Kanebo Sensai The Lipstick (Hiwada 10)

It's quite a statement when a brand names one of it lipsticks The Lipstick, and once I tried The Lipstick from Sensai by Kanebo it was quite clear why they think it deserves the title. I find that the lipsticks I use the most are the ones that not only provide a gorgeous color and pretty shiny finish, but also keep my lips soft and moisturized throughout the day and would never ever end up as a leftover pigment on pruny looking lips.

This Kanebo Sensai lipstick offers one of the greatest textures you can find on the market. The rich pigment doesn't betray the fact that this is probably just as much a skincare product as a makeup item, which gives both immediate and lingering results. When I use the lipstick for a couple of consecutive days (hey, it happens), I see a difference in the level of plumpness and smoothness. I've been testing this lipstick for months now (the date on the earlier photos I took is from October) and it performed beautifully on the harshest winter days.

Hiwada is a very warm red.with a slightly orange-brown base. It's bold and dramatic and requires you to make sure your skin is in the smoothest, clearest shape possible (go for the whole shebang and don't skip anything: primer, foundation, concealer and light-diffusing powder). Keep the eye makeup minimal- mascara, eyeliner and nude-looking lids. Think of Dita Von Teese when she's off-stage and you'll get it right.

Bottom line: Red carpet-worthy.

Kanebo Sensai The Lipstick ($55) is available from Bergdorf Goodman online and in store and Neiman Marcus (online only). You can also order through the company's website and have a consultant call you to make sure you're getting the best product for you. The company's PR provided me with a free press sample.

All photos are mine. Model: Lizzy.