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Lip gloss and lip oils are all the rage on social media, but navigating through the plethora of options can be overwhelming, especially when each beauty guru advocates for something different. "Lip gloss offers shine and color. Its viscous base, a blend of waxes and oils, creates a high-impact mirror finish, ideal for enhancing lip fullness and adding a pop of color. Lip oil offers a lighter, more naturally focused alternative. Thin and silky, botanical oils penetrate deeply to effectively quench dehydrated lips," says Dr. Elaine F. Kung, a board-certified dermatologist based out of New York City, Clinical Assistant Professor at Weill-Cornell Medical College and founder of Future Bright Dermatology.
Choosing between lip gloss or lip oil, or whether you need both, can be a bit of a head-scratcher. From the way they feel to the look they give, these lip essentials vary in everything from their formula to their finish.
Here's your ultimate guide to understanding the difference.
Lip Oil
Packed with nourishing ingredients like jojoba, avocado, grapeseed oils, and vitamins, lip oils deeply penetrate to replenish moisture, leaving your lips soft and supple. They provide a natural shine and focus on hydration, making them suitable for a natural look and perfect before bed. Its lightweight formula ensures comfortable wear while providing a subtle, natural shine, leaving your lips looking and feeling their best all day (or night) long.
Fenty Skin Lip Oil
Your ticket to hydrated, luscious lips! Perfect ratio of lightweight, yet sticky enough for long lasting moisture. Packed with all the good stuff like rosehip and cherry seed oil, and none of the junk, this vegan formula is here to give you the plump pout of your dreams.
According to Valerie Aparovich, biochemist and certified cosmetologist-aesthetician at OnSkin, “Mineral oils and their derivatives are commonly used in lip products, helping to moisturize and smooth the lips. These substances are generally considered safe as long as they are well-processed. Otherwise, they are shown to be potentially cancerogenic. Therefore, I recommend choosing products formulated with plant-derived oils to avoid risks.”
Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil
The must-have lip essential that's taking the beauty world by storm! This little gem isn't just popular. It's practically flying off the shelves. With its ultra-nourishing formula packed with antioxidants and Vitamin E, it's like a refreshing drink of water for your lips, leaving them soft, smooth, and oh-so-kissable. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be so obsessed that you'll run out sooner than you think!
Gisou Honey-Infused Lip Oil
This multitasking wonder, packed with Mirsalehi Honey and hyaluronic acid, isn't just your average lip product – it's a powerhouse lip treatment. Say goodbye to dry, chapped lips and hello to a hydrated, plump lip look. Whether you're rocking a bold lip or keeping it au naturel, let this sweet elixir be your secret weapon for luscious lips all day, every day.
Lip Gloss
In contrast, lip glosses have a thicker, stickier texture with waxes and pigments for a high-shine finish. Lip gloss is your go-to for that instant glam fix. While lip gloss adds glamour and shine, it doesn't provide the nourishment and hydration that a lip oil can deliver. It simply adds a touch of pizzazz to any look, making your lips look fuller and more luscious. Plus, it's super easy to apply on the go, no mirror required!
Unlike lip oils, many lip glosses contain fragrances and a higher amount of artificial ingredients, so it's essential to check the origin of your gloss to ensure it aligns with your preferences and sensitivities. Dermatologists and cosmetic specialists recommend avoiding certain ingredients such as fragrances, phthalates, parabens, polyethylene glycol and sulfates. These substances can cause irritation, disrupt hormones and strip your skin of essential oils. Always opt for brands that prioritize natural and skin-friendly ingredients for a lip look you can feel good about.
Topicals Slick Salve
Infused with peptides and a tri-ceramide complex, this minty, vegan formula not only keeps your lips shiny but it has a rather impressive staying power. You won't have to reapply this balm over and over again!
Pat McGrath Labs Lust Gloss
This ultra-light, super sparkly gloss not only gives your lips a gorgeous, three-dimensional luster but also glides on effortlessly in a non-sticky gel formula. Plus, it even tastes delicious, adding an extra touch of sweetness to your makeup routine. Your lips will be the center of attention wherever you go. According to customer reviews, this gloss lives up to every promise.
Glossier Cushiony Glassy Shine
The secret to a glassy finish without the stickiness! Glide on with the fuzzy-foot applicator for instant shine in just one swipe. With Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil, it's a double dose of moisture that keeps your lips cushion-soft and oh-so-kissable. The perfect example of a two-in-one, the benefits of a lip oil with the shine and staying power of a gloss. Choose from two shades or go clear for that natural glow.
