Houston – The holidays are here, and that means one thing for beauty lovers: it’s time to hunt down the perfect red lip. With so many shades and finishes out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why professional makeup artist Darcie Teasley stopped by Houston Life to break it all down.
Before conquering a red lip, it all starts with prep. Here’s what Darcie that is the best canvas for a big, bold red lip.
Teasley says most red lip colors fall into two groups: warm and cool. She explains that medium to dark complexions often shine in cooler ruby tones, while fair to medium complexions may find warmer reds more flattering. Still, she reminds people that makeup isn’t about rules. “Do whatever makes you happy.”
For many, the intimidation comes from how bold a true red can be. Teasley’s advice is to simplify the process by understanding undertones and choosing a finish that feels comfortable. Not everyone wants a full-coverage matte, so she recommends glossy or sheer reds for anyone easing into the look.
While demonstrating techniques on set, Teasley shared a few practical tips. A brown lip liner is one of her go-to products for creating dimension because most people already have one in their makeup bag. She also stresses the importance of prepping the lips. A quick scrub and a touch of hydration, like Aquaphor, can make a red lipstick glide on smoothly and stay put longer.
Teasley created a dimensional matte red look on Houston Life co-host Tessa Barrera using a mix of brown liner and a true red liquid lipstick. She finished the lip with a touch of glitter, activated with setting spray on a fluffy brush, to give it a festive shine. According to Teasley, a red lip not only elevates any outfit but also brightens the complexion on camera and in person.
The segment wrapped with a preview of another holiday look by adding a sheer glossy red on her model, Dorothy Steen. This is for those who want to be bold but not to draw too much attention.
Remember, there’s no rules to makeup. Do and wear what you’re comfortable with and find a red that works for you. The goal is to feel confident and have a little fun along the way.