Monday, 25 January 2016 11:22

Picking the Right Shade of Red Lipstick

Written by   Carolyn Diamond, L.E., makeup artist, owner of Carolyn Diamond Make

Red lipstick is a universal classic and has yet to go out of style. Although red lipstick can be one of the most powerful weapons in any client’s beauty arsenal, many assume they cannot wear it.Many clients, when they gather enough courage to attempt wearing red lipstick, often feel awkward, as though everyone is looking at their lips. Truth be told, they probably are! Beautiful, red lips are striking, sexy, and an accessory within themselves.

The Perfect Shade
What should a professional say to the many clients who wrongly believe they cannot wear red lipstick? Find the perfect shade and own it! The secret to choosing the right shade of red is in knowing the skin tone. Clients with pink skin undertones should opt for a cherry red with blue undertones. Those with an olive skin complexion look great wearing fire-engine red, or a lip color that has more of an orange base. Clients with darker skin tones look great with a deep, rich red. It is important to remember that the paler the skin, the bigger the pop. So go light on the eyes and blush, otherwise the client risks looking like a clown. Skip the heavy eyeliner and opt for mascara only. Feel free to play up those lashes using black for brunette clients and brown for blondes and redheads. Be sure to apply mascara to the bottom eyelashes as it opens up
the eyes.

Also, try and match the lip liner shade to the lipstick. The lip liner shade should be either exactly the same or in a darker, more complimentary tone. Lip pencils are a tool to create a more defined, perfect edge; they create more depth to the edges and corners.pic2

Things to Avoid When Wearing Red Lipstick.
When applying red lipstick, it is best to avoid deep reds on clients with thin lips. Deep reds tend to make the lips look smaller. Also, try to avoid playing up the client’s eyes too much. For a classic look, or very old Hollywood glamour, pair red lipstick with the lightest possible eye makeup. A little mascara and soft, beige-tone eyeshadow works beautifully. It is best not to match a red lip color to a red outfit. When wearing red, always wear the color that is best suited for the skin’s color.
Red lipstick must be applied precisely. It should never be applied casually. Although this may take a bit of practice, clients will be more than happy with the result. Furthermore, always be sure to check the teeth after applying the lipstick and be sure to blot the lips.

Complimentary Makeup
After applying a foundation base, apply a very light dusting of bronzer. Next, apply blush to the apple of the cheek. The technique of lightly dusting bronzer and blush over the foundation creates an iridescent glow to the face, a look that is very pin-up.

The important thing to remember when applying red lipstick or gloss is that the lips are the eye catcher, so keep the rest simple. The result is a classic, elegant, versatile and sexy look.

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