In need of a confidence boost? Try red lipstick

Red lipstick is timeless and when applied well, your lips can look amazing. This is one aspect of makeup that flatters all ages, face shapes, and races. You could be 13 or 99 years old, and you'll still look amazing. The secret is in finding the right shade and formulation for you.

Lipsticks, like our skin, have undertones, therefore there's a perfect red for everyone. If your skin colour is warm or has a yellow undertone, an orange-red would suit you. If you're dark or have a blue undertone, then go for a burgundy-red. If you're fair, then go for a blue-red, or pinky-red. A shade that is too pale will make you look sickly, while a shade that is too dark may give you a "trashy" appearance.

In your search for the perfect red, keep in mind the formulation that would be best suited to you. Are you more comfortable with a liquid, a lip stain, matte, gloss, or just a lip pencil? If you do use a lip stain, remember to moisturise your lips every hour. I have personally steered clear of red lipstick, until I found my perfect shade. Since then, I keep looking for opportunities to enjoy my red lipstick.

Step 1 – Exfoliate lips Lipstick tends to emphasise all your flaws, therefore it's important to get rid of any dead skin. Exfoliate your lips using an edible scrub such as sugar with olive oil, or brush your lips with a spare toothbrush after loading them with petroleum jelly. Rub gently for about a minute and then rinse and pat dry.

Step 2 - Moisturise Hydrated lips will make the lipstick more comfortable to wear as the application will be smoother. Drink plenty of water and use a moisturising lip balm as needed. Remember to use lip balm more often than lip gloss, as the latter can also be drying.

Step 4 - Line your lips Using a lip liner prevents the colour from bleeding, helping you get a neat and beautiful result. Find a lip liner that is the same shade as your lipstick or slightly darker. Line your moisturised lips and then fill them in completely. This will bring out the richness of the colour and help it last longer. Filling in with a lip liner is optional depending on the look you want to achieve.

Step 5 - Apply colour Use a lip brush to apply colour and cover every corner of your lips.

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Step 6 – Blot Blot your lips with a tissue and then apply another coat. This gives your lipstick lasting power. Blot again.

Step 7 – Check your teeth Put your index finger in your mouth and close your lips around it, and the pull out. This will remove the lipstick from the inside of your lips, thereby preventing it from sticking onto your teeth. You can repeat this process as needed, and you'll notice that the excess lipstick comes off on your finger.

Step 8 – Seal Seal the lipstick with a dusting of powder. Press your lips together and apply powder to the edges to prevent bleeding. This will also help you to avoid leaving lipstick stains on glasses or mugs.

When wearing red lipstick, remember to keep the rest of your makeup simple. Don't shy away from moisturising your lips with a non greasy lip balm during the day as needed. If you use matte lipstick regularly, use a hydrating lip balm every night before you sleep.