Look ravishing in red with a scarlet smile!

It used to be that ‘back in the day’ red lips could strike fear into the heart of most women. But now with so many different formulations, shades and varying finishes to choose from, there is a perfect red out there for every woman.

What ever your generation, a simple red lipstick is a woman’s secret weapon. A symbol of love, lust, beauty, and passion. Red lipstick may not be for the faint-hearted but remains a classic and an elegant and versatile addition to any handbag, and with these simple rules, everyone can wear it. So, pucker up and perfect that pout .

Rule No. 1: Choose the correct shade ; If you are warm with olive or yellow undertones, choose a lipstick with orange or brown tones. Think brick red or fire-engine red. If you are cool with pinkish or reddish undertones, pick a red lipstick with berry undertones of blue or pink. Darker complexions should avoid the brighter reds and opt for deep rich shades in burgundy or plum.

Rule No. 2: Prep your lips; Start with lips in the best possible condition, buff and balm the lips before applying any colour. You can Exfoliate gently with a soft, dry toothbrush. But remenber to wipe any exess balm away.

Rule No. 3: Concealer ;Blend a small amount of light concealer around the mo

uth to enable you to acheive a polished look and to prevent the colour bleeding into fine lines.

Rule No. 4: Lip liner ; Liner is essential with red lipstick, It helps to hold the colour and prevent the ultimate bleeding, Fill in the lips completely with lip liner first and trace the lip contours choose a lip pencil in a shade close to that of your lipstick.

Rule No. 5: No shortcuts; Don’t be tempted to apply straight from the stick, work up the colour gradually and always use a lip brush. Kiss a tissue to remove access before adding another layer and the pigment will last a lot longer. To prevent lipstick on the teeth just make an ‘o’ with your mouth, pop your finger in and draw it out again – viola!

Rule No. 6: Keep it simple; Pair red lipstick with the lightest possible eye makeup, A little mascara and beige shadow with a hint of blush.

Remember: If you’re planning on eating, avoid anything oily like salad dressing. Oil dissolves lipstick and will spread the pigment into the lines around the mouth.

* To stop your lipstick coming off onto your coffee cup or wine glass, discreetly press your tongue to the spot where you’re about to sip and the lipstick won’t stick.