Lip Glosses Guide
Color options
Whether you prefer a natural, subtle shimmer or a bold, vibrant hue, there are plenty of options available to choose from. If you're looking for a universally flattering nude shade, the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer is a popular choice. Offering a shimmering rose nude color, it provides a stunning shine without being sticky. For those who prefer a pop of color, the NARS Lip Gloss is a great option. With a range of vibrant shades like 'Turkish Delight' and 'Orgasm', these glosses add instant color and glossy dimension to your lips. Other notable color options include the Milani Keep It Full Nourishing Lip Plumper for a plump effect with a variety of shades, and the NYX Butter Gloss for a sheer yet vibrant color payoff.
Coverage
Coverage refers to how opaque or transparent the lip gloss will appear on your lips. Some people prefer a sheer and natural look, while others may opt for a more intense and bold color. If you're looking for a lip gloss with sheer coverage, Glossier Lip Gloss is a great option as it is formulated with a clear shine and minimal color. For those seeking more vibrant and pigmented shades, Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer offers a high-shine formula with intense color payoff. Additionally, Maybelline Shine Shot Lip Topcoat belongs to a group of lip glosses with a translucent and holographic finish, perfect for adding a unique touch to any lip color.
Glossy finish
If you prefer a glossy finish, there are plenty of options available in the market. One great choice is Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This high-shine lip gloss not only delivers a brilliant, glossy shine but also contains shea butter to keep your lips moisturized throughout the day. Another excellent option is NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss. It offers a luscious, glossy finish while providing a non-sticky formula that is both comfortable to wear and long-lasting. Lastly, those looking for a cruelty-free option can opt for the Bite Beauty Glossy Creme Lip Gloss. This gloss is formulated with an innovative, buildable gel-cream texture to deliver intense, glossy shine without making your lips feel heavy or sticky. It's important to choose a lip gloss that offers the specific finish you desire, as it can greatly enhance your overall makeup look.
Matte finish
For those who prefer a matte finish, there are several great options available on the market. Matte lip glosses offer a velvety texture without any shine or glossiness. They provide a long-lasting and sophisticated look that doesn't smudge easily. A popular matte lip gloss example is 'Anastasia Beverly Hills' - Matte Lip Gloss. Its richly-pigmented formula provides intense color payoff while still being comfortable to wear. Another notable product is 'Fenty Beauty' - Stunna Lip Paint Uncuffed. It offers a soft-matte finish and a weightless feel with its long-wear and smudge-proof formula. These matte lip glosses are ideal for those who want a chic and modern look without any shine.
Longevity
Long-lasting lip glosses tend to have higher adherence on the lips, ensuring that your look stays fresh and vibrant for hours. A great example of such a product is the Maybelline Super Stay 24 Lip Color, which boasts an impressive 24-hour wear. This lip gloss utilizes a two-step system, consisting of a highly pigmented color on one end and a conditioning balm on the other. Another option to consider is the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, known for its long-lasting formula that offers not only high shine but also hydration throughout the day. These lip glosses ensure that your lips remain luscious and glossy without constantly needing reapplication.
Moisturizing properties
Look for lip glosses that contain hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help to replenish moisture and keep your lips soft and supple. One example of a lip gloss that provides exceptional moisturizing properties is the 'Burt's Bees Moisturizing Lip Gloss'. This gloss is formulated with nourishing ingredients like beeswax, sunflower seed oil, and olive fruit oil, which provide intense hydration and long-lasting moisture. Another option to consider is the 'Glossier Lip Gloss', which contains a blend of conditioning agents like jojoba seed oil and vitamin E to keep your lips moisturized and healthy.
Pigmentation
Pigmentation refers to the color intensity and opacity of the gloss when applied to the lips. If you prefer a sheer and natural look, opt for lip glosses with a lighter pigmentation that give a subtle hint of color. Examples of such products include NARS Lip Gloss in "Orgasm", which offers a sheer coral hue, and Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish Gloss in "Dolly", which provides a sheer pink shade. On the other hand, if you desire a bold and vibrant look, go for lip glosses with high pigmentation for an intense splash of color. Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in "Fenty Glow" is a popular option known for its highly pigmented and shimmery formula, while CoverGirl Exhibitionist Lip Gloss in "Berry Behave" delivers rich, opaque color with a glossy finish. Keep in mind that the level of pigmentation can vary across different shades within a single lip gloss line, so thoroughly examining individual specifications and swatches is essential to finding the right pigmentation for your desired look.
Scent
Different lip glosses offer a variety of scents, so it's essential to choose one that suits your preferences. Some popular scents found in lip glosses include fruity aromas like strawberries, cherries, and peaches; while others offer floral scents like rose, lavender, or jasmine.
If you prefer a fruity scent, then the 'Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in Fenty Glow' is a great choice. It features a sweet peach-vanilla scent, providing a pleasant fragrance while adding a glossy finish to your lips.
For those who enjoy floral scents, the 'Urban Decay Hi-Fi Shine Ultra Cushion Lip Gloss in Fuel Double Shot' is ideal. This lip gloss boasts a delightful delicate rose scent that enhances your look while providing a hydrating and high-shine effect.
It's important to note that scents can vary in intensity, so it's advisable to read reviews and descriptions to ensure the scent is not overpowering or overwhelming. By selecting a lip gloss with a scent that matches your preferences, you can enhance your makeup routine with a pleasurable aromatic experience.
Packaging design
The right packaging not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures ease of application and convenient storage. Look for lip glosses with sleek and compact designs that are travel-friendly, such as the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This high-shine lip gloss comes in a sleek, sturdy packaging that fits easily in your purse or pocket, making it ideal for on-the-go touch-ups. Another great option is the NARS Lip Gloss, which comes in a chic, rectangular container that not only looks stylish but also prevents leakage or spills. For those who prefer a more luxurious packaging, the YSL Vernis à Lèvres Vinyl Cream Lip Stain features a sleek and sophisticated design with the iconic YSL logo.
In the market, lip gloss packaging can be divided into various categories based on the applicator type. Some products come with doe-foot applicators, such as the Maybelline New York Lip Studio Shine Shot Lip Topcoat, which allows for precise and controlled application. On the other hand, squeeze tube packaging, such as the NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss, provides flexibility in controlling the amount of product dispensed. For a unique twist, you can opt for lip glosses that come in pen-shaped packaging like the Benefit Cosmetics Lollibalm Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm, which is not only visually appealing but also allows for effortless application.
Size/quantity
The size of the lip gloss determines how much product you will get for the price, and also affects the portability and convenience of carrying it in your purse or pocket. There are various sizes available on the market, ranging from small, travel-sized options to larger, full-sized ones.
For those looking for a smaller size that can be easily carried in a handbag or makeup pouch, the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer is a popular choice. With a compact size of 0.18 oz, it offers a perfect balance between space-saving and still having enough product for several applications. On the other hand, if you want a lip gloss with a generous quantity, the Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish is a great option. Available in a full-size tube of 0.15 oz, this lip gloss provides ample product for frequent use and longer-lasting effects. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and how often you use lip gloss.
Applicator type
Different types of applicators provide different outcomes and suit various preferences. One popular applicator type is the doe-foot applicator, such as the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This applicator is known for its soft, sponge-like tip that glides effortlessly over the lips, evenly dispersing the product. Another option is a brush applicator, like the NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss, which allows for more precision and control during application. Some lip glosses even feature a rollerball applicator, such as the Juice Beauty PHYTO-PIGMENTS Luminous Lip Crayon, providing a unique and convenient application experience. Take into account your preferences and the finish you desire when selecting lip glosses based on their applicator type.
Cruelty-free
Many consumers are becoming more conscious of the ethical implications of their beauty products, and opting for brands that do not test on animals is a growing trend. Some notable examples of cruelty-free lip glosses on the market include Tarte Cosmetics H2O Gloss, Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss, and Bite Beauty French Press Lip Gloss. These brands have become popular choices among consumers due to their commitment to cruelty-free practices and the absence of testing on animals in the development and production process. With fascinating colors and moisture-rich formulas, they offer a guilt-free option for those who prioritize the well-being of animals.
Allergy-tested
This indicates that the product has undergone rigorous testing to ensure minimal risk of causing allergic reactions. One such excellent option is the Clinique Almost Lipstick, a highly acclaimed brand known for its hypoallergenic formulas. This lip gloss is not only allergy-tested but is also fragrance-free, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. Another great choice is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Lip Shine, which is dermatologist tested and free from parabens, phthalates, and harsh chemicals. These allergy-tested lip glosses provide peace of mind to individuals prone to allergies, ensuring that they can enjoy the benefits and beauty of lip gloss without worry.
Paraben-free
Parabens are chemical preservatives commonly used in cosmetics that some people prefer to avoid due to potential health concerns. Thankfully, there are many paraben-free lip gloss options on the market. One excellent choice is the Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Gloss. It is made with 100% natural ingredients and does not contain any harmful parabens. Another great option is the NARS Lip Gloss, which is a high-quality lip gloss that provides a long-lasting and glossy finish while also being paraben-free. Both of these products have received positive reviews and are trusted by consumers conscious about the ingredients in their lip glosses.
Ingredients
Look for lip glosses that contain nourishing components such as natural oils and butters, which can help to keep your lips hydrated and moisturized. Examples of lip glosses with beneficial ingredients include the Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Gloss, which is enriched with apricot and sunflower seed oils and provides a glossy finish while moisturizing the lips. Another great option is the NYX Butter Gloss, which is formulated with shea butter and offers a buttery smooth application with a non-sticky texture. These lip glosses are free from harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, ensuring a safe formula for your lips.
There are also lip glosses on the market that target specific concerns. For those looking for a plumping effect, the Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Lip Gloss could be the ideal choice as it contains a patented peptide complex that visibly plumps lips. However, it's important to note that this gloss may cause temporary tingling or discomfort upon application due to the active ingredients. If you have sensitive skin, you might consider the Clinique Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss, formulated with shea butter, which is suitable for even the most delicate lips.
Sun protection factor (SPF)
SPF measures the level of protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. Look for lip glosses that offer a broad spectrum SPF, meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. One great option is the 'Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm SPF 20', which provides vital hydration and SPF protection to keep your lips moisturized and shielded from the sun’s rays. Another notable choice is the 'Supergoop! Shine On Lip Screen SPF 50', which not only boasts a high SPF but also adds sheer shine to your lips, making it perfect for everyday use. Remember, selecting a lip gloss with SPF offers the added convenience of sun protection without compromising on style or functionality.
Non-sticky formula
Nobody wants their hair and other objects constantly sticking to their lips! Look for lip glosses that specifically mention a non-sticky formula in their product descriptions. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer is one excellent example known for its high-shine, non-sticky formula that delivers a universal color suitable for all skin tones. Another popular option is NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss. This buttery soft gloss provides a non-sticky, moisturizing finish with a range of beautiful shades to choose from. Both of these lip glosses are widely praised for their comfortable wear and non-sticky texture, making them great choices when seeking a lip gloss with a non-tacky feel.
Stain-proof formula
A stain-proof formula is crucial as it ensures that your lip gloss will stay on for a longer period of time without leaving any unwanted marks or stains. One product that offers this feature is the Maybelline SuperStay 24 Lip Color. This lip gloss is designed with a long-lasting formula that withstands food, drinks, and other everyday activities without smudging or transferring. Another great option is the NYX Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie Gloss. This lip gloss not only provides a stunning shine but also features a stain-proof formula that keeps your lips looking flawless all day long. Both these products offer excellent stain-proof formulas, ensuring that your lips stay vibrant and beautiful throughout the day.
Easy to apply
Look for products that come with an applicator that glides effortlessly over your lips, ensuring a smooth and even application. The 'Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer' is a great option as it boasts a wider and fuller applicator, allowing for effortless coverage in just one swipe. Another excellent choice is the 'NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss', which features a soft and buttery texture that melts onto your lips for easy application. If you prefer a more precise application, consider the 'Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss', equipped with a paddle-shaped applicator that allows you to perfectly outline your lips with its highly pigmented formula. These lip glosses offer easy and mess-free application, providing you with the perfect pout with minimal effort.
Easy to remove
Opting for a lip gloss that can easily be removed without leaving residue or causing any irritation can make your overall makeup routine more convenient. One great option to consider is the Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Gloss. This lip gloss is formulated with natural ingredients and is easy to remove with a gentle makeup remover. Another option is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Lip Shine, which not only provides a glossy finish but can also be easily removed with a makeup wipe or cleanser.
Transfer-resistant
An ideal transfer-resistant lip gloss is one that stays in place for longer periods, ensuring minimal smudging or transferring onto other surfaces. Some popular transfer-resistant lip glosses on the market include 'L'Oreal Paris Rouge Signature Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick', which offers a comfortable, ultra-lightweight formula with high pigmentation and 16 hours of transfer-resistant wear. 'Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick' is another great option, known for its long-lasting formula that stays put up to 16 hours and boasts of flawless, intense color payoff. For those seeking lip glosses with a creamy texture, 'FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer' is a popular pick, providing high shine and a non-sticky, transfer-resistant formula.
Suitable for sensitive lips
A great example is the Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Gloss. This lip gloss is formulated with natural oils and beeswax, providing a smooth and nourishing application that is ideal for sensitive lips. It is free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and synthetic fragrances, ensuring a gentle experience for those with sensitivities. If you're specifically looking for a vegan option, the Pacifica Enlightened Gloss Nourishing Mineral Lip Shine is a fantastic choice. This lip gloss is made with nourishing minerals and plant extracts, specifically designed to moisturize and soothe sensitive lips without any animal-derived ingredients.
Hygienic packaging
It ensures that the product stays clean and free from contamination, providing a safe option for your lips. Look for products that come in tubes or tubes with sponge applicators, as they allow for easy and controlled application without direct contact with your fingers. One example of such a lip gloss is the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. It comes in a tube with a precision wand applicator, avoiding the need to dip your fingers into the gloss. Another option is the Glossier Lip Gloss, which also comes in a tube with a flat, doe-foot applicator, making it hygienic and easy to use. Additionally, consider products that have sealing mechanisms to prevent leakage or air exposure, such as the MAC Lipglass Clear Lip Gloss, which features a screw-on cap for secure closure. Overall, prioritize hygienic packaging to ensure a safe and clean lip gloss experience.
Versatility (for use on bare lips, over lipstick, etc.)
Look for lip glosses that can be applied on bare lips, over lipstick, or even mixed with other products for a customized finish. One such versatile lip gloss is the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This lip gloss is designed to work on all skin tones and can be worn on its own for a natural, high-shine look or layered over your favorite lipstick for added dimension. Another great option is MAC Cosmetics Lipglass, which offers a wide range of shades and can be applied alone or on top of lipsticks for a glossy, pigmented finish. Lastly, for those who prefer a sheer wash of color that can be built up, the Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish is a fantastic choice as it can be worn on bare lips or over other lip products for a plumped and luscious pout.
Non-drying formula
Look for products that have a non-drying formula to provide long-lasting hydration and prevent chapped lips. One excellent option is the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This lip gloss boasts a moisturizing formula infused with shea butter and is also cruelty-free. Another great choice is the Glossier's Lip Gloss, which has a clear and non-sticky formula that is packed with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and jojoba oil. If you prefer a drugstore option, the Maybelline New York Lifter Gloss would be ideal as it offers a hydrating formula enriched with hyaluronic acid, making your lips feel soft and supple during the day. Remember, a non-drying formula is essential to keep your lips looking and feeling their best.
Non-feathering formula
Feathering refers to the unwanted spread or smudging of the lip gloss beyond the lip line. To avoid this, look for lip glosses that specifically mention being non-feathering in their product descriptions or specifications. NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss is a popular and highly recommended option known for its non-feathering formula. It offers a smooth, glossy finish without any bleeding or feathering. Another great choice is Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, which has a high-shine, non-sticky formula that stays in place and prevents feathering. These products are excellent examples of lip glosses specifically designed to provide a non-feathering formula, ensuring a flawless look all day long.
Plumping effect
Plumping lip glosses help enhance the appearance of lips by providing a fuller and more voluminous look. There are various brands in the market that offer plumping lip glosses, each with its own unique formulation and benefits.
One group of plumping lip glosses comprises those infused with hyaluronic acid. The NYX Professional Makeup Filler Instinct Plumping Lip Gloss is an excellent example in this category. This glossy formula is infused with hyaluronic acid and instantly plumps lips without any tingling sensation or irritation. Another group of plumping lip glosses uses innovative technology to achieve a volumizing effect. The Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish falls within this category. This lip gloss is packed with peptides and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and plump lips, while also providing a high-shine, shimmery finish.
It's important to note that not all plumping lip glosses produce the same level of plumping effect, so it's essential to read the product specifications and customer reviews when making a decision.
Natural ingredients
Natural ingredients not only provide a safer option for our lips but also offer added benefits. Look for lip glosses that contain nourishing ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants, and essential oils. An excellent example is Burt's Bees 100% Natural Moisturizing Lip Gloss, which features a natural formula that moisturizes and visibly enhances the lips' natural beauty. Another impressive option is Ilia Lip Gloss, made with a high percentage of organic ingredients, like castor seed oil and shea butter, to keep lips hydrated and smooth.
In terms of segments, there are lip glosses available from prestige brands, drugstore brands, and cruelty-free/vegan options. Examples of prestige brands with natural ingredients include RMS Beauty Lip Shine and Kjaer Weis Lip Gloss. For drugstore options, consider Physicians Formula Organic Wear Lipgloss and Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer. Those seeking cruelty-free and vegan lip glosses can try Lippy Girl Organic Vegan Lip Gloss and Pacifica Enlightened Gloss. These examples showcase the variety of natural options available across different segments of the market.
Cruelty-free certification
Cruelty-free certification ensures that the product and its ingredients were not tested on animals during the manufacturing process. This is a great ethical choice for those who want to support cruelty-free beauty brands.
There are several lip glosses on the market that are cruelty-free certified. One example is the tarte H2O Gloss which not only offers a shiny finish but is also vegan and contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Another option is the Urban Decay Hi-Fi Shine Ultra Cushion Lip Gloss which is not only cruelty-free certified but also gluten-free and paraben-free, catering to individuals with specific skincare needs. These lip glosses are just a few examples of the many cruelty-free certified options available in the market today.
Best suited for fair skin tones
Opt for shades that enhance your natural coloring and provide a soft and flattering look. Some lip gloss suggestions for fair skin tones include NARS Lip Gloss in Chihuahua, which imparts a peachy pink hue with a touch of shimmer, and MAC Lipglass in Prrr, offering a warm pink shade with golden undertones. Another option is Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in Fenty Glow, a universally flattering rose nude gloss that adds a subtle glow to fair complexions. These products provide a range of shades that perfectly complement fair skin tones without overwhelming them.
Best suited for medium skin tones
One great option to consider is the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This lip gloss has a sheer peachy nude shade that flatters medium skin tones beautifully. The NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss in Tiramisu is another excellent choice. This gloss has a warm pinky-brown shade that adds a natural touch of color to medium skin tones. Both of these options are formulated to enhance the natural beauty of medium skin tones and provide a glossy finish.
It's worth noting that the lip gloss market offers a wide range of shades specifically designed for medium skin tones. In addition to peachy nude and warm pinky-brown shades, you may also explore options with hints of coral or raspberry tone. Essentially, medium skin tones tend to look stunning with lip glosses that have warm undertones and balance the natural pigmentation of the lips. Some other notable products to consider in this category include NARS Lip Gloss in Orgasm which has a peachy-pink shade, and MAC Lipglass in Spice which has a warm plum shade. These products offer long-lasting shine and hydration that will enhance the natural beauty of your lips with their suitable undertones.
Best suited for dark skin tones
Opt for shades that have warm undertones such as deep berries, reddish browns, and luscious plums to bring out the natural beauty of dark skin. Some examples of lip glosses that are best suited for dark skin tones include 'Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer' which features a non-sticky formula and has a shimmering rose nude shade that flatters any complexion, 'MAC Cosmetics Lipglass' in the shade "Oh Baby" which is a warm bronze with gold pearl, and 'Bobbi Brown Crushed Oil-Infused Gloss' in the shade "Free Spirit" that offers a sheer, shiny finish with moisturizing oils.
Other lip gloss groups that cater to dark skin tones include those with vibrant jewel tones, such as deep purples and rich burgundies. Some examples of lip glosses in this segment are 'Pat McGrath Labs LUST: Lip Gloss' in the shade "Fuchsia Perfect" which is a bold and intense purple with a high-shine finish, and 'NARS Lip Gloss' in the shade "Silent Night" which is a deep plum with a hint of shimmer. It is worth noting that all these products are specifically formulated to provide a natural and flattering look on dark skin tones.
Price
Fortunately, there are options available for every budget. In the affordable range, Maybelline Lip Lifter Gloss is a great choice, priced at just $8.99. It not only adds a fiery shine but also hydrates lips with its hyaluronic acid-infused formula. For those looking for a luxurious lip gloss, Yves Saint Laurent Vinyl Cream Lip Stain is a standout option at $38. This highly pigmented gloss offers a high-shine vinyl finish and long-lasting wear. Within the mid-range category, you can find Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer for $19, which has a non-sticky formula and comes in a variety of shades.
Variety of brands
There are numerous brands that offer a wide range of lip glosses with various features and benefits. For instance, Fenty Beauty is known for its inclusive shade range and high-shine formula, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more intense gloss look. On the other hand, Glossier focuses on providing lightweight and sheer lip glosses, ideal for individuals who prefer a more natural and subtle lip look. Furthermore, brands like NYX Cosmetics offer a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, making them a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.
In terms of product groups or segments, there are those brands that cater specifically to the desire for intense pigmentation. One of these brands is Anastasia Beverly Hills, known for its highly pigmented lip glosses, such as their popular Lip Gloss that offers intense color payoff and a non-sticky formula. Additionally, there are brands that prioritize hydrating and moisturizing properties, such as Burt's Bees. Their Nourishing Lip Gloss line is formulated with natural ingredients, including hydrating oils, providing a nourishing and glossy finish to the lips without the sticky texture. Overall, the variety of brands available ensures that there's a lip gloss out there to suit different preferences and needs.
