The Best Hydrating Red Lipsticks That Taylor Swift Would Totally Approve Of

Photo: Getty Images/Juan Naharro Gimenez
The reigning queen of the red lip—one Ms. Taylor Swift—has proven that a statement-making smile pairs well with all of your fall essentials, from cardigans to the old scarf that's somewhere in a drawer at your ex-boyfriend's sister's house. So in honor of the release of her Red album re-records (Swifties, rejoice!), we rounded up the best, most hydrating red lipsticks that the queen herself would approve of—because we know "All Too Well" that chapped, winter lips are no joke. From waterproof options that will "Stay, Stay, Stay" to "The Lucky One" that will remain in your purse forever, natural shades to big and bold looks, we've got you covered.

Experts In This Article
  • Shirley Chi, MD, board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology

For what it's worth, T. Swift isn't the only one who likes to amp up her autumn style with a bold crimson lip. “Red lipstick is a classic and for fall," says celebrity makeup artist Robert Sesnek.  "I love every shade and texture, from bright glossy '80s to matte retro shades." To find a product that's particularly hydrating—something that's critically important as we approach the drier months of the year—you'll want to be sure the formula includes certain lip-nourishing factors. "There are a few ingredients that when included in lipsticks actually make the lip product moisturizing," Shirley Chi, MD, board-certified dermatologist, previously told Well+Good. "They are petrolatum, shea butter, lanolin, beeswax, and sesame oil." These ingredients are superheroes when it comes to locking in the moisture that is naturally produced on your lips.

As far as application goes, Sesnek suggests starting by lining your lips with red. A shade that exactly matches your lipstick of choice will give you a more seamless look, while one that's a few shades deeper will add some definition. Make sure you're precise as you dab the product onto your lips, blending as you go. When you're done, take a tissue to blot off excess pigment, then reapply another layer for long-wearing results.

Red-y to shop? Scroll down to snag the 10 Taylor-approved, hydrating red lipsticks that you will never want to take off.

10 Taylor Swift red lipsticks to shop ASAP

MAC Ruby Woo Lipglass — $19.00

The queen of all red lips has to be MAC’s Ruby Woo. This lip glass iteration goes on like a gloss and stays like a stain while the non-drying formula keeps your lips shiny and hydrated all day (and night) long.

Tatcha Kyoto Red Silk Lipstick — $55.00

This bold red is packed with botanical extracts to hydrate your pout as you wear it. The depth of the color is flattering on all skin tones and the packaging is so luxe, it will practically look like a piece of art on your vanity.

Catrice Power Plumping Gel Lipstick — $8.00

Filled with hyaluronic acid for prime hydration, this orange-y red shade is lightweight, feels like gel when you apply it, has long-lasting staying power, and comes with added plumping benefits. It’s a multi-hyphenate, just like T-Swift herself.

Nars Afterglow Lip Balm — $28.00

Filled with antioxidants to protect your lips against natural aggressors, this tinted balm packs a punch when it comes to color. As far as hydrating benefits go, the inclusion of monoi in the formula will help keep your lips nourished for the long-haul.

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Shine Lipstick Balm — $38.00

This medium-coverage lipstick feels just as glam as it looks. Infused with six natural oils for balm-like comfort, antioxidant-rich pomegranate extract and moisturizing macadamia butter are there to soothe, nourish, and comfort your lips while you wear.

Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick — $34.00

This lipstick serves double duty because it provides a burst of color while also protecting your lips from UV damage. The bright color is long-lasting and feels cashmere soft on your lips.

Glossier Ultralip — $18.00

Called “the cashmere sweatpant of lipstick,” the brand notes that this conditioning lipstick has the “rich moisture of a balm, the sheen of a gloss, and the buildable color of a lip tint, without the hassle of layering multiple products.”

Ilia Color Block Lipstick — $28.00

This long-wear creamy lipstick is bold and bright. The smooth texture feels great to apply and doesn’t dry out your lips after a few hours of wear.

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm — $19.00

Packed with mango and shea butters, this tinted lib balm moisturizes your lips, leaving them smooth and nourished while giving them a pop of color.

Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm — $16.00

This light coverage, cream formula is both buildable and hydrating, so you can get a sheer pop of color one day and a bold lip the next. The best part is that the dewey finish and application make it feel like a balm.

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