Beauty Basics: Long-Wearing Red Lipstick Step-by-Step

All women look beautiful in red lipstick - really, you do! It's avoiding big no-no's (like pairing a crimson pout with lip gloss) that can make the difference between a sexy scarlet smacker and, well, Bozo the Clown. Here, makeup artist Carmindy has easy tips on how to score perfect, long-lasting red lips every time.

Carmindy's Tip: How to find your perfect shade of red? Swipe a red lipstick on a piece of white paper to see its undertone - blue, orange or true red. Those with fair skin should use reds with blue undertones, medium skin should use reds with orange undertones, dark skin should use true reds, and redheads should go for tomato and brick reds.

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STEP 1: Lip Stain

The most important step is to use a lip stain. Brush the liquid all over your lips to give a light, red tone base color. Lip stains are a secret weapon to long lasting lips, but are often overlooked because they're not as popular as lipstick or lip liner. These stains are made of liquid pigments that adhere directly to the lips. Since they're not in a creamy base, like lipstick, they stay put much longer - hence their name!

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STEP 2: Lip Liner

Top off the lip stain with a red lip liner pencil. First, outline your pout, following the rims of your lips. Then, fill them in with the same pencil.

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STEP 3: Lipstick

Apply your red lipstick to the entire lip, using a lip liner brush for extra precision.

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STEP 4: Edge with Foundation

To polish off your lips and make the lipstick application look perfect, dip a concealer brush in a little bit of foundation, and trace it around the lips.

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FINAL LOOK

These steps create a perfect, flawless red lip that's going to last all night long. When wearing such a powerful lip look, keep the rest of your face fresh and natural. Also, never gloss on top of a red lipstick - the bold, beautiful color is enough to make a gorgeous statement.

Mat Swajkos for AOL