TikTok's Red Lip Theory Explained + Expert Beauty Tips

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Trend expert Jemaree Jay goes over the two red lipstick theories trending on TikTok

Co-authored by Jemaree Jay and Bailey Cho

Last Updated: March 16, 2026 Fact Checked

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• TikTok’s “Red Lipstick Theory” Explained
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• Is the theory true?
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• Getting the Perfect Red Lip
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• Historical Significance of Red Lipstick
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• Video

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If you’ve been seeing the viral red lipstick theory on TikTok, you’re not alone! It’s the latest beauty hack and psychological idea taking over the app, and we’re here to break it down for you. In this article, we conducted an interview with a trend expert to explain what the red lipstick theory is, including whether it works and the historical significance of red lipstick. Makeup artists also partnered with us to share exclusive tips on getting the perfect red lip for your skin tone.

The Red Lipstick Theory: Quick Overview

Trend expert Jemaree Jay says the red lipstick theory suggests that wearing red lipstick makes your skin appear more even. Since red is so bold, people are immediately drawn to the lips, ignoring blemishes and discoloration. Psychologically, the theory implies that wearing red lipstick can boost your confidence.

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Section 1 of 4:

What’s the “red lipstick theory” on TikTok?

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   The red lipstick theory claims that wearing red lipstick can improve your skin tone. As Jay explains, the theory states that wearing red lipstick without any other makeup can help your face look more even because people are so distracted by your red lips. Since the color red is so bold and vibrant, people are immediately drawn to your lips, ignoring the broader details of your face (including minor blemishes, discoloration, and other skin imperfections).

   • Who started the red lipstick theory? Alexis Androulakis of @thelipsticklesbians explained the theory in this TikTok video, stating, “If you are wearing nothing on your face, nothing but a red lipstick, your skin will look more even because you’ve drawn people’s attention to the red lip.” She commented that she got the theory from makeup artist Lisa Eldridge’s book Face Paint: The Story of Makeup.
   • TikTok videos testing the red lipstick theory: Androulakis’ red lipstick theory audio went viral on the app, starting a trend. Jay notes that many women have tested the theory out by applying red lipstick with no other makeup. The first viral video came from TikToker @maj.beauty, who tested the theory using Kosas’ Hotliner in the shade “Extra.” Here are other trending videos to check out:
     • TikTok user @Glamzilla uses MAC Cosmetics’ Lip Pencil Liner in “Cherry” and the MACximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in “Left on Red” in this video.
     • TikTok user @bexcxmpbell also uses MAC Cosmetics’ Lip Pencil Liner in “Cherry,” along with Gucci Beauty’s 509 Rosso Ancora Lipstick in this video.
     • TikTok user @beautybyminks wears L'Oréal Infallible Matte Resistance Liquid Lipstick in “Le Rouge Paris” in this video.
     • TikTok user @erinduganjurchak applies Pat McGrath’s LiquiLUST™: Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in “Elson” in this video.

   Meet the wikiHow Experts

   Jemaree Jay is a trend expert who creates content that breaks down Gen Z identity, internet culture, race-based archetypes, and friend group dynamics.

   Katya Gudaeva is a professional makeup artist and the founder of Bridal Beauty Agency based in Seattle, Washington.

   Lindsey Myers is a color analysis expert and the founder and CEO of Created Colorful, a company that teaches their clients their best colors.

   Janet Miranda is a professional hair stylist, makeup artist, and the founder of Be.NYLA. She has over 15 years of experience.
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   The theory also says wearing red lipstick makes you appear more confident and attractive. Jay explains that the color red is associated with power and love, so when you wear red lipstick, people may subconsciously associate you with those concepts as well. Because of this, wearing red lipstick can be a powerful tool to command attention, boosting your self-esteem and overall attractiveness.

   • Studies show that women wearing red lipstick are considered more capable and confident in professional settings.
   • Research also shows that men are more attracted to women wearing red lipstick and are more likely to approach them in social settings.
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Section 2 of 4:

Does the “red lipstick theory” actually work?

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   Many people say the red lipstick theory works, as long as you pick the right shade. In this TikTok video, Alexis Androulakis of @thelipsticklesbians explains how red lipstick can “magically” even out your skin tone. She says, “Red actually is the color that has the longest wavelength of any other color, so subconsciously, humans perceive red differently than other colors—it is most vibrant.” Wearing red lipstick, especially with little to no makeup, makes the lips the focal point of your look. That said, it’s important to find the right shade that complements your skin tone (which we’ll cover below)!

   • Some people aren’t convinced the theory works, especially on darker skin tones or those with severe acne or rosacea. TikTok user @ehlieluna explains in this video how red lipstick can actually worsen the appearance of hyperpigmentation around the mouth for black people.
   • Psychologically, many studies suggest that the red lipstick theory is true. Wearing a bold color can shift your mindset and make you feel stronger, especially in stressful or high-stakes situations like interviews. Additionally, red lipstick increases facial contrast, making you look younger and more attractive to others.

Section 3 of 4:

How to Get the Perfect Red Lip

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   Choose the right shade of red lipstick. In general, cool tones of red lipstick make your teeth appear whiter, notes professional makeup artist Katya Gudaeva. However, there is no substitute for physically swatching colors on your skin, says color analysis expert Lindsey Myers. “If you’re uncertain about your undertones, start by testing different shades and observing patterns. If bright, warm colors don’t suit you, try cooler shades.” Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right shade:

   • Fair or light skin: Go for cool-toned reds, such as blue-red, raspberry, or cherry.
   • Medium or olive skin: Look for warm-toned reds with orange undertones, such as brick red or rust.
   • Dark or deep skin: Opt for rich, deep reds and berry tones, such as maroon, burgundy, wine, or merlot.
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   Prep your pout for a smooth application. Gently exfoliate your lips with a DIY or ready-made lip scrub, massaging it in circular motions and then wiping off the excess product. This will help remove any dead skin cells so your lipstick goes on evenly. Then, apply a thin layer of lip balm or petroleum jelly to restore moisture.

   • To make a DIY lip scrub, mix equal parts olive oil and white sugar in a bowl until a paste forms. You can also combine one part honey and 2 parts sugar to make a honey lip scrub.
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   Line your lips and then fill in the color. Use the very tip of the red lipstick to outline your lips, or use a separate red lip liner. Once you’ve lined your lips, apply a thin, even layer of red lipstick to fill in the color. You can go back and layer more lipstick until you achieve the desired saturation. Professional makeup artist Janet Miranda recommends applying the lipstick with a lip brush for better control.

   • When testing out the red lipstick theory, it works best if you wear little to no makeup. For a minimal look, spot conceal, curl your lashes, and apply a thin coat of mascara.
   • If you don’t have a lip brush, you can always use your fingers to apply the lipstick, notes Miranda. However, you should definitely prep with a lip balm to make blending easier, she continues.
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Section 4 of 4:

Historical Significance of Red Lipstick

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   Historically, red lipstick has represented power, defiance, and femininity. During the early 20th century, red lipstick was handed out to suffragettes marching in New York, turning it into a symbol of independent, rebellious women. The Suffragette Movement was a campaign for women’s right to vote, and some ladies wore lipstick to public events to gain more attention for their cause. Here’s a quick overview of the history and importance of red lipstick:

   • Ancient Egypt: The ancient Egyptians made red lipstick from crushed red bugs, and it was used to signal power and status.
   • Ancient Greece: By law, prostitutes were required to wear red lipstick so they wouldn’t be confused for respectable women of the upper class.
   • World War II: Red lipstick was considered a symbol of patriotism and resistance to fascism. Since Hitler hated red lipstick, it was worn in defiance, with shades like “Victory Red” created for the war effort.
   • Golden Age of Hollywood: With the rise of silent films and the flapper movement in the 1920s, red lipstick began to represent a woman’s sexuality.

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