With nineties style making a striking comeback, it’s no surprise that lip gloss is definitely in too. You can’t beat the simplicity of a perfectly clear lip gloss shimmering across your lips to elevate an outfit, and we also love a spot of brightly coloured lip plumper gloss for a wild night out. But how do you know which is the best lip gloss? Or when should you choose sparkly, bright or nude? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best lip gloss products.

The lip gloss low down

In the nineties it might have been okay to plaster on the lip gloss without a thought about where it comes from. But now we’re savvier about what lip gloss is made of. Unfortunately, you’ll need to do your research when it comes to all make-up ingredients as there is a real mixture when it comes to the component parts. That said, most lip glosses are made using oil as the base, giving the lip gloss its slick shiny texture. These may be synthetic, or could use natural oils, such as jojoba.They will usually also include thickeners (as you get in lip sticks), such as wax or clay, to help them stay on and not drip. Finally, look for natural-based dyes such as fruit extracts and iron oxide. If you want vegan lip gloss, make sure it specifically says this on the product.

The best lip gloss

It’s a matter of personal preference, but our Secret Spa make-up artist Aisling Campbell says, “My go to lip gloss would be a Lip Lustre from Charlotte Tilbury. It’s really hydrating and long-lasting, and gives the effect of plump lips.”Whatever look you’re after and whatever your skin tone, Lustre Blondie is a firm favourite lip plumper gloss.

Try it: Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre Blondie

Nude lip gloss

A nude lip gloss is a handbag staple. It evens out the complexion of your lips, adds a swathe of lustrous shine and yet still retains the natural look. Secret Spa make-up artist Laura Magennis explains how to perfect the nude lip gloss look. She says, “Lip gloss is having a real moment again and I’m currently obsessed with the shade range at Victoria Beckham Beauty. Layer the nude coral ‘Picante’ over a beige lipstick for a nod to that J-Lo 90s/00s lip.”

Try it: Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Gloss

Best lip plumping gloss

One of the wonderful things about a lip plumper gloss is that it can give you delightfully rounder-appearing lips that are truly kissable. Unfortunately, not all lip plumping glosses are created equally. The best lip plumping gloss in our opinion is available from Milk Makeup in a range of gorgeous colours for full lips.

Try it: Milk Makeup Electric Glossy Lip Plumper

Sparkly lip gloss

Yes, you can reach for glitter lip gloss for a fun night out, but sparkly lip gloss always has its place. Wear it with confidence and you can feel fabulous, whatever your plans.We love the Pat McGrath Labs glitter lip gloss, as it brings the right amount of sparkle without overdoing it. These lip gloss products are also some of the best in the UK for seriously intense colours and a wide colour palette.

Try it: Pat McGrath Labs Lust Lip Gloss

Best non sticky lip gloss

We do love lip gloss but we aren’t so keen on the sticky feel some lip glosses leave you with. One of the most important lip gloss tips is to replace your lip gloss regularly, if you don’t want it to get overly sticky.However, one of the best non-sticky nude lip glosses in our opinion comes from Chanel.

Try it: Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss in Melted Honey

Best clear lip gloss

Perfect for everyday wear and making you feel incredible in one quick slick of the brush, clear lip gloss is a go-to item. You can pair it with a heavily done look or use it to finish off a natural style – it works with everything.  It can get a bit complicated choosing your clear lip gloss. The best clear lip gloss that we love comes from Glossier. It gives a cushiony glass-like shine and is everything you need. The Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil work wonders to keep your lips beautifully hydrated too. 

Try it: Glossier Lip Gloss

Best pink lip gloss

For a sweet innocent look, picking up on the floral end of summer, you need a pink lip gloss. Indeed, pink lip gloss works perfectly with the comeback nineties style, and you’ll look and feel your very best. Pink lip gloss works with most complexions, and can create the dreamy clean style that works as well with denim as it does with floaty dresses. When we’re looking for the best pink lip gloss, our attention turns to Nars Afterglow Lip Shine. Their Orgasm shade is the perfect peachy pink we’re after.

Try it: Nars Afterglow Lip Shine in Orgasm.

Best red lip gloss

For sultry looks and autumnal vibes, it’s time to pick up a lustrous red lip gloss. There’s no room for error when it comes to red lip gloss. So we recommend learning the best lip gloss tips and tricks, such as applying it to your bottom lip only before smacking your lips together for a perfectly balanced look. When it comes to red lip gloss, have fun choosing your favourite shade. We love the Tom Ford Gloss Luxe.

Try it: Check out this devilishly red Tom Ford Gloss Luxe.

Best long-lasting lip gloss

It’s trickier to get a long-lasting lip gloss than a standard lipstick. The oil needed for it to be a gloss means it’s inevitably more prone to wear. However, one of our best lip gloss tips for long-lasting effects is to choose a colour, rather than clear or nude.Bright lip gloss colours usually mean that it still looks good hours later. Additionally, choose a high-quality brand that is proven to last. Yves Saint Laurent says that their lip gloss lasts up to 10 hours!

Try it: YSL Vernis à Lèvres Vinyl Cream Lip Gloss

Find your DIY lip gloss attempts go awry? Want some tips and help from the professionals? Let our professional make-up artists come to you and help you master the lip gloss look.

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