There's nothing like a nice swap of red lipstick to brighten up your mood. A classic red pout never goes out of style, but getting it "just right" can't take a little trial and error. You may have found your perfect shade, but you're still not in the clear yet. The trick to pulling off sophisticated red lips is using the right tools and careful application. Check out a few of my own tips below and then go show off those sexy labios!
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Exofliate: Cracked and peeling lips can make your red lipstick look feathery and uneven. Use a lip scrub to gently buff lips and remove dry, dead skin. I like to combine a teaspoon of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. For a quicker fix, try Sara Happ The Lip Scrub in Brown Sugar ($24).
Moisturize: Hydrate lips with a super hydrating lip balm, like Korres Lip Butter in Guava ($12). Make sure to give it some time to absorb.
Use a lip liner: Line your lips with a lip liner in the same shade as your red lipstick. I love the Revlon ColorStay Liner for Lips in Red ($7). The creamy formula goes on so smoothly and precisely.
Apply with a lip brush: To avoid messy application, apply lipstick using a lip liner brush. Don't forget to apply to the very inside of your lips too. When you smile or pout the color of your real lips could show.
Clean it up: Once it's in place dab the lipstick with a tissue. Then add a little bit of clear gloss if you want some added shine. And viola!
Image via Thinkstock
