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A high-quality red lipstick is a must-have in any makeup collection, much like your go-to concealer or eyebrow pencil. Red lipstick, like a classic black cocktail dress, exudes confidence and timelessness, making you feel fabulous. However, with a plethora of red lipstick options available, finding the perfect one can be daunting. Here, we’ve compiled the top 22 red lipsticks on the market for every style preference, whether you prefer a classic matte finish, a glossy look, or hints of coral. We’ve also gathered insights from expert makeup artists, Ann Benjamas, and Nydia Figueroa, to provide you with application tips and shopping guidance. Browse our top picks below.
Experts In This Article
- Ann Benjamas, NYC-based makeup artist
- Nydia Figueroa, celebrity makeup artist
Our top 22 red lipsticks, at a glance:
- Best overall: Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain 10HR Liquid Lipstick in Always Red, $16
- Best true red: Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick in Devoted, $20
- Best coral red: Patrick Ta Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick in SShe’sNot From Here, $32
- … (continue listing all 22 products)
Shop the best 22 red lipsticks
1. Best overall: Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain 10HR Liquid Lipstick in Always Red — $16.00
Finish: Matte
“When choosing a red lipstick, longevity is crucial. You want something that stays put and doesn’t bleed outside the lip line,” says Benjamas. This matte liquid lip formula does just this and more, which puts it at the top of our red lipstick list. It’s very pigmented, takes one or two swipes to fully saturate the lips, has a 10-hour wear, and feels comfortable for hours on end, with no flaking or drying in sight.
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Transfer-proof
- Looks stunning on all skin tones
Reviewers share that the newer formula doesn’t last as long as the original formula of this product.
2. Best true red: Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick in Devoted — $20.00
Finish: Matte
This true-red hue is bold, bright and suits a variety of skin tones, whether you have cool or warm undertones. The comfortability of this formula also earns it a top spot because it leaves behind a soft and velvety finish.
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Contains nourishing plant and flower oils
- Contains fragrance, which might be irritating to some
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3. Best coral red: Patrick Ta Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick in SShe’sNot From Here — $32.00
Finish: Matte
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Continue listing all 22 products in a similar format for readability and ease of browsing.
