Red lipstick showdown: Which ones made our Top 5?

New York Post

13 hours ago

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Red lipstick is pure attitude. It's glam, it's fierce, it's iconic — and it never whispers. Whether you're turning heads on a night out or adding edge to your everyday look, the right red can transform your entire vibe.
But with so many shades, from fiery orange-reds to vampy blood reds, finding your perfect match takes more than a quick swipe at the beauty counter.
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That's where we come in. We've tested, swatched, blotted and boldly reapplied to bring you the definitive list of the best red lipsticks in the game. Obsessed with a silky red matte lipstick? We found the creamiest, most comfortable formulas. Looking for a bold lip that doesn't break the bank? We've got the best drugstore red lipstick picks that punch way above their price. From juicy cherry red lipstick to cozy brick red lipstick, this guide is packed with shades that speak louder than words.
Whether you're loyal to cult favorites or curious about clean-beauty heroes like Red Apple Lipstick, this roundup of the best red lipstick shades is your ultimate red-lip roadmap. Pick your power color — and wear it like you mean it.
Best Overall: MAC Cosmetics MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick
MAC Cosmetics
Pros: Rich, hydrating formula
Bold, flattering red
Sleek, travel-friendly packaging Cons: Isn't transfer-proof (tends to transfer on coffee mugs and kisses)
May need a touchup after a few hours, but not a dealbreaker
After testing countless red lipsticks, MAC's MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in 'Left on Red' emerged as the undeniable standout. From the first swipe, it delivered rich, true-red pigment with a smooth, satin finish that feels as luxurious as it looks. Unlike so many reds that either dry out my lips or wear off unevenly, this formula strikes the perfect balance: hydrating and long-wearing.
It feels nourishing throughout the day without ever compromising on color payoff, which makes sense, as it's infused with a blend of pomegranate flower, camellia seed and rosehip oils. In short, I love how it applies and looks.
Victoria Giardina
What truly sets 'Left on Red' apart is its texture. It glides on like a balm but packs the full impact of a statement lipstick. The satin finish has just enough sheen to keep things fresh and modern, yet it holds its shape and color like a pro. I also love the subtle vanilla scent, which gives it that extra bit of MAC signature magic. It's a lipstick that makes me feel instantly polished, confident and a little bit unstoppable.
And, let's talk packaging: sleek, modern and refreshingly practical. The high-shine black bullet clicks shut securely (bless), so it travels well, and the shade itself is incredibly versatile. 'Left on Red' works just as beautifully for a daytime pop as it does for a bold evening look. It smooths over fine lines, subtly plumps, and has that effortless 'my lips but redder' effect that every red lipstick dreams of achieving. Simply put: it's not just a lipstick; it's my new signature.
Shade: 'Left on Red' | Finish: Satin
Best Lip Oil: ILIA Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil
Sephora
Pros: One of the most hydrating formulas I tested, if not the most hydrating
Leaves an effortless, natural tint
Clean beauty Cons: Not long-lasting, but worth the reapplication
Only provides a sheer finish, but not a dealbreaker
OK, listen — I know 'Saint' isn't a true lipstick (it's a lip oil), but this rustic orange-red sheen has been my go-to red for years when I want that effortlessly natural 'just enough'pop. The ILIA Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil is hydrating, glossy and gives such a gorgeous wash of color that, even on my most makeup-averse mornings, I swipe it on and feel instantly put together.
Formula-wise, 'Saint' is a hydrating dream. It's packed with hyaluronic acid (a check in my books, if you know me), meadow-foam seed oil, sea succulent and shea butter, so my lips stay soft, plump and never sticky. Plus, the gloss slips on as a cushiony, sheer balm that disappears into a subtle, modern sheen. Not only does it feel good, but it looks good, too — and fades beautifully, never leaving a weird ring around your lip.
And yes, there's the delightfully light ginger-yuzu flavor; it's just a hint, not overpowering, but it makes each application feel like a little treat.
Shade: 'Saint' | Finish: Glossy
Best Red Lipstick for Fair Skin: Dior Addict Shine Lipstick
Dior
Pros: Perfect coral-red for fair skin
Hydrating and comfortable formula
Chic packaging Cons: Limited availability; currently only available on Dior.com
Sheer to medium coverage, but worth reapplying
When I first swiped on Dior Addict Shade 661, 'Dioriviera,' it was like sunshine in a bullet-shaped applicator meant for fair skin — even before I glanced in the mirror. It's that flawless coral-red hue that warms the complexion without washing one out or looking too harsh.
The shade hits the sweet spot between bold and gentle, making me feel glamorous yet effortless. Seriously, this red dances just right: luminous, fresh and never flat.
But the magic isn't just in the color. The formula is seriously next-level. Dior's Addict Shine is made with 90% natural-origin ingredients and infused with jasmine floral wax and plum oil, delivering up to 24 hours of hydration and 6 hours of mesmerizing shine (now I know why that's plastered on every product description). It glides on like a dream, smooth and glossy, without shifting around or feeling sticky.
And, can we talk about that high-octane vinyl finish? It catches the light so beautifully, and for fair skin, that slick shine keeps the lip from fading into 'just makeup' territory. It stays bold, bright and alive. The price is steep, but the payoff is phenomenal.
Shade: '661: Dioriviera' | Finish: High Shine
Best Liquid Red Lipstick: PAT McGRATH LABS LiquiLUST Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick
Sephora
Pros: Taylor Swift-approved
Long-lasting power
Iconic, flattering shade Cons: Not 100% transfer-proof, but not a dealbreaker
Limited availability (grab it while you can!)
If you're hunting for the perfect red liquid lipstick (the kind that turns heads and survives late-night pizza), look no further than Pat McGRATH Labs LiquiLUST in 'Elson 4.' This rich, blue-based red is the kind of red that instantly brightens your smile and makes you feel like you're walking a personal runway. And yes, it's Taylor Swift-approved.
She's been spotted wearing it on stage during the Eras Tour, in her music videos and even while cheering at football games. If it can survive a three-hour concert, it can survive your night out.
'It took me ages to secure my first tube of this Taylor Swift-approved red, since it was sold out for literal years — but it was definitely worth the wait, and has been my holy grail ever since,' Elana Fishman, Page Six Style and shopping director (and the Queen of the Signature Red Lip) shared. 'I'd always avoided matte liquid lipsticks since they're often drying, but not this one; it feels so lightweight and comfortable that I often forget I'm wearing it.'
Elana Fishman
Fishman said it's also the longest-lasting red lipstick she has ever tried, and the tapered teardrop applicator makes it easy to draw on the perfect pout. 'The color payoff is out of this world, and once you give it a few seconds to dry down, it'll stay put for hours and hours,' she added.
Shade: 'Elson 4' | Finish: Matte
Best Matte Red Lipstick: Sisley Paris Phyto-Rouge Velvet Lipstick
Sisley Paris
Pros: Rich, sophisticated shade
Hydrating, comfortable formula
Luxurious packaging Cons: Expensive price point
Touchups required, though not a dealbreaker
Sisley Paris Phyto-Rouge Velvet Lipstick in '43 Rouge Ardent' redefines what a red lipstick should be. This shade radiates a sophisticated, fiery allure that effortlessly enhances any look. It strikes a flawless balance between daring and timeless, delivering a statement without overwhelming.
Whether I'm stepping into a formal event or a casual outing, this red adds an instant touch of elegance and confidence. The true standout, however, lies in its luxurious formula that's enriched with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and konjac glucomannan; it pampers your lips with deep moisture and a plumping effect that lasts.
The velvety matte finish feels weightless and comfortable, too, steering clear of dryness or cracking. With additional antioxidants from vitamin E and nourishing marine extracts, it not only beautifies but also cares for my lips, which makes it feel incredibly luxe in my makeup bag or purse. It even comes in a velvet case. It's a worthy investment for any shopper on the prowl for that 'Devil Wears Prada' red.
Shade: '43 Rouge Ardent' | Finish: Matte
Amazon
Pros: Lightweight and comfortable to wear
Excellent price point (under $10!)
Travel-friendly and pocket-sized Cons: Expensive price point
Requires reapplication after eating, though not a dealbreaker
OK, first off — this isn't technically a lipstick, but don't let that fool you. The e.l.f. Glossy Lip Stain in 'Fiery Red' somehow nails the look and feel of a classic red lip without the usual fuss. It glides on smoothly and feels super lightweight, like you're barely wearing anything. The glossy finish gives it just the right amount of shine to make your lips pop, but it's not sticky or heavy like some glosses can be. Honestly, it's like having the best of both worlds: the bold color payoff of a liquid lipstick with the comfort and shine of a lip gloss.
What I adore most is how long it lasts without constant touch-ups. This little beauty clings to your lips all day, fading gracefully rather than flaking or smudging everywhere. Plus, the precise applicator means you can line and fill in your lips like a pro, no mess involved. And let's be real, for the price, it's basically a steal. Vegan and cruelty-free? Yes please! It's perfect for anyone who wants that iconic red lip vibe without breaking the bank.
Whether I'm out grabbing coffee or heading to an event, 'Fiery Red' is one of my budget-friendly go-tos that never disappoints. It's bold, beautiful, budget-friendly and just plain fun to wear. If you want a red lip that feels effortless and looks flawless, this is your new ride-or-die.
Shade: 'Fiery Red' | Finish: Glossy
How We Tested
Some of the red lipsticks we tested, from e.l.f. Cosmetics to MAC Cosmetics.
Victoria Giardina
Testing the perfect red lipstick isn't for the faint of heart. Here's the testing criteria we kept in mind when swiping on each one:
Color Payoff: We evaluated how rich and vibrant the red shade appeared on the lips with just one swipe.
We evaluated how rich and vibrant the red shade appeared on the lips with just one swipe. Wear Time: We tracked how long the lipstick stayed put throughout the day without fading, smudging, or feathering.
We tracked how long the lipstick stayed put throughout the day without fading, smudging, or feathering. Comfort: We paid attention to how the formula felt — whether it was drying, sticky, lightweight or nourishing on the lips.
We paid attention to how the formula felt — whether it was drying, sticky, lightweight or nourishing on the lips. Application: We assessed how easy it was to apply the lipstick smoothly and precisely, including how well the applicator helped with clean lines.
We assessed how easy it was to apply the lipstick smoothly and precisely, including how well the applicator helped with clean lines. Finish: We looked at the final look of the lipstick — whether it was matte, glossy, satin or something else — and how that finish held up over time.
An FAQ on Red Lipsticks
What to look for in a red lipstick, per an expert
According to Melinda Solares, Sephora beauty director, you should consider formula, finish and shade when looking for a red lipstick.
'It's important to start by identifying what factors are most important to you, because this can be different for each person,' she exclusively shared with Post Wanted. 'You have to ask yourself, are you looking for any additional benefits from the lipstick?'
What's the best lipstick for fair skin? For dark skin?
Though Solares is firm that bright red looks great on anyone, there are some guidelines to help you choose the most flattering lipstick shade for you:
Decipher your undertone: An undertone is different than your skin tone. Skin tones range from fair to deep, but the undertone is the shade within your skin tone. These undertones can be warm, cool, or neutral. For a quick check, look at your veins; blue veins indicate cool undertones, green veins indicate warm undertones and a mix of both indicates neutral undertones. Select a corresponding lipstick shade: For warm tones, try orange-red and brick-red. For cool tones, try blue-red and purple-red. If your skin tone is neutral, you've got a bit more to work with. Neutral skin tones tend to look good with a wider range of red lipstick shades, so 'have fun experimenting!' according to Solares.
What's a good makeup look with red lipstick?
Solares gives us the 411 on how to craft a look with a bold red lippe.
'My go-to makeup look to pair with a red lipstick is very simple,' she explained. 'I might add a bit of neutral eye shadow to contour my eyes, tight-line my lash line for a bit of definition, add a touch of light and neutral blush, and work to keep the focus on the beautiful bold lip!'
Most importantly, it's important to have fun with it!
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.