Lip Gloss – What You Need to Know

Lip gloss is a staple in nearly every beauty lover’s collection. Not only does it give a gorgeous glow, but it also moisturizes lips and can add a pop of color. The best glosses today come in a wide range of colors and finishes, and they usually have the added benefit of being super smooth and moisturizing. Unlike lipstick, which requires precision and a mirror for application, gloss is often slick and goofproof. It is typically applied with a doe foot wand, a squeezable tube, or a retractable pen tip.

Whether you are looking for a shimmery clear gloss or a frosted coral shade, there is a gloss for everyone. There are even some that offer skincare benefits like hydration and plumping ingredients.

Lip glosses are generally made up of a base and one or more oils, waxes or petroleum jelly. Some formulas also contain emollients to soften and hydrate the lips and other ingredients such as fragrances, pigments, vitamins, and other skin-loving additives.

In addition to the above ingredients, some glosses have a built-in sunscreen or other functional agents to help protect lips. Many brands also include nourishing and hydrating ingredients, such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and rosehip seed oil to keep lips healthy and looking their best.

Aside from adding color and shine, the main function of lip gloss is to make lips appear fuller. To achieve this, it is important to use the right gloss and to apply it sparingly. For example, a glittery gloss will be more noticeable than a sheer tint.

Although it is often a misconception that lip gloss is bad for your lips, there are certain types of glosses that can actually cause damage. For instance, overusing a gloss that contains plumping ingredients can irritate lips. Also, it is important to note that lip gloss should be thrown out when it starts to smell funny or change in texture.

Gigi Hadid swears by this Fenty Beauty product, which she calls “the most beautiful gloss ever.” This high-shine gloss is lightweight and nonsticky and is packed with hyaluronic acid to moisturize lips and lock in moisture so they look plump and smooth. Plus, it has a delicious vanilla cupcake scent.

This gloss from a brand founded by model Jess Hunt is a true multitasker. It has a balm-like texture, but it also offers a hint of pigment and a high-shine finish. It is also enriched with nourishing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, and it comes in a variety of shimmery shades to suit any outfit.

For those who want a subtle pop of color, this gloss from Kaja is perfect. It has a creamy texture, a doe foot applicator, and a variety of flattering shades that work well with any skin tone. This gloss is also infused with a blend of nourishing and hydrating ingredients, such squalane and jojoba seed oil, to keep lips healthy and smooth.