Science shows why red lippy has psychological power and makes you look younger

Red lipstick is a beauty essential, and as Marilyn Monroe famously said “a smile is the best make-up any girl can wear”. Now scientists have proven there are psychological benefits to wearing red lipstick, such as making you seem younger and more capable.

A recent study by psychologists at Gettysburg College in America has proven that wearing red lipstick creates a youthful appearance. Women wearing red lipstick will demonstrate a stronger contrast between their skin and lip colours, which is a feature typically associated with youth.

“The redness contrast between lips and the rest of the face decreases with age, and that certainly is something that can be manipulated with make-up”, explained the lead psychologist Richard Russell.

Meanwhile, Harvard University researchers found that women who wear bold makeup are perceived as more likeable and competent. “There are times when you want to give a powerful ‘I’m in charge here’ kind of impression, and women shouldn’t be afraid to do that”, explained scientist Sarah Vickery.

Better yet, red lipstick will help you feel more confident personally. A separate Harvard survey found that women who wear red lipstick take twice as many photographs, when compared to women who prefer a natural look. The same women in red reported having higher self-esteem.

Finally, a study published by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology confirmed what we’ve always thought – red lipstick makes women more desirable to the opposite sex.

Researchers found that women in red are perceived as more attractive and sexually desirable, by a majority of men surveyed. For women who don’t like wearing lipstick though, the good news is that similar attractiveness can be achieved by wearing a red blouse or scarf.

They’re all compelling reasons to bring your favourite red lipstick out of retirement!

Does wearing red lipstick make you feel more confident? What’s your favourite shade of lippy?