As a person who loves makeup, I usually exploring different types of products to enhance my look. Lip gloss, which gives to lips a glossy luster and sometimes a subtle color, is indeed considered makeup. The shiny and moisturizing properties of lip gloss make it popular choice for people who want to add some extra charm to their lips without going all-in with a bold lipstick.
When I choose a lip gloss, I pay attention to the level of pigmentation and desired finish. Some lip glosses are plumb, offering a subtle tint of color or even a sheer finish, making them ideal to complement a bright lipstick or even wearing alone for a natural look. From other side, some lip glosses are more pigmented and can be worn solo for a more noticeable pop of color. Common ingredients such as hydrogenated polyisobutene, vitamin E, and plant oils, contribute shiny aspect and nutritional properties.
Nowadays lip glosses are became versatile makeup tool. They can be applied to create a variety of styles from subtle everyday shine to spectacular shimmer for special occasions. Due to the diversity of glosses and hues available, lip glosses are an important aspect of any makeup collection.
Lip Gloss as Makeup
Defining Makeup
As a person who appreciates makeup, I know that it encompasses a wide range of cosmetic products. Aim of these products are to enhance one person’s appearance: improving the complexion, adding color, or providing artistic expression. So, when considering if lip gloss falls within this category, I would say yes. Lip gloss is giving to lips an aesthetic enhancement – a shiny and glossy appearance. This cosmetic is made of oil, wax, and pigment, along with other ingredients like emollients and preservatives source. Despite lip gloss have a clear or colored varieties, its main purpose is to moisturize the lips and provide a wet, high-shine texture source.
History of Lip Gloss
I find out about the origins of various makeup products four years ago. I was wondering while researching the history of lip gloss, I discovered that its invention is credited to Max Factor. He is a famous Hollywood makeup artist and in the early 1930s, he wanted to create a lip product that will make movie stars’ lips look more lush and shiny on camera. Thus, lip gloss was born, and in 1932 Max Factor introduced it to the general public under the name “X-Rated”.
Later, lip gloss has undergone a variety of changes in formulation, applicators, and packaging. Some versions were infused with scents or flavors, while others comprise glitter or shimmer. The various cosmetic brands start to produce their own unique formulas, when lip gloss became more popular. It propels popularity of lip gloss even further. Today, lip gloss is a main product of makeup collections, and it continues to be a highly sought.
Types of Lip Gloss
Hydrating
Well, there are many different forms of lip glosses. One of my favorite types is hydrating lip gloss which is formulated specifically to moisturize the lips and provide a smooth, glossy appearance. These lip glosses helped me to prevent lips from becoming dry and chapped during colder months.
Plumping
Another interesting type which I’m gonna tell you is a plumping lip gloss.These lip glosses gives you a yet visually appealing, temporary plumping effect on your lips. As a result, you will get fuller-looking lips without the need for any injections or fillers. When I’m looking to enhance my natural lip shape or add some extra volume to pout plumping, lip glosses are my great helper.
Tinted
My another favorite lip gloss is tinted lip gloss. It combines the benefits of lip gloss and lipstick. These lip glosses provide a sheer wash of color and adds a subtle pop to my lips while still maintaining the shiny finish. I use this tinted lip gloss when I want more natural lips or effortless look.
Shimmering
And the last one, which I can’t forget to mention is shimmering lip gloss. This type of gloss included shimmer particles that create a sparkling, light-reflecting effect. I love using shimmering lip glosses when I want extra glam in my makeup, and also for special occasions. When it is on light, the particles of shimmer gives beautiful eye-catching shine to my lips.
Application Tips
Choosing the Right Shade
When it’s time to select the perfect lip gloss shade, I consider to choose a color which is one or two shades darker than my natural lip color. This ensures that the gloss complements my skin tone and enlarges my lips without overdone.
Proper Techniques
For applying lip gloss, I don’t swipe it as lipstick, I just apply it on the middle of my bottom lip and then rub my lips together. This makes a smooth sheen without too goopy effect.
I like to outline my lips with lip pencil, before applying the gloss. I’m using a shade as close to my natural lip color or slightly lighter than the lip gloss. This prevents an obvious outline around my mouth and it will make easy to blend products seamlessly. I start from the middle part of my upper lip and then going outward, following the contour of lips.
Note: You should to keep lip gloss application light and focused on the center of lips for the more appealing and natural finish.
Popular Brands and Products
When it’s about lip gloss, there are many popular brands and products, which producing lip glosses. They stand out for their quality, shine, and non-sticky formulas, One of my favourite is Beautycounter Beyond Gloss. It known for its weightless feel, hydrating properties, and excellent shine. But it doesn’t last long, so throughout the day you should make reapplication.
I tried another popular brand and it was Mented Cosmetics Lip Gloss with a variety of shades to suit different preferences. It’s a great drugstore option and affordable without sacrificing quality. The lip gloss glides on smoothly for a lovely finish.
For making plumping effect I suggest Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Lip Bath Gloss. This lip gloss is an amazing addition to any kind of makeup. It’s infused with collagen and other ingredients to promote plumping effect,
Chanel Rouge Coco Moisturizing Glossmier is also one of my favorites. It have hydrating properties and perfect for those who struggle with dry lips. On the other hand, Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm is known as long-lasting, ensuring that your lips stay glossy and moisturized throughout the day.
For budget accessible version, I will suggest Maybelline New York Lip Lifter Gloss. It’s a top popular choice. Also The Dior Addict Lip Maximizer is a loved by many girls. It provides a plumping effect and perfect for achieving that luscious, glossy pout.
In my experience, these lip glosses are served me perfectly. They provide a variety of finishes, from subtle to high-shine. They can be found at different points and price to suit any budget.