Me and red lipstick go way back. From the time I was just a kid, digging around in my mother's Fashion Fair makeup, I've always reached for the boldest lip colors. There's something magical about twisting the lipstick holder and seeing that bright bullet. But after 20-something years of wearing makeup, I've met the most terrifying shade of red lipstick.
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Black Metal Dahlia Lip Tar is unlike any other lip product I've encountered. If the name sounds strangely familiar, that is because it's tied to the 1947 murder victim Elizabeth Short. Gruesome historical context aside, this dark lip color boasts a burgundy hue with flecks of red pearl that is hauntingly beautiful.
Even though it was a bit intimidating inside the tube, I decided to take a chance. 
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Black Metal Dahlia Lip Tar, $18, OCCMakeup.com
I was given a stern warning by HuffPost Live makeup artist Kari Bauce before even applying this lip tar to make sure that my lips were chapped-free and non-greasy. The pigment has the tendency to make dry skin more noticeable and bleed to the outer corners of the lip.
I used the small brush that came with it to put on the lip color. The intensity of the shimmering shade was immediately apparent, and I learned fast that a little goes long way. (No wonder the brush is so darn tiny.)
While a nude or matching burgundy lip liner would help to make for an even, flawless finish, I found that the slanted angle of the lip brush was all I needed. As far as staying power, the Black Metal Dahlia Lip Tar didn't budge all day after eating and drinking, which brought about a lot of compliments and questions as to which amazing lipstick I was wearing.
Rating: 4 out of 5. Wearing this lip color may require more prep work than usual, but the beautiful finish makes it all worth it.
Dark lip inspiration:
Dark Lips
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