ANJU MODI » fashion designer I have normal to dry skin and I do not believe in using too many cosmetics. However, when I do wear make-up I opt for M.A.C, especially for kajal and lipsticks, as I feel the products are quite safe. I never use soap on my face. I cleanse my face using a scrub from Forest Essentials and then go for the good old Boroline cream. For my hair I just use a Neutrogena shampoo and try to keep it as clean as possible.

I’m fascinated with the current trend of flaunting red lips but unfortunately my upper lip is thinner than the lower lip. How should I wear the lipstick for maximum effect. Also, could you guide me about the kind of make-up I must wear for the rest of the face when sporting red lips.

Bineeta

Red lipstick makes a statement — it exudes confidence, style and sophistication.

Begin by lining the upper lip slightly outside the lip line and the lower lip just inside the lip line. Then when you wear lipstick, try applying a slightly darker shade of red to the lower lip and a lighter shade on top. Ensure the difference in colours is minor otherwise it will end up looking silly. If you have a dark comlexion, and want to tone down the red, you could add a touch of brown.

Always use a lip brush when applying lipstick to uneven lips, because precise application is vital.

Also, ensure that your lip liner pencil is sharp as you need a fine point to achieve precise lines.

Lip liner not only gives definition, but it will help to stop your lipstick from bleeding or feathering — especially with reds and dark colours.

The answer to wearing the right make-up with red lips is to keep it neutral and let your lips do the talking! The red lipstick should be the focal point of your make-up, and everything else should complement it. Stay away from plums or blue eyeshadow because it’ll clash with the red lipstick and look garish.

Just like the eyes, it is important to keep the cheeks neutral and not too pink, plum or brown. This would be a great time to use a bronzer as your cheek colour or a natural peachy pink that’ll go perfectly with your sexy red lipstick.