How to Get Perfect Red Lips

There are several simple steps to getting those perfect red lips you want.

First, ensure that your lips are smooth and well-conditioned. Use lip conditioner on both the top and the bottom, then wipe it away. You do not want them to be wet when you apply the color. If your lips are dry or chapped, you may need to exfoliate them first.

Next, use lip liner, but use a cream stick liner to help you blend and control the lipstick. Start with the edges, then fill in the entire lip, which will help the color last a long time and prevent smudging or feathering. Be sure to open your mouth and get in the corners, or the part you miss will be visible when you are talking. Make sure your "cupid's bow" is well-defined.

Then, choose your lip color. Any deep red color that works well with your skin tone will do. But use a lip brush instead of applying it straight from the tube, since you can be more precise in your application of the color.

Add a gloss if that works well with your lips, or you can leave it with a matte finish. You can use either red or clear gloss. Place it in the center of your lips, then rub them together to smear it. Gloss helps accentuate your mouth and give it a fuller look.

Lastly, take a small brush and use some concealer around the outside of the lip line. This helps the lips stay well-defined, and will decrease the chances of the lipstick feathering. This helps your lips really pop. If you made any small mistakes in the earlier steps, the concealer will help correct that. Then blend the concealer out.