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If you’re the type of person who deals with dry, cracked lips often, you’ve no doubt looked for a way to heal your pout without having to reapply lip balm every hour or so. You can achieve this with emollients like Aquaphor, of course, but sometimes it doesn’t do the trick, either. Luckily, a sleeping mask for your lips can get the job done in record time – and it can do it all over night!
As with all makeup products, though, not all lip glosses are created equal. Some are too sticky, while others provide more shimmer than color. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top lip glosses of 2023. From lightweight glosses that are perfect for everyday wear to bolder shades that will give you a pop of color, we’ve got something for every occasion and makeup look.
Reviewing the Leading Lip Glosses of 2023
NYX Professional Makeup Lip Gloss – Best Overall
This pick comes with a doe-foot applicator wand that makes it easy to apply without making a mess. Additionally, this gloss’s thin consistency allows it to glide onto your lips smoothly while imparting a healthy sheen. What’s more, it is never tested on animals and is certified by PETA as a cruelty-free product. Because of its luxurious formulas, range of shades, and commitment to animal-friendly practices, this lip gloss stands at the top of our list!
- Hydrating, non-sticky formula
- Buttery smooth texture
- Easy to apply
- Available in multiple eye-catching shades
- Requires reapplication throughout the day
Broadway Vita-Lip Clear Lip Gloss – Great Value
Unlike other lip glosses that fade away after a few minutes, this pick is exceptionally long-lasting, so you don’t have to worry about reapplying it throughout the day. Plus, each gloss can easily be layered or blended together to create a dramatic look. On top of all these benefits, this lip gloss comes in a squeezable tube, making it easy to apply!
- Hydrating, moisturizing formula
- Not overly thick or sticky
- Offers a subtle sheen
- Comes in a pack of five
- Tube might leak a little
- Not tinted whatsoever
Wet n Wild Mega Slicks Lip Gloss – Best for Lip Plumping
Available in a range of flattering hues, this tinted lip gloss provides a beautiful pop of color and is incredibly easy to apply. The included applicator wand allows you to evenly spread the gloss with just a single swipe. The formula is also non-sticky, so you won’t have to worry about your lips feeling excessively tacky after application. With its long-lasting formula, this lip gloss will stay put for hours without fading or drying out — perfect for a night out with friends or a special date!
- Moisturizing and conditioning formula
- Extra shiny finish
- Non-sticky and non-drying
- Easy to apply
- Could be sheerer
Almay Lip Gloss – Best Shade Variety
Further, its non-sticky texture ensures that your color stays throughout the day, while the flocked applicator allows for even color distribution. It also gives your lips a smooth finish, so you won’t have to worry about clumps or flakes when applying it. And, because this lip gloss is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, you don’t have to worry about possible allergic reactions when applying it!
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Provides long-lasting color
- Glossy finish with a little shimmer
- Smooth, clump-free application
- Sticky to some, despite claiming it’s non-sticky
Rimmel Stay Glossy Lip Gloss – Most Long-lasting
From nude to bold, the lip gloss is available in a variety of shades that’ll make your pout pop. Plus, the formula is very lightweight, so you won’t feel like you’re wearing any makeup at all. Providing medium coverage, this gloss can be worn alone or over your favorite lipstick. And, since the product comes in a tube with a doe-foot applicator, it’s easy to apply on the go!
- Moisturizing with a smooth consistency
- Shiny finish without being glittery
- Formula is non-sticky
- Available in multiple shades
- Not very long-lasting
How to Choose the Right Lip Gloss: A Complete Buying Guide
Things To Consider Before Buying a Lip Gloss
Color selection
From natural shades like pink or peach to bolder colors like blood red or burgundy, lip gloss comes in a wide range of colors. If you’re just starting, choose a neutral color that will go with any outfit or occasion. The best part? Most lip glosses come in several shades, so you can mix and match them as needed.
Texture
A lip gloss’s texture can make all the difference in how your lips look and feel. Different textures offer different levels of moisturizing, stickiness, non-stickiness, shine, and long-lasting effects. Moisturizing lip gloss is great for those with dry lips and often features hydrating ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and vitamin E.
Non-sticky lip gloss is more comfortable to wear in comparison, especially throughout the day, as it won’t leave any residue behind. For an extra glossy look, opt for a gloss with a glossy finish or a matte option for a more subtle look. The key is to find one that glides smoothly over your lips and doesn’t feel heavy or uncomfortable.
Formula
The lip gloss’s formula should be lightweight yet moisturizing, ensuring your lips are hydrated throughout the day. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, jojoba oil, or coconut oil to keep your lips soft and nourished. Also, steer clear of products that contain harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
Shine/Luster
Make sure the luster or shine level suits your aesthetic. Some lip glosses offer more intense shine, while others provide a more subtle sheen — overall, your choice depends on what effect you’re after for your makeup look.
Many brands now offer specially formulated glossy finishes, so swatch test out different ranges until you find one that works perfectly with your skin tone and desired makeup results. When buying, choose a product that gives you the glossy look you want without looking too shiny or glittery.
Color payoff
When selecting a lip gloss, it’s important to make sure that its color payoff is good. You want to ensure that the color is true to what is in the tube and doesn’t look washed out once applied to your lips. You should also consider whether or not the color is buildable; some formulas may be sheer and, as a result, require multiple coats for full pigment payoff.
Applicator
No one likes a product that requires too much effort when it’s time for application! That’s why you should look for products with doe-foot applicators. They glide onto lips easily with minimal effort and don’t drag too much around delicate areas like corners, which can cause discomfort if done too forcefully or roughly.
Wearability
When shopping for lip gloss, it’s essential to find one with long-lasting wear time so you don’t have to constantly reapply throughout the day. Look for formulas that claim they can last up to eight hours or longer without the need for touch-ups and won’t fade or crease on your lips, even after eating or drinking.
People Also Asked
Q: What ingredients are commonly found in lip gloss?
A: The ingredients in lip gloss vary from brand to brand. Some types of lip gloss contain a higher concentration of waxes and oils, which can be beneficial for dry or damaged lips. Others are formulated with emollients, pigments, and other active ingredients, giving your lips a plumper look.
Q: How do I apply lip gloss?
A: To apply lip gloss, start by exfoliating your lips with a gentle scrub to remove any dead skin cells. Then apply a moisturizing balm to your lips to create a barrier between your skin and the lip gloss. Finally, use your finger or a lip brush to gently dab on the lip gloss in a thin layer. If desired, you can add more layers for a more intense shine.
Q: What is the difference between lip balm and lip gloss?
A: Lip balm is designed to provide relief from dryness by creating a barrier over the lips, while lip gloss adds shine and can enhance the color of your lips. Lip balm also tends to have fewer ingredients than lip gloss, as it usually only contains oils and waxes instead of other colorants and flavorings.
Q: How long does it take for lip gloss to dry?
A: Lip gloss typically takes around one to two minutes to fully dry, depending on the ingredients in it and how thickly you have applied it to your lips. If you find that it takes longer than two minutes for your lip gloss to dry, you may want to check the ingredients list for any potential irritants or allergens that may be causing it to take longer than usual.
Q: Do different shades of lip gloss last different lengths of time?
A: Yes, different shades of lip gloss can last different lengths of time due to their different compositions and application methods. Generally speaking, lighter shades tend to last longer than darker shades because they’re less likely to fade or smudge throughout the day.
Q: Is lip gloss better than lipstick?
A: This depends on personal preference, as both products have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Lipstick tends to stay on longer than lip gloss but may not be as moisturizing as its glossy counterpart. Meanwhile, lip gloss is often more comfortable on the lips and has a more natural look compared to lipstick, but may not last as long throughout the day due to its thinner consistency.
Q: What are some tips for getting the best results when applying lip gloss?
A: When applying lip gloss, make sure to start with clean and exfoliated lips — this will help ensure that the product goes on evenly without any streaks or smudges. You should also avoid applying too many layers, as this can cause the product to become clumpy or sticky over time. Additionally, be sure not to press your lips together after applying so that the product does not transfer onto your teeth or clothing.
The Dermelect Smooth & Supple Lip Mask Melt is your new lip savior. Just $26, it’s the drink of moisture your lips have been calling out for, and you’re going to absolutely love what it can do for you. Apply it at night or whenever you’re doing your skincare as a leave-on mask that melts into your lips on contact.
Get the Smooth & Supple Lip Mask Melt for just $26 at Dermelect!
It’ll soothe on contact as a blend of luxurious oils start to spread over your lips to form a barrier that locks in hydration all day long. It’ll protect your lips from cracking and chapping without having to go back and reapply balm every time you get the inkling to do so.
Get the Smooth & Supple Lip Mask Melt for just $26 at Dermelect!
It can do all this thanks to its skin-loving ingredients, including castor oil, evening primrose oil, Abyssinian oil, jojoba oil, and a berry blend that’s sweet and rich in antioxidants. Tht gives it a delicious taste whenever you happen to lick your lips.
Get the Smooth & Supple Lip Mask Melt for just $26 at Dermelect!
What’s more, this lip mask has a special applicator you can apply it with to keep your hands clean and your pot of lip mask melt sanitary. You’ll be wishing you could dig into this sweet treat for your lips every time it’s necessary to reapply – and then some! Do yourself a favor and grab his luscious lip drink and see how fast your lips absorb it and feel velvety smooth.