How To Master The Perfect Red Lip
Repeat after me...
"I believe in red lipstick. I believe in red lipstick. I believe in red lipstick"
Today we celebrate the independence of our country, and hopefully your mastery of the perfect red lip. Here's how it's done...
Step 1 - Prep Your Lips
You lips aren't always perfectly prepped for lipstick to glide on smoothly. Sometimes there a little dry, especially in these summer months. Apply a lip scrub, like Pout Prep Lip Exfoliant from Tarte, to scrub the dead skin off. After that, apply lip balm a couple hours before you're ready to wear your lipstick. This will give your lips a chance to absorb the moisture. My favorite is Rosebud Salve.
Step 2 - Lip Liner
Lip liner is key to the perfect pout. Find a shade that matches your lip stain/lip stick and line your natural lip line. If you're going the lipstick route, fill in your entire pout to ensure lasting color even after the lipstick wears off. Opting for lip stain? Just line your lips, the stain will take care of the rest. I use NYX Suede Matte Lip Liner in Kitten Heels. At only $4.00, it matches my favorite Smashbox Liquid Lipsick perfectly!
Step 3 - Time For Color
Now I personally prefer lip stain if i'm going the red-lip route, but I have friends that can't stand it due to the lack of moisture. If you're like me and can deal, my FAVORITE is Smashbox Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick in Bang Bang. And yes, I partially bought it because I loved the name. This shade of red may be the most perfect one I've ever found. I need a more yellow/orangy red but if that's not your shade, they have many more to choose from. Even better, purchase it at Sephora so they can help you find your perfect match.
If you are wanting to go the lipstick route, go for something high pigmented like Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in Bing, a classic matte red.
