The Best Makeup Looks to Try If You’re a Redhead, According to a Celebrity Makeup Artist

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Q: I am a natural redhead and have a lot of freckles from being in the sun from when I was little. I've been reading a lot about how to make my makeup look better. Honestly, I'm tired of brown!!! But I have problems finding a good look to go with my naturally curly red hair. Any tips? — Niki

A: Niki, there are SO many alternatives for red hair! I'm totally happy to be able to give you a few new suggestions. 

First, let me say, I would kill for a head of natural curly red hair! Second, you can ditch the browns—you have a world of options. 

Red Lipstick

I love red lips on redheads. Think: Julianne Moore.

Depending on your colour of red hair, you may want to choose a cool-toned, blue-red such as Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lip Colour in Pirate.

If you want to play up the warm tones in your hair and skin, choose a red with yellow undertones like Bryce Dallas Howard's.

Dior Rouge Dior Lipstick in Trafalgar is a red like this, with a hint of orange.

Pink and Berry Lipstick

For another cool-toned effect, you can also opt for pink like Emma Stone.

Try Bobbi Brown Luxe Lip Color in Hot Rose.

Or a raspberry colour like Isla Fisher.

Try Tom Ford Matte Lip Color in Plum Lush. 

Orange and Coral Lipstick

For an even bolder look, try a bright orange like Amy Adams.

MAC Lipstick in Morange is a bright, creamy orange.

You can never go wrong with a coral, as seen on Christina Hendricks, for a softer look.

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Juliette is a pretty pinky coral.

Jewel Toned Eye Makeup

For your eyes, jewel tones look amazing on redheads and are a great alternative to brown. 

If you want to use a liner, you can always choose a greenish, purplish or blueish kohl pencil. I'm not suggesting '80s brights, but more of a dark liner with an undertone of colour. 

MAC Eye Kohls are my absolute favourite, such as Prunella. 

This also applies to eyeshadow colours. If you want to try them for a smoky eye or even just for everyday makeup, the greens, blues and purples work so well with your colouring and are very different from brown.

Try Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette Colour-Coded Eyeshadow Palette in The Glamour Muse or The Rebel.

Have fun playing with all your new options! 

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Sabrina Rinaldi is a Toronto- and Montreal-based hair and makeup artist.