news | March 30, 2026

How To Recreate Rihanna's Stunning Dark Red Lipstick Look

In a video for People's "How It's Done" series, Fenty Beauty's global makeup artist Priscilla Ono revealed the secret behind Rihanna's gorgeous red lipstick look. There's a lot of prep work involved before the lipstick goes on. In the video, Ono first applies Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Primer to minimize pores and control shine before blending Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation past the jawline. The makeup artist told Elle that primer should always come first because it lengthens your makeup's longevity. She then goes in with highlighter and blush. 

Now, for the moment of truth: Ono shared with People that before painting Rihanna's lips her signature red shade, she exfoliates. "Whenever putting on any lip color, but especially with a liquid formula, you have to make sure the lips are exfoliated first to remove any flakes or dead skin," she told the outlet. "You don't want the color to catch onto any dry patches which would make the lips look uneven. Just like your face, lip care is just as important to ensure a smooth application!"

Ono also recommends Fenty Beauty's Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer for plump and nourished lips, per Elle. Just one swipe and your pout will be kiss-ready.