These Makeup Colors Look Stunning With Red Hair
July 12, 2022
Blondes may have more fun (or so they say), but it’s redheads that really have the most options when choosing makeup colors. In short, pretty much anything goes when you have red hair. Why? “Greens and blues will really make the hair color pop, since they fall opposite red on the color wheel,” explains celebrity makeup artist and beauty expert Bryan Cantor.
At the same time, warmer tones — think peachy pinks and corals — are also extremely flattering, complementary to the warm undertones found in all shades of red hair, says Cantor. Even purple hues, be it a violet eyeliner or plum lipstick, work, since purple has a mix of warm and cool undertones, he adds.
In short, redheads really can’t go wrong when it comes to choosing a flattering makeup color. But if you’re looking for some help selecting your shades, keep reading for our favorite product picks.
The Best Eyeshadow for Red Hair
Prefer a more subdued eye look? Opt for any type of neutral or nude shade that has warmer undertones. Want to make a little bit more of a statement? Greens, teals, and blues provide a nice contrast to your hair color and will really pop, especially if you have lighter eyes, says Cantor. Two to try:
Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow in Introvert
This neutral hue is the perfect pink-y beige for everyday. Not to mention that the formula also boasts serious staying power, with up to 12 hours of wear time.
About-Face Shadowstick in In Dreams
Super easy to apply, this pigmented stick also packs a serious color punch, and the rich teal hue pops on redheads. Also nice: It can be used as either a shadow or a liner.
The Best Blush for Red Hair
“Redheads should choose a warm, peach-toned blush,” says Cantor. “That hint of peach flatters the orange and red tones in the hair.” Two to try:
L’Oréal Paris Glow Paradise Lip & Cheek Tint in Ethereal Blush
This weightless formula is ideal when you want just a sheer wash of dewy and fresh color on your cheeks (or lips —it works equally well on both). Blend it in with your fingertips, layering on more product if you want a little bit more of an opaque finish.
Beauty Pie Supercheek Cream Blush in Fresh Faced
We love that this cream blush offers a matte finish, choice for those who don’t love a glowy look. Still, it melts beautifully into skin to create a totally natural-looking flush, and can be easily built-up or sheered out.
The Best Eyebrow Product Shade for Red Hair
The key to finding the most flattering shade of your brow product of choice? It should be a shade or two lighter than your hair color and have cooler undertones, advises Cantor. Anything that has any orange in it will look fake, he adds. Two to try:
Maybelline New York Brow Precise Micro Eyebrow Pencil in Auburn
The teeny-tiny tip on this twist-up pencil (read: no sharpening required) is perfect for filling in and defining even the smallest spots on your brows. Use it to draw on small, hair-like strokes, then flip it over and use the included spoolie to blend everything together.
NYX Professional Makeup Thick it Stick it! Thickening Brow Gel Mascara in Auburn
A game-changer for those with sparse arches, this contains plant-based fibers to create the appearance of a fuller brow with every swipe. Plus, it imparts the perfect amount of color and helps tame unruly hairs, too.
The Best Lipstick for Red Hair
Yes, redheads can definitely wear red lipstick, but warmer pink hues, such as corals or peach shades, are also a great option, says Cantor. And if you want to try something more out-of-the box, a deep plum hue is also very flattering, he says. Two to try:
Giorgio Armani Lip Power Longwear Satin Lipstick in Splendid
This may look like a lipstick, but it feels like a balm, thanks to a mix of hydrating oils in the base. The color is also incredibly saturated, packing full-on pigment in just one swipe, and has a perfect satin finish that’s neither too shiny nor too matte.
Maybelline New York Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Founder
This cult-classic lippie truly lasts as long as everyone says it does. The budge-proof formula stays on for hours on end (no matter what you eat, drink, or who you kiss, seriously). We also like the unique, arrow-shaped applicator that makes precise application a breeze.
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