Skip to content
Shadepick

How to find your perfect red lipstick

Blue-red, true red or orange-red — how to tell which one suits you and how to wear it with confidence.

Updated: 2026-09-29 · 2 min read

Try it on

They say there's a red for everyone, and it's true. The problem is that in the store they all look the same, and on your face they look wildly different. The secret lies in the undertone of the red and your own undertone.

The three big families of red

Blue-red (cool). It has a hint of blue or raspberry. It makes teeth look whiter and it's the go-to for cool undertones. The most famous example is Ruby Woo.

True red (neutral). It leans neither orange nor blue. It's the most universal and a great starting point if you don't know your undertone.

Orange-red or brick (warm). It has an orange or brick base. It lights up golden skin and warm undertones, and looks beautiful with brown and green eyes.

How to find yours

  1. Work out your undertone. There are four quick tests in How to tell if your undertone is cool or warm.
  2. Adjust for depth. Fair skin carries mid reds well; deep skin looks stunning in rich, heavily pigmented reds.
  3. Compare on your face. In the try-on's shade comparison you can put three or four reds side by side on your photo and see which one lifts your face.

Tips for wearing red

  • Always line. A pencil in the same shade stops feathering and defines the shape.
  • Keep the rest clean. With a red lip you don't need strong blush or heavy eyes — mascara and brushed-up brows are enough.
  • Check your teeth. After applying, put your index finger between your lips and pull it out: the excess ends up on your finger, not your teeth.
  • Choose the finish for the occasion. For dinner out, a long-wear liquid matte; for photos, a satin or classic matte.

The 10 reds challenge

Can't decide? Try the "I tried 10 reds" challenge: swipe through every red in the catalogue on your own face in a minute and create a "shade by shade" video to ask your followers which one suits you best.

Frequently asked questions

Does red suit everyone?

Yes — as long as you choose the undertone that matches yours and the intensity that matches your contrast.

Matte or satin red for everyday?

Satin is more comfortable and forgiving. Matte lasts longer and looks more polished.

Which red works if my teeth look yellow?

Blue-reds make teeth look whiter; orange-reds emphasise yellow tones.

More questions answered