The big slick
Today’s lip gloss formulas are less sticky more moisturising and come in a wider variety of textures than ever, meaning you can pick and choose the level of shine you want. Here’s your gloss guide.
Your go-to gloss guide
Shiny
Consider this the gateway gloss. A new generation of subtly shiny formulas – balm-like texture and sheer coverage, so they’re ideal for any occasion. “It’s a no-brainer,” says celebrity makeup artist Carissa Ferreri. “You don’t need a mirror or to fuss around with it too much, and it won’t rub o or get messy.” These easy-going options often have moisturising properties to seriously soften your lips.
Shinier
These glosses are reminiscent of your old-school favourites in terms of colour payo and sheen, but they’re no longer goopy. Applicators have gotten better, too. “We’re seeing the evolution of the wand make it easier to swipe on and control,” says celeb makeup pro Frankie Boyd. Some formulas seem 3D: “They have a prismatic look to them,” says Frankie. You get a nice shine – and cool eects – without having to pile it on.
Shiniest
Love drama? Enter high-voltage glosses. To prep, exfoliation and hydration are key, says Carissa, who mixes a teaspoon of sugar with lip balm to DIY a scrub. For the illusion of plumper lips, start at the centre of your mouth and work your way to the lip line when applying your ultra shiny colour. To prevent smearing, “Blot the gloss on a tissue before you eat,” says Frankie. “You’ll have a nice outline for a post-meal reapplication.”