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For those of us in the habit of hoarding beauty products beyond their expiration date, lipstick — yes even above mascara and body lotion — is something we’re never in short supply of; including lipsticks. Now, there are matte lipsticks, liquid lipsticks, tinted lip balms, lip stains and the list goes on; but our hearts will always hold a special place for red lipsticks.
We love a good red lipstick makeup look, especially one that’ll complete our Christmas makeup look. It’s no wonder we’re constantly rotating tubes in and out of our stash or daily routines — there’s a lot to choose from. Red is that hue, meaning we’ve always got one on hand, regardless of where it falls on the spectrum of pink to blue undertones.
In honor of the holiday season, we’re on the hunt for the best of the best (on a budget)! We’ve rounded up the best under-$20 options that cover all shades of red (including one red lipstick that Taylor Swift often wore).
Whether it’s a bright red with pink undertones or a dark classic red, there’s something sure to flatter your complexion this season and beyond. Choose wisely.
Originally posted on StyleCaster on Dec 2018.
Makeup Revolution Lip Allure Soft Satin Lipstick in Brick Red: $8
The Makeup Revolution Lip Allure Soft Satin Lipstick in Brick Red is a silky soft, true red lipstick that works on nearly every skin tone.
r.e.m. beauty On Your Collar Classic Lipstick in attention: $19.00
Ariana Grande’s beauty brand r.e.m. beauty has a lipstick that is a red-lipstick-loving must. The On Your Collar Classic Lipstick in attention is a bright blue red that lets you get juicy, glossy lips.
“Such a bold red! It was so easy to put on and evenly apply on my lips,” one shopper said.
ULTA Beauty Collection Luxe Lipstick in Red Carpet Red 320: $10
The ULTA Beauty Collection Luxe Lipstick in Red Carpet Red 320 is a slight berry red with shimmers, making it the perfect, wearable red.
“One of my favorite lipsticks,” one shopper said. “One of my favorite lipsticks I ever purchased and would definitely buy it again.”
Morphe 2 Good Talk Blotted Matte Lipstick in Sunset Red: $9
The Morphe 2 Good Talk Blotted Matte Lipstick in Sunset Red is a vibrant, moisturizing orange red that is the epitome of sunshine vibes.
“Perfect in every way! Shape, size, pigmentation, texture,” one shopper said.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Shout Loud Satin Lipstick in Opinionated: $8.50
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ‘s Shout Loud Satin Lipstick in Opinionated is a satin, burnt orange red that looks so gorgeous on warmer skin tones.
“Excellent color for autumn color pallete,” one shopper said. “I was looking for the perfect red lipstick fot my skin tone (deep autumn) and I found it. Beautiful color!”
Milani Color Fetish Matte Lipstick in Poppy: $9
Milani Color Fetish Matte Lipstick in Poppy is a super-opaque blue-toned lipstick that leaves you with full, vibrant lips.
“Smooth and beautiful matte finish. Highly pigmented. My new favorite lipstick! Beautiful color,” one shopper said.
Rimmel London lasting finish extreme lipstick in Dat Red: $3
The Rimmel London lasting finish extreme lipstick in Dat Red is a bold, long-lasting true red lipstick.
One shopper said, “This color is everything. I have high end and low end lippies and this one is perfect. Nice color, nice feel.”
Black Radiance Perfect Tone Lipstick in Reggae Red: $2.29
The Black Radiance Perfect Tone Lipstick in Reggae Red is a deep, glossy burnt red that gives you moisturized lips.
“I wanted a super red stick and this was it! Love this product,” one shopper said.
e.l.f. O Face Satin Lipstick in No Regrets: $9
The e.l.f. O Face Satin Lipstick in No Regrets is a bold, neutral-toned lipstick that’s perfect for any occasion.
“I bought “No Regrets.” My expectations were low, as I usually spend a decent amount of money on lipstick. I was hoping it might replacement red Nars lipstick, and dare I say, it’s better,” one shopper said.
Lime Crime Soft Touch Lipstick in Radical Red: $15
Lime Crime’s Soft Touch Lipstick in Radical Red is a matte, budge-proof red lipstick that has deep blue undertones.
“My go-to bullet lipstick formula,” one shopper said. “I love Radical Red for a classic statement lip. I find the formula very comfortable on me.”
Winky Lux Matte Lip Velour Lipstick in Dirty Love: $16
The Winky Lux Matte Lip Velour Lipstick in Dirty Love is a burnt red lipstick with warm undertones and has a lightweight feel to it.
“This my favorite lipstick ever. Goes well with my skin tone and not super drying like other matte lipsticks. I have dry lips and cannot wear most matte lipsticks. Winky Lux’s Velour lipsticks are matte yet hydrating and very pigmented, so a little goes a long way. Worth the money.” one shopper said.
Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick in Inspire: $20
The Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick in Inspire may be at the cap for $20, but it’s so worth it. Not only is this Gomez’s go-to shade, it is a budge-proof, bright, coral red that looks beautiful on warmer skin tones!
“I LOVEEEE IT😍, you needdd it , i lasts me alll day and i really love that and it feels amazing, when you put it on you’ll never feel your lips dry , u only need to put a little bit because it’s really pigmented , love it,” one shopper said.
KIKO Milano Jelly Stylo in 509: $13.50
Okay, we know, you’re probably like: “This is a nude?!” It’s not, don’t worry! The KIKO Milano Jelly Stylo in 509 is a moisturizing, terracotta red lipstick with a glossy finish, making it the perfect muted red to wear any time of the day.
“This is my new favorite lippie! The pigment is AMAZING and it feels more like a creamier lip balm. It has a nice shine and it’s more than worth it’s price point! I hope you love it as much as I do,” one shopper said.
FLOWER Beauty Petal Pout Lip Color in Poppy Pout: $9
Drew Barrymore’s brand FLOWER Beauty has a Petal Pout Lip Color lipstick in the shade Poppy Pout, which is a vibrant and rich coral red!
“Luxury dupe,” one shopper said. “They compete and in many ways surpass my Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford and Charolette Tilbury. Moisturizing and super flattering.”
Essence This Is Nude Lipstick in Happy: $4
Okay, so we know this Essence This Is Nude Lipstick in Happy looks more pink and nude, but it’s actually a light berry red! This is a semi-matte lipstick with the perfect red hue for easy, everyday wear.
“Firstly, this lipstick applies like butter. It is super silky smooth. It is very comfortable to wear, not feeling thick or dry at all. I would compare how it feels, to IT Cosmetics Blurred Lines Lipstick that has been discontinued,” one shopper said.
Maybelline Color Sensational Made for All Lipstick in Red for Me: $7.49
The Maybelline Color Sensational Made for All Lipstick in Red for Me is a classic, creamy red lipstick that can work with virtually any skin tone!
“ARE YOU RED-DY! This is my go-to lipstick for many years. It’s the PERFECT shade of red,” one shopper said.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Original Hydrating Satin Lipstick in British Red: $10
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Original Hydrating Satin Lipstick in British Red is a hydrating, warm-toned lipstick made with argan oil and vitamin E.
One shopper said, “I purchased the British Red for a Halloween costume with no intention to use it after the occasion (I never wore red lipstick… ever), however, I loved the color so much I now use it at least once a week. It’s a classic red that has great consistency when applying and doesn’t need too much reapplication especially because it tints your lips nicely.”
Juvia’s Place The Reds Cherry Velvety Matte Lipstick in The Perfect Red: $15.00
The Juvia’s Place The Reds Cherry Velvety Matte Lipstick in The Perfect Red is a blue-red lipstick packed with hyaluronic acid for a smooth, hydrated feel.
One shopper said, “The color looks great on me. I do a great job of matching. This felt good on my lips and last for a long time.”
BLK/OPL Risqué Matte Lipstick in Rich Red: $10.75
BLK/OPL Risqué Matte Lipstick in Rich Red is a pigmented, velvety red lipstick with a rich, cool-toned berry color to it.
“This is the best lipstick every! Has squalane and sunflower oil so my lips are so very happy. Glad now we can get it at Ulta,” one shopper said.
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Super Red: $10
The Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Super Red is a staple lipstick in thousands of shoppers’s routines. The warm-toned lipstick gives you a softer, fuller-looking pout thanks to its buildable properties.
“Moist, Lustrous, and Staying Power,” one shopper said. “People raved about this lipstick, so I decided to try it, and I’m glad I did.”
wet n wild Silk Finish Lipstick in Cherry Frost Red: $1.30
wet n wild Silk Finish Lipstick in Cherry Frost Red is a rich, creamy lipstick that has cooler to neutral undertones.
“The Wet n Wild Silk Finish Lipstick in Cherry Frost Red is a true gem. Its rich, buildable color, impressive longevity, and hydrating formula make it a top-notch choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stunning lip color. I can confidently say that this lipstick has earned its spot as one of my all-time favorites,” one shopper said.
COVERGIRL Katy Kat Matte Lipstick in Crimson Cat: $5.13
COVERGIRL Katy Kat Matte Lipstick in Crimson Cat is a creamy, moisturizing lipstick with a cool undertone.
One shopper said, “Super affordable, great pigmentation, and very moisturizing on the lips!”
Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick in Scarlet Soaked: $9.79
The Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lipstick in Scarlet Soaked is a long-lasting, deep red lipstick with warm undertones. It gets its satin texture thanks to the ingredients of beeswax, raspberry, and moringa oil.
“This is the perfect red for me and I will this every. single. day. It’s a deep red that isn’t too bright nor too deep for daily wear (at least in my opinion). It’s a little bold but a natural hue. I always have this on hand,” one shopper said.
L.A. Colors Moisture Rich Lip Color in Cherry Red: $2.50
The L.A. Colors Moisture Rich Lip Color in Cherry Red is a vibrant, smoothing red lipstick that works with any undertone.
“It goes on smooth, nice texture, and has no bad taste. The shade is a cherry popsicle opaque with a tiny hint of orange. It’s a vibrant red that would look good at a black-tie event with a simple messy updo and subtle makeup. It just has that classic appeal,” one shopper said.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Enamel Red: $8
The L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Enamel Red is glossy lipstick for those days when you want a high-shine finish instead of the more popular matte.
“Shiny and juicy,” one shopper said. “Enamel Red is surprisingly pigmented.”
MAC Mini MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo: $15.00
The MAC Mini MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo is an iconic red everyone should try at least once, and it’s beloved by so many celebrities!
“This is a bright, bold and beautiful lipstick! I love bright trendy colors! Like most lipsticks it still eventually comes off and you have to reapply but it a fun color and I get tons of compliments,” one shopper said.”
Maybelline New York Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick in Rebel Red: $5
The Maybelline New York Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid Lipstick in Rebel Red is a vibrant red liquid lipstick that’s not only $5, but it dries to a matte coral-red that’ll warm warm-toned skin glow.
Palladio Herbal Matte Lipstick in Red Carpet: $9
Palladio Herbal Matte Lipstick in Red Carpet is a darker, warm-toned red lipstick that’s quite vitamin rich, packed with ingredients like aloe, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
Almay Lip Vibes Lipstick in Love Yourself: $5
So the Almay Lip Vibes Lipstick in Love Yourself is another rich, warm lipstick that’s packed with vitamins, but it’s actually a must for sensitive skin!
REVLON ColorStay Limitless Matte Liquid Lipstick in Top Talent: $12
REVLON ColorStay Limitless Matte Liquid Lipstick in Top Talent is an affordable, highly pigmented liquid lipstick that is the most red shade of red we’ve ever seen.
Maybelline Super Stay Vinyl Ink in Fire Engine Red: $11
Maybelline Super Stay Vinyl Ink in Fire Engine Red is exactly as it sounds: it’s a fire engine red lipstick that’ll last all day. It has up to 16 hour wear, and is as saturated as it gets.
COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Cream Lipstick in Real Red: $4
COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Cream Lipstick in Real Red is a neutral, creamy lipstick that is perfect for those who love a good classic red lip. Plus,it’s not sticky, Dermatologist tested, and doesn’t feather out.
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lipcolor in Love: $7
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lipcolor in Love may be a bit more of a coral red, but it’s still a stunning matte red liquid lipstick that you can snag for only $7.
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Modern Classic Lipstick in Red Radiance: $17
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Modern Classic Lipstick in Red Radiance is a creamy and lightweight, cool-toned lipstick that gives you intense, long-klasting color; and it’s under $20 for a very limited time.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in Le Rouge Avant-Garde
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Intense Volume Matte Lipstick in Le Rouge Avant-Garde is exactly as it sounds: it’s an intense, matte lipstick that’s packed with hyaluronic acid for optimal moisture.
Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Exhilarator: $11
Yes, another gorgeous liquid lipstick that’ll last all day, and is only $11. Introducing the Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Exhilarator, which is a warm-toned red.
Lime Crime Velvetines Liquid Matte Lipstick in Feelins: $15
Lime Crime Velvetines Liquid Matte Lipstick in Feelins is a $15 liquid lipstick that’s described as the deepest, truest red; making it a neutral gem for anyone wanting to rock their best red lip ever.
Milani Stay Put Longwear Liquid Lipstick in Red Flag: $10
Milani Stay Put Longwear Liquid Lipstick in Red Flag is a gorgeous warm-toned lipstick that was designed to be smudge-proof, kiss-proof, and fade-resistant.
L.A. Girl Lip Attraction Lipstick in On Fire: $4
L.A. Girl Lip Attraction Lipstick in On Fire is a neutral, semi-gloss lipstick that every lip-lover needs in their makeup routine.
Catkin Semi-Matte Lipstick in CR129: $16
Catkin Semi-Matte Lipstick in CR129 is not onyl one of the most beautiful drugstore lipsticks we’ve ever seen in our lives, but it has so many benefits. It’s a long-lasting, hydrating lipstick packed with pigmented color, avocado oil, and vitamin E.
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