Red lipstick has, for me, always been one of those beauty products I've long admired on others, but shied away from myself. As someone who has long suffered with very sensitive skin and adult acne for a time, I've felt way too self conscious about drawing attention to my face with such a bold, bright colour.
But then I saw Salma Hayek's flawless makeup while attending the Gucci Cruise 2025 fashion show in London, and it filled me inspiration. The actress' beautiful rich shade of red compliments her skin tone perfectly, and with it she oozes confidence. It reminded me of the powerful feeling and mood boost red lipstick can give you. No other shade offers that sense of empowerment, and now, older and little more confident, I was keen to experience that feeling again.
Another reason I've held back for so long is the fear of choosing a shade that doesn't suit (and looking like an idiot). And, this is going to sound stupid, not knowing how best to apply it (don't even get me started on the best lip liners). Luckily for me, I have an expert on hand to help, and the advice from woman&home Digital Beauty Editor Aleesha Badkar resulted in me recently purchasing my first red lipstick in over a decade...
The very aptly named 'Red Carpet Red' lipstick from Charlotte Tilbury looks to be a really close match to Salma's choice - and the one I've just invested in. Charlotte Tilbury has loads of red shades in this matte lipstick, and lots of skin type examples to help decide which is right for your tone. And the brand comes highly recommended by our experts, with Charlotte Tilbury featuring among our pick of the best long-lasting lipsticks.
How to choose a red lipstick
If you're in a similar position to me and feel a bit nervous about wearing such a bold colour, Aleesha's expert advice will really help.
"When choosing a red lipstick there are three main factors to think about - the product type, the finish and the undertone.
"First, consider what type of lip product you find easiest and most comfortable to apply. This is especially important if you're a little nervous about wearing slightly bolder shades than you tend to opt for. Do you prefer a classic lipstick or maybe a lip pencil that might be a little easier to apply and not show up mistakes so much? Or do you want the long-lasting effect of a liquid lipstick that dries on and stays put, so that you don't have to think about re-applying?
"Next, think about the finish and what you feel would be most flattering. If you're someone who has visibly oily skin or your lips are on the smaller side, then a muted matte finish may suit you better. Or for those whose skin errs on the drier side, a satin finish could lift your look a bit. If you want to make a real statement or have bigger lips that can carry the impact, then you could try a shiny finish.
"Lastly, think about the undertone. A general rule is to go for a cool and blue-toned red if you have a cooler skin tone and warm orange-toned red if you have a warmer skin tone. This can be a useful step for those just starting out with red lipstick, but once you build up your confidence wearing the classic shade, then there's nothing stopping you trying out different reds. Every lip colour can work on everyone - you just have to take the first step."
For more expert advice, don't miss our experts' best makeup tips for older women, which covers everything from how to pick the right primer to adding a cream blush to your arsenal.
W&H beauty team red lipstick picks
Hourglass' Glossy Balm gives a red tint, but is a balm and a gloss in one – and is a firm favourite of woman&home beauty writer Naomi Jamieson. "The shade "Entice" is my go-to when I'm not in the mood for a full-on matte lip, or my lips are looking (and feeling) chapped - and thus I feel too self-conscious to wear a matte or even satin finish.
It's something of a triple threat, offering a rich, red tint but with the juicy shine of a gloss and the comfort of a balm. This colour is bold enough for evening wear but thanks to the added shine and glossy feel, is also an easy everyday option."
"One for those who are serious about a red lip, this one may be slightly tricky to apply but the payoff is worth it," Aleesha says. "The popular liquid lipstick goes on very wet, so I would suggest going in with a steady hand and lining first - either with a liner or the tip of the NARS wand itself - and then filling in the gloriously pigmented liquid after.
Once it's on, it's on with this one - so no need to reapply (and make sure you've got a stellar makeup remover on hand). But the gorgeous colour, comfortable wear and non-moving/non-transfer formula with a flattering matte finish makes this the best red for those who want to make an all-day/all-night impact. Dab on a light layer of lip balm afterward if you're a dry lip sufferer, to make this more comfortable to wear throughout the day.
"A classic for a reason, though this iconic red boasts blue undertones, the rich but vivid pigment means that it sits well on all skin tones," Aleesha explains. "As someone with warm undertones, I wasn't sure if it would be one for me, but I can honestly say it's one of my favourite red shades - and was actually the lipstick that got me into wearing red.
It's long-lasting with a matte finish, however the original Retro Matte finish can leave lips feeling dry and make for tricky reapplication, so if your lips err on the drier side I'd try the brand's newer Silky Matte version.
Aleesha is Digital Beauty Editor at woman&home, where she gets to share her expertise into all the best techniques, sharpest tools and newest products – with a particular savvy in skincare and fragrance.
Naomi is Beauty Writer at woman&home, where she covers everything from skincare to fragrance but specialises in makeup and nail trends, sharing her expertise on the latest beauty buys and must-have manicure styles.
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