Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best drugstore lip glosses can do magic, whether you look to create a simple, everyday look or add extra shine to your lipstick. In this post, we bring you a list of drugstore lip glosses that help your lips get the desired effect. These expert-recommended lip glosses are sure to make your lips shine and give the top brands a run for their money in terms of quality.
Marin McCarthy, a licensed, professional makeup artist and owner of Marin Eve Makeup, says, “Lip glosses can be multipurpose as well. They can be used on the eyes for a glossy lid or on the cheeks for an extra dewy but natural highlight. They can also be used to adhere glitter for a short period. Besides, a clear gloss can be customized–you may add any eyeshadow or cream to get a specific color.” Keep scrolling and pick the one you fancy to add a beautiful shine to your lips.
Top Picks
17 Best Drugstore Lip Glosses
1. Best Hydrating:Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss
Give your lips a polished look with the Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss. The formula is infused with agave, moringa oil, and cupuacu butter that leaves your lips hydrated. It comes in 24 plush shades ranging from natural nudes to glittery clear holographic. The oversized applicator with a reservoir tip helps give an even and rich spread of the product within one swipe. Watch this video to learn about a reviewer’s experience with testing and using this affordable lip gloss.
Pros
- Keeps the lips nourished
- Non-sticky texture
- Hydrating formula
- High-shine lip gloss
Cons
- May wear off quickly
- Colors may seem a bit light
"This shimmery lipgloss is my choice for softening the too-dark lipsticks in my collection. It has no fragrance or taste, which I am particular about, and its application tip ensures easy and smooth application."
2. Best Lightweight:Rimmel Stay Glossy Lip Gloss
This lip gloss by Rimmel is lightweight and available in 14 shades. The non-sticky lip gloss glides smoothly over your lips to give you a rich and shiny look and is suitable to use daily or on special occasions. You may use this high-shine lip gloss solo or layer it over your favorite lipstick. The creamy texture not only adds shine to your lips but also keeps them moisturized. Learn more about the creamy lip gloss’s quality in this review video.
Pros
- Provides six hours of wear
- Bold finish
- Lip sculpting wand gives precise definition
- Sheer and buildable
Cons
- Smell may be off-putting to some
- May feel a bit shimmery to some
"This gloss has been my companion for years now. I love its smooth application, lasting power, and range of shades. While some colors are too glittery for my taste, I can't deny the moisture and high shine it provides. The smell is okay but not outstanding."
3. Best Non-Sticky:L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 10,774 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
If you are looking for a clear lip gloss, try this Shea Butter lip gloss from L.A Colors. The shea butter and vitamin Econtent help in keeping your lips smooth and protected. It also has a non-sticky finish, which could probably make it one of the best drugstore clear lip glosses you can find. Check out this review video to learn about a reviewer’s take on this lip gloss.
Pros
- Helps provide an intense lipstick color
- Available in various lip gloss shades
- Light vanilla scent
- Adds high shine
Cons
- May require frequent touch-ups
- Might feel drying after a while
"I love this lip gloss for its smooth texture. It instantly offers lasting moisture without leaving any sticky residue. And while it is not the longest-lasting, it makes my lips feel supple and glossy."
Quick tipRevlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss | Rimmel Stay Glossy Lip Gloss | L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | All |
| Color | Black Cherry | Captivate Me! | Clear |
| Dimensions | 4 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches | 1.37 x 0.69 x 4.06 inches | 0.75 x 0.75 x 4.75 inches |
| Weight | 0.13 Ounces | 1.45 Ounces | 0.16 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,359 | 25,919 | 10,774 |
| Price | $6.98 | $4.78 | $1.98 |
4. Best Glamorous:Almay Goddess Gloss
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 4,806 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
This gorgeous lip gloss is formulated to give your lips a glittery look that is apt for a night out or a party. Non-sticky and easy to use, these glosses are best worn solo, mixed, or layered with your favorite lipstick. Made with pomegranate, grape, and raspberry oils, they keep your lips smooth and hydrated.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic and cruelty-free
- Available in eight shades
- Flocked applicator for even application
- May leave a frosty finish
Cons
- May not last long
- Some may feel that the shine is low
"This hydrating lipgloss offers an appealing effect and makes my lips appear fuller, although it can be slightly sticky. I love that it is long-lasting and complements most of the lipsticks I own."
5. Best Feather-Proof:Naqier Matte Velvety Lip Gloss Set
Keep your lips polished and soft with the Butter Gloss from NYX Professional Makeup. This gloss provides sheer to medium coverage, making it suitable to be used alone or over your favorite lipstick to add an oomph. Just like butter, the lipgloss glides and melts onto the lips in a super smooth motion to give them a glossy yet pigmented look. Moreover, the feather-proof gloss is available in several colors to match all your lipstick shades.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Cruelty-free
- Makes the lips look supple
- Non-sticky formula
Cons
- Some colors may be lighter than expected
- Not vegan-friendly
"It's a joy to wear this gloss with a buttery texture. It enhances any lipstick I wear, although it requires frequent reapplication. And given that It is non-irritating and comfortable to wear, I'd buy this again."
6. Best For Sensitive Skin:Essence Extreme Shine Volume Lip Gloss
The lip gloss from Essence Cosmetics is ideal for those looking for a product that adds extreme shine and volume to their lips. Its non-stick formula is colorless, making it super easy to match it with all your lipsticks. The lip gloss comes with a doe foot applicator to make the application process easier. Moreover, the absence of alcohol and mineral oil makes the gloss suitable for people with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and vegan lip gloss
- Paraben-, gluten-, and silicone-free
- Free of preservatives
- Does not contain microplastic particles
Cons
- May have a faint scent
- May not last long
"This lipgloss has been the best in protecting my lips from drying due to the arid conditions. It strikes a balance: not too thin, not overly thick. Slight runniness can occur, but that's a small compromise. Moreover, the lack of flavoring and strong scents are a big plus for my sensitive skin."
Beauty tip7. Best For Day-To-Night:E.l.f. Lip Lacquer
The sleek and non-sticky formula of the e.l.f lip lacquer is suitable for day as well as nighttime. With a sheer lip gloss formula that goes well with all lipstick shades, the gloss can give your makeup an added intensity and instant appeal. Infused with the goodness of vitamins A and E, the dermatologist-tested gloss provides hydration and shine to the lips. Moreover, the transparent packaging of the lacquer makes it easy to keep track of the product.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Available in multiple shades
- Suitable for a no-makeup look
Cons
- Some might find it too sheer
- Might cause a tingling sensation
"I love the gorgeous shine this lip gloss offers. It is highly pigmented and ensures a smooth glide. I would suggest exfoliating your lips before applying this gloss for effective application."
8. Best For Unique Looks:Covergirl Katy Kat Lip Gloss
This lip gloss comes in 12 vibrant colors, of which four have a shimmery finish and eight have a creamy finish. It gives your lips full coverage and shine with its soft formula while keeping the lips from getting dry and chapped. This shimmering lip gloss comes in a cute cat-shaped lid that is trendy and stylish. The gloss is available in some rare shades.
Pros
- Non-scented
- Easy to remove
- Stays on for long
- Not overly shiny
Cons
- Might feel sticky
- May not prevent your lipstick from feathering
"I'm all for the smooth and non-sticky texture of this lipgloss. It enhances my lips, although I have to coat my lips twice to achieve the desired look."
9. Best For All-Day Moisture:L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Lip Gloss
This lip gloss by L’Oréal contains hydrating omega-3 and vitamin E, which help keep your lips moisturized and protected. It comes in sheer shades to give you just the right hint of shimmer, making it one of the best drugstore lip glosses available. You can apply this hydrating gloss as it is or layer it on any of your favorite lipsticks.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Ideal for everyday use
- Neutral shade suits all skin tones
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May wear off pretty quickly
- Shine may feel a bit subtle for some
"I love this lip gloss as it complements my different lipstick shades and prevents smudging. It offers a non-sticky and sheer finish. While it's not super long-lasting, it's a convenient and versatile small wonder in lipwear."
Point to consider10. Best For Travel-Friendly:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizing Lip Gloss
Keep your lips hydrated and supple for up to 24 hours with the tinted lip glossfrom Neutrogena with just one application. Its tinted formula works as a gloss as well as lipstick, making it a versatile and travel-friendly option. Featuring a non-sticky formula that does not dry the skin, the gloss is suitable for everyday application. This hydrating gloss is also enriched with hyaluronic acid, which improves the tone of the lips and gives them a soft and smooth appearance.
Pros
- Pigmented
- Conditioning effect
- Contains soybean oil
- Available in multiple shades
Cons
- Some colors may not be as bright
- Quantity may be less
"This lip gloss with high-quality ingredients offers optimal hydration with no sticky finish. The shade is slightly darker than I expected, but the gloss is highly pigmented and offers a natural shimmer."
11. Best For Enhanced Beauty:L’Oréal Paris Infallible 8Hr Plumping Lip Gloss
Try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Lip Gloss if you’re looking for lip plumping. It offers visible results and has a creamy and smooth texture that makes your lips look fuller and voluptuous. This lip gloss has the right amount of shimmer to give your lips a glossy finish.
Pros
- Lasts up to eight hours
- Available in eight different shades
- Keeps the lips moist
- Scent is not overpowering
Cons
- Texture may feel sticky
- Leaves the lips a bit dry
"I was looking for a moisturizing lipgloss that is slightly sticky, and I found this beauty. It keeps my lips from drying out and glides smoothly to let me get the desired look."
12. Best For Smoother Lips:Pyt Beauty Lip Gloss
Pyt Beauty’s lip gloss has a non-sticky formula that provides sheer coverage and is suitable for daily use. It is enriched with the goodness of acai berry seed oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, and vitamins to hydrate and nourish your lips. With just a few swipes, this lip product provides visible results–the color of lipstick and the shine of a gloss. Additionally, the tinted lip gloss contains hyaluronic acid that can help smoothen out the tone of the lips while packing hydration.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Cruelty-free lip gloss
- Creates a dewy look
- Suitable for sensitive lips and skin
- Available in multiple shades
Cons
- Some may not like the taste
- May have a strong fragrance
"I find this PYT lip gloss in Warm Rose to be a delightful addition to my routine. The color is vibrant yet subtle on my lips, with a pleasant hint of citrus and vanilla. The texture is buttery soft, and the sparkle is relatively modest. Despite being slightly sticky, it has remained a favorite of mine."
13. Best Luxurious:L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Extraordinaire Lip Gloss
L’Oreal Paris, a celebrity-favorite brand, brings you this luxurious lip gloss. The highly pigmented solution of this tinted gloss gives you a good color impact of lipstick. This could be the best drugstore lip gloss for dark, dusky, as well as fair skin. It not only beautifies the lips, but also keeps them healthy.
Pros
- Micro-oils and rich color pigments
- Subtle color and shine
- Unique soft-touch applicator
- Keeps the lips protected from foreign deposits
Cons
- May feel sticky or gooey
- Might wear off pretty quickly
"This lip gloss has been my favorite for quite a good number of years. It's shimmery, glossy, and highly pigmented, making it right for my lips. It has a mild fragrance, which isn't my favorite, but it fades away quickly."
14. Best For Luscious Lips:L.A. Colors High Shine Clear Lip Gloss
This clear lip gloss from L.A. Colors offers shine and continuous hydration to your lips. It has a non-sticky finish, which makes it one of the best drugstore clear lip glosses while considering layering. This lip gloss comes in a pack of three.
Pros
- Not too watery
- Long-lasting wear
- Moisturizes lips
- Spreads evenly
Cons
- May not work on all lipstick types
- Scent may be slightly intense for some
15. Best For Everyday Use:Max Factor Lipfinity Moisturizing Clear Lip Gloss
Looking for a clear lip gloss that you can use every day? This transparent, natural lip gloss might just be what you need. It has a smooth and shiny formula that makes it the perfect gloss to give your lips a natural shine or to give your matte lipsticks a glossy look.
Pros
- Provides intense moisture to lips
- Attractive design
- Long-lasting wear
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May not provide much shine
- Might slightly alter the lipstick’s color intensity
- Might become flaky after a while
"I use this lipstick as a top coat for my other lipsticks to ensure hydration and prevent smudging. It is not overly glossy, which is just what I want, and holds well even post meals."
16. Best For Bold Expression:Kevyn Aucoin Molten Lip Color
The soft and moisture-rich lip color by Kevyn Aucoin comes in a magenta sapphire shade. Moreover, the lip gloss has a pointed tip to let you apply the solution evenly across the lips and give yourself a more accentuated look. For a wet and glistened look, brush through the brows.
Pros
- Nourishing formula
- Metallic finish
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Transfer-proof
Cons
- May be a bit sheer for some
17. Best Stunning Shine:Nars Lip Gloss
This lip gloss by Nars is available in everyday nudes to bold and bright shades. These are shiny as well as pigmented, so you can use them solo or layer with your favorite lipstick. The lightweight formula of this high-shine lip gloss glides smoothly and offers precise coverage.
Pros
- Convenient doe-foot applicator
- Vibrant colors
- Non-sticky feel
- Suitable for all occasions
- Long-lasting wear
Cons
- May feel heavy for some
- Might seem a bit sheer
"This scent-free lipgloss is a delight withits creamy consistency. The color pairs well with my different lipstick shades and blends faultlessly with my skin tone."
How To Choose The Right Drugstore Lip Gloss?
Here are some guidelines to help you choose the best drugstore lip gloss.
- Skin tone: Browse through the various available shades to find a lip gloss that suits your skin tone. You can also opt for clear formulas for adding a natural, shiny look to your regular lip color.
- Additional features: Pick a lip gloss that can hydrate, plump, repair, and provide other benefits. Some lip glosses with SPF provide UV protection and some also include antioxidants.
- Texture: Choose the texture depending on your preference. From clear to colored lip glosses, shimmery to creamy, various lip glosses are available. Choose a lightweight, non-sticky formula for easy application and a sticky gloss if you are looking for more staying power.
- Easy of use: Consider choosing a lip gloss with an applicator for smooth and precise gliding. The lip gloss should be long-lasting to prevent frequent reapplication.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is lip gloss bad for the lips?
Lip glosses that contain oils, pigments, and a mixture of waxes as the primary ingredients are safe to use on the lips. Some lip gloss formulas may contain chemicals and trace metals more than the permissible levels, making them non-healthy. Choose lip glosses from trusted brands and ensure they are certified safe.
2. Can lip gloss help in healing chapped lips?
Lip glosses containing ingredients such as dimethicone, mineral oil, castor oil, or ceramides may help soothe chapped lips. Using thick ointments such as petroleum jelly, drinking plenty of water, and applying lip balm before applying gloss are some tips recommended by AAD to prevent and treat chapped lips (1).
3. Does lip gloss moisturize lips?
Certain lip glosses may contain moisturizing ingredients that might moisturize the lips temporarily but are not very effective.
4. Are all lip glosses shiny?
Lip glosses are available in different finishes, such as metallic, glossy, frosted, and glittery, thus adding shine to your lips at varying degrees.
5. Are lip glosses long-lasting?
Lip glosses may not be long-lasting like lipsticks. However, some formulas labeled as long-lasting lip gloss may last longer than the average lip gloss, anywhere from two to six hours.
The Bottom Line
If you are looking to highlight your pout, our list of the best drugstore lip glosses can transform your look. When looking for lip glosses, ensure it lasts long without requiring frequent reapplication. Moreover, settling for a lip gloss free of irritants and harmful ingredients and opting for ones with natural ingredients is recommended, as you’re more likely to ingest these lip products while eating. Among the listed options, the Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss attracts attention with its hydrating formula and non-sticky texture. You may also consider the Rimmel Stay Glossy Lip Gloss for its easily blendable creamy texture and the L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss for its shiny finish and delightful scent. With multiple finishes and colors, ensure it matches your skin tone and meets your requirements. So, get ready for a day or night look with shimmery, nourished lips and turn heads.
Infographic: How To Apply Drugstore Lip Glosses?
A perfect lip gloss goes a long way in enhancing your makeup and look. If you want to know ways to apply lip gloss flawlessly, check out this infographic with tips to apply drugstore lip glosses for shiny, gorgeous lips and a confident you. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Limiting Lead in Lipstick and Other Cosmetics
https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/limiting-lead-lipstick-and-other-cosmetics
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is an experienced writer and reviewer of beauty and personal care products. In this post, she provides you with a well-researched list of the best drugstore lip glosses that are budget-friendly and available in different shades and textures. You’ll find lip gloss in her bag anytime, anywhere, and she knows what makes for a good lip product. Check out the list she has compiled and take the tips she offers to pick the right drugstore lip gloss.
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