The Best Red Lipsticks To Add To Your Makeup Bag

Red lipstick is a classic for a reason—it's the cherry on top of a cute outfit, the finishing touch that pulls an entire look together. But while the perfect red is a power move, a subpar formula or shade can be a confidence buster.

We tested hundreds of formulas to find the best red lipsticks on the market. The result? Ten iconic red lipsticks worth adding to your collection.

Best overall red lipstick

M.A.C Cosmetics Lustreglass Sheer-Shine Lipstick in Lady Bug, $33

This satin formula is infused with moisturizing olive oil and earns top marks thanks to its A+ colour payoff, ease of application and all-day comfort. There's plenty of red hues to choose from in this range, but we're obsessed with Lady Bug, a dark red with a perfectly balanced undertone.

Best drugstore red lipstick

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Reds of Worth in Prosperous Red, $14

Creamy and pigmented, this red gives pricier options a run for their money. It contains argan oil and vitamin E to moisturize lips throughout the day. It comes in six deeply vibrant red hues, but brick reds—like the shade Prosperous Red—look good on everyone.

Best luxury red lipstick

Guerlain Rouge G Satin Refillable Lipstick in 214 Le Rouge Kiss, $52 (refill) and $48 (case)

This lipstick’s satin sheen is impressive, but what sold us is its mirrored, refillable case, which comes in a variety of prints and finishes. The beauty of this customizable lipstick is that you can keep different shades and formulas on deck and swap them out as needed.

Best hydrating red lipstick

Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Balm in Cherry Luster, $11

This buttery, high-shine red strikes the perfect balance between hydration and high colour pay off. It's infused with a cocktail of hyaluronic acid and aloe, which keeps lips plump, smooth and moisturized.

Best matte red lipstick

Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips 2 in Red Hot Susan, $52

This surprisingly hydrating matte lipstick contains a hint of orange pigment that's flattering on all skin tones. The matte finish is perfect for those who typically favour satin lippies as it still has plenty of dimension and won't dry out your pout. Pair with a matching lip liner for a look that stays put all day.

Best high-shine red lipstick

Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick in Red Hot, $13

This longwear liquid lipstick—a shinier, party-read take on the brand's popular SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick—features a touch of orange for a flattering hue. The formula is outstanding, giving lips a beautiful mirror-like shine that's guaranteed to turn heads. Plus, we love the easy-to-use applicator that allows you to draw on the colour without smudges.

Best liquid red lipstick

Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in Starwoman, $40

Featuring an ink-like, fluid texture and a fine-tipped wand for precise application, this dark vampy red dries quickly into a budge-proof matte finish.

Best sheer red lipstick

Burt’s Bees Gloss & Glow in Eat, Drink and Be Cherry, $10

If you're unsure about wearing red lipstick, try this drugstore gem. The lightweight texture and sheer finish make this rosy-red lip colour—which is packed with mango butter and coconut oil—incredibly comfortable to wear and easy to reapply on the go.