The Red Lip Effect: Does It Really Attract More Attention? What To Know

Have you noticed that many women in lingerie ads and the characters who seduce people in movies always seem to wear red lipstick? No one can deny that red lips look bold and sexy, making them perfect for dates and nights out when you want to meet some new hotties. Plus, red lipstick is always a good idea when you want to add an instant dose of sex appeal to your look — some may even call this concept the red lip effect.

The red lip effect, according to makeup artist and esthetician Pamela Lesch via a TikTok video, means that wearing red lipstick helps people look sexier and feel more confident, which seems to be accurate. After all, red lipstick is powerful. While there's nothing wrong with natural lips or more subtle hues, red is the most sexual option and does attract more attention. So, next time you want to impress someone, consider a firey lip look. It could help you stand out.

Wearing light pink lipstick can help you look sweet and flirty, black lipstick can make you look edgier or even goth, and an unconventional lip color like blue or green can help you give off wild party animal vibes, but don't forget that red lips are your best bet for succeeding in the seduction game. "Red lips are universally appealing, possibly due to the perceived association with sexual arousal. This can be because it mimics vasodilation," Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist, told Bustle.

Makeup artist and TikToker Ciara Ryan posted a video of an excellent example of the red lip effect. The makeup artist started the video with a more natural look and a somewhat quiet vibe. Then she transitioned to show off her makeup and a bold red lip, switching to a significantly more confident, sultry energy. Many viewers validated the red lip effect theory in the comments. One fellow user said, "This is the most empowering thing I have witnessed this year." "A red lip is so POWERFUL," shared a second person. That said, it's clear the red lip effect is no joke.

The red sex appeal doesn't only apply to lip products. "Red means fire. Red means blood. Red means heart. Red means love. When we get passionate, we get hot, so we think of red," Leslie Harrington, executive director of the Color Association of the United States, told HuffPost. That said, so we can't think of anything better to wear on a date than a well-fitting red dress or top — with sexy red lingerie under it if the date goes in that spicy direction. After all, red is the opposite of any dull color, so by showing up to the date or night out wearing that lively hue, your ensemble will show you want a fun and exciting night and prevent dull energy.

"Wearing red on a first date showcases passion, excitement, and confidence. [It allows] the wearer to stand out and make a memorable impact," Laura Wasser, a relationship expert and chief of divorce evolution at Divorce.com, told Best Life. Think of it like this: perhaps you went on four dates in a month. The first date wore a classic solid black outfit. The second wore a subtle pastel hue. The third wore bright red. And the fourth wore dull gray. Based on clothing alone, who has the advantage to stand out? The person wearing bright red, of course. And finally, don't forget that red makeup isn't limited to lipstick. In other words, why not rock a showstopping red eyeliner look?