipstick beggars can’t be choosers. We all still have wants and needs in our makeup that extend past just finding a shade that looks nice against our skin. So, not only did we find the best red lip colors for fair skin, but we made sure to find an option that fills each of the most common needs folks have when searching for a lip shade. Plus, since we know no one wants to spend a fortune on makeup when there are cheaper options out there, all of our picks are under $25 and don’t skimp on quality.
Best glossy shade
Ulta Beauty
We all know that glossy lips have been having a moment for the past few years, and opting for a color with some gloss can be an especially good pick for people who are prone to chapped, dry lips (via L’Oréal USA.) If you’re looking for a glossy red option, our pick is Benefit Cosmetics’ California Kissin’ ColorBalm Moisturizing Lip Balm. What we love about this option is that, as the title says, it’s actually a lip balm rather than a lipstick. Because of this, it’s glossy without that all-too-common sticky factor, and it keeps your lips plump and full of moisture with loads of healthy ingredients like hyaluronic acid and mango butter.
It’s also one of the most pigmented lip balms you’ll ever encounter, which means that even though it’s got all the benefits (no pun intended) of a lip balm, it also competes with other red lipsticks in terms of saturation. One reviewer who uses our shade of choice, Ruby, calls it “super pigmented also hydrating!… my go to lippie so pretty!” Buy the California Kissin’ ColorBalm Moisturizing Lip Balm by Benefit Cosmetics in Ruby from Ulta Beauty for $21.00. Applicator: Stick | Finish: Glossy
Best staying power
ColourPop
If you’re looking for long-lasting color and cutting down on touch-up time, we’ve got the red lipstick for you. ColourPop LippieStix will make your lipstick application time fly by. Not only will it stay put all day and night, but it’s also designed to eliminate the need for lip liner, so you can skip one whole (very difficult) step of your makeup routine. This red is striking and bold on fair skin, and it will really make your makeup stand out. As one review says, “This red pops! Smooth application.”
This super pigmented shade will be sure to draw attention to your pout, and it also feels creamy and soft on your lips. Plus, it won’t dry your lips out and is filled with lots of good things, like shea butter and vitamin E. Buy the ColourPop LippieStix in Trust Me from ColourPop for $6.00. Applicator: Stick | Finish: Matte
These Are The Best Red Lipsticks If You Have Fair Skin
Kiselev Andrey Valerevich/Shutterstock
By Lauren Waters/Aug. 22, 2022 4:47 pm EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. A red lip is one of the most classic fashion statements you can assert with your makeup. Red lipstick has a long history, and because folks have been sporting it for more than 5,000 years, it’s safe to say that this is not a trend that’s ever likely to go away (via Bésame Cosmetics).
Still, just because something is classic doesn’t mean that it’s easy to pull off, and this is certainly the case for a red lip. The line between looking like Taylor Swift’s “Red” album cover and Ronald McDonald is a thin one. This is especially true for those of us with particularly light complexions. The contrast of red lipstick against fair skin can really pack a punch, and it can be both high risk and high reward. Whether you pull off your red lip look depends entirely on the shade of lipstick you choose (via Poor Little It Girl). Luckily, you don’t have to try every lipstick on the market to find your perfect shade of red; we’ve compiled the shades of red that will look best on you if your complexion is on the light side.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
Still, just because something is classic doesn’t mean that it’s easy to pull off, and this is certainly the case for a red lip. The line between looking like Taylor Swift’s “Red” album cover and Ronald McDonald is a thin one. This is especially true for those of us with particularly light complexions. The contrast of red lipstick against fair skin can really pack a punch, and it can be both high risk and high reward. Whether you pull off your red lip look depends entirely on the shade of lipstick you choose (via Poor Little It Girl). Luckily, you don’t have to try every lipstick on the market to find your perfect shade of red; we’ve compiled the shades of red that will look best on you if your complexion is on the light side.
How we selected
Masson/Shutterstock
We all want to find that perfect go-to lipstick without sampling all of them. Our goal when finding the best shades of red for folks with fair skin was to stay away from a hue that creates a contrast that’s too stark and has the right undertones for fair complexions.
Still, just because our complexion narrows down our options doesn’t mean that lipstick beggars can’t be choosers. We all still have wants and needs in our makeup that extend past just finding a shade that looks nice against our skin. So, not only did we find the best red lip colors for fair skin, but we made sure to find an option that fills each of the most common needs folks have when searching for a lip shade. Plus, since we know no one wants to spend a fortune on makeup when there are cheaper options out there, all of our picks are under $25 and don’t skimp on quality.
Still, just because our complexion narrows down our options doesn’t mean that lipstick beggars can’t be choosers. We all still have wants and needs in our makeup that extend past just finding a shade that looks nice against our skin. So, not only did we find the best red lip colors for fair skin, but we made sure to find an option that fills each of the most common needs folks have when searching for a lip shade. Plus, since we know no one wants to spend a fortune on makeup when there are cheaper options out there, all of our picks are under $25 and don’t skimp on quality.
The universal red
MAC Cosmetics
If you’ve got fair skin, this pick is sure to look saturated and bold (just like it does on Ms.Swift) and it will likely give you major classic Hollywood starlet vibes. If the real-life Hollywood starlet’s rave review isn’t enough to convince you, another review raves, “I get sooooooooo many compliments from this lipstick!!!! I am even known for my signature ‘Ruby Woo’ look!! Hands down it is a must have. Worth every penny.”
Applicator: Stick | Finish: Matte
Best matte shade
One review says, “How did I stumble onto the perfect lipstick???? This lipstick goes on smooth and sort of dries to a nice, natural finish. It looks great. It doesn’t bleed and lasts longer than most lipsticks. I have tried a lot of matte lipsticks lately. Some are okay, but this one is superior. I can’t believe the price!!!” That’s right — in addition to the myriad qualities that make this lip color a fave, it’s just over $6.
Applicator: Doe foot | Finish: Matte
Best glossy shade
Ulta Beauty
We all know that glossy lips have been having a moment for the past few years, and opting for a color with some gloss can be an especially good pick for people who are prone to chapped, dry lips (via L’Oréal USA.) If you’re looking for a glossy red option, our pick is Benefit Cosmetics’ California Kissin’ ColorBalm Moisturizing Lip Balm. What we love about this option is that, as the title says, it’s actually a lip balm rather than a lipstick. Because of this, it’s glossy without that all-too-common sticky factor, and it keeps your lips plump and full of moisture with loads of healthy ingredients like hyaluronic acid and mango butter.
It’s also one of the most pigmented lip balms you’ll ever encounter, which means that even though it’s got all the benefits (no pun intended) of a lip balm, it also competes with other red lipsticks in terms of saturation. One reviewer who uses our shade of choice, Ruby, calls it “super pigmented also hydrating!… my go to lippie so pretty!” Buy the California Kissin’ ColorBalm Moisturizing Lip Balm by Benefit Cosmetics in Ruby from Ulta Beauty for $21.00. Applicator: Stick | Finish: Glossy
It’s also one of the most pigmented lip balms you’ll ever encounter, which means that even though it’s got all the benefits (no pun intended) of a lip balm, it also competes with other red lipsticks in terms of saturation. One reviewer who uses our shade of choice, Ruby, calls it “super pigmented also hydrating!… my go to lippie so pretty!”
Buy the California Kissin’ ColorBalm Moisturizing Lip Balm by Benefit Cosmetics in Ruby from Ulta Beauty for $21.00.
Applicator: Stick | Finish: Glossy
Best for cooler months
One review says, “This is a beautiful shade of lipstick! It is a darker red, but still looks good on fair skin/blonde haired people. It lasted through lunch.” Of course, there’s no hard and fast rule that says fair-skinned folks can’t sport a darker red lip when the sun is shining; just make sure to pare down your other makeup when rocking this lipstick on a summer day, and you’ll be good to go.
Applicator: Stick | Finish: Matte
Best for warmer months
Because this lipstick feels like a lip balm going on, it’s a bit lower in pigment than other options. As a result, this shade won’t look like a classic red lip on darker skin tones, but for fairer skinned folks, this will give you a shade that’s definitely red while being a bit lighter and more understated. One reviewer, who also loves our favorite shade, said, “I bought this on a whim, and I’m so glad I did! When freshly applied, the lipstick has a slight sheen to it. After about an hour it ‘sets’ to more of a stain product. It lasts about 8-10 hours on me. The color is a gorgeous red that ‘pops’ without being too severe to wear during the day. It provides light moisture, but will accentuate any dry spots after it sets. Also, it smells great.”
Applicator: Cushion tip | Finish: Satin
Best staying power
ColourPop
If you’re looking for long-lasting color and cutting down on touch-up time, we’ve got the red lipstick for you. ColourPop LippieStix will make your lipstick application time fly by. Not only will it stay put all day and night, but it’s also designed to eliminate the need for lip liner, so you can skip one whole (very difficult) step of your makeup routine. This red is striking and bold on fair skin, and it will really make your makeup stand out. As one review says, “This red pops! Smooth application.”
This super pigmented shade will be sure to draw attention to your pout, and it also feels creamy and soft on your lips. Plus, it won’t dry your lips out and is filled with lots of good things, like shea butter and vitamin E. Buy the ColourPop LippieStix in Trust Me from ColourPop for $6.00. Applicator: Stick | Finish: Matte
This super pigmented shade will be sure to draw attention to your pout, and it also feels creamy and soft on your lips. Plus, it won’t dry your lips out and is filled with lots of good things, like shea butter and vitamin E.
Buy the ColourPop LippieStix in Trust Me from ColourPop for $6.00.
