6 Rules of Red Lipstick

The classic hue may make your teeth instantly appear whiter
The classic hue may make your teeth instantly appear whiter

Sporting red lipstick is more than just a way to channel your inner screen siren. Wear the classic hue, and your teeth may instantly appear whiter. Here, makeup artist Susan Posnick's tips for finding your ideal shade.

1. Check the Undertone

"Each red has one of three: yellow-orange, blue, or a bit of both (a neutral red). You'll get the best brightening with a blue-based lipstick, because it detracts from the yellow in your teeth." How to tell the difference? Swipe three different red lipsticks on the inside of your wrist: "By having a point of comparison, you'll be able to see the varying undertones in all three." Testing on this part of your arm is ideal; the blue of your veins will help you pick out a lipstick's blue tones.

Try: MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Russian Red ($15, maccosmetics.com).

2. Consider Your Skin Tone

"A red that's too blue can make dark skin look ashy, so women with darker or more olive-toned complexions should look for a red with a neutral base."

Try: L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in British Red ($9, drugstores).

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3. Sample Berries

A bright red lip is definitely a look, so if you're hesitant about committing to full-force scarlet, try a berry hue: "One with blue undertones will have the same smile-whitening effect as a classic red would."

Try: CoverGirl Lip Perfection Lipstick in Euphoria ($7, drugstores).

4. Avoid Gloss

"A red gloss won't have the same coverage or intensity of pigment as a lipstick. It may appear red on your lips, but it won't change the look of your teeth."

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5. Use Liner

Choose a shade of red that matches your lipstick. "It'll emphasize the color, prevent it from bleeding into lip lines, and help the color last."

6. Test Color on Lips

If that's not possible, dab the lipstick on the pad of one of your fingertips, which has lots of blood vessels - the color is closest to the actual hue of your lips.

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