February 15, 2024
What's in your lip gloss?
Find out about our plastic-free and vegan makeup line, infused with hydrating phytoglycogen.
The 90s fashion scene is making a comeback, and what could be better to pair with those cargo pants and bomber jackets thank a deliciously pink lip gloss? Discreetly coloured – yet wondrously glossy – the catalyst for this famous look is a must in any well-stocked makeup bag. But have you ever thought about checking the ingredients in these cosmetics? We’re here to let you in on what’s quite literally on everyone's lips.
What’s the difference between
lip gloss
, lipstick and lip balm?
Lip gloss is used to add lustre to the lips: Some lip glosses are transparent, while others are tinted. Unlike lipstick, which is opaque and showy, lip gloss provides a more discreet and translucent colour. Conversely, lip balm tends to be neither coloured nor glossy, as it’s designed to relieve dry or chapped lips. But although lip gloss is primarily used for aesthetic reasons, it can also contain ingredients with moisturizing properties.
Commonly used ingredients found in
lip gloss
If you’ve ever spent time checking ingredients in cosmetics, you already know that the composition of lip gloss, just like other makeup products, can vary from one brand to the next. There are, however, certain types of ingredients that are found in most formulas.
Emollients
Emollients are ingredients commonly found in skin care and makeup. They act as lubricants to soften the skin and increase its suppleness. Thanks to their occlusive properties, they also prevent water loss.[1] Lanolin – a natural moisturizing wax extracted from sheep's wool – is among the most used emollients. There are also vegan emollients like grapeseed oil, jojoba oil and sunflower oil.
Thickeners
For lip gloss’ effect to last longer than five minutes, its formula must contain ingredients with thickening properties, notably polybutene[2] and polyisobutene.[3] These two synthetic substances are not considered to be of concern by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Other brands, meanwhile, might rely on naturally sourced and vegan-friendly ingredients like C10-18 triglycerides. These fatty acids have thickening and emollient qualities.
Polybutene and polyisobutene are renowned for their ability to increase a formula’s viscosity, which is what gives lip gloss its lustrous texture. But… this can sometimes also result in stickiness. If that’s a feeling you don’t like, then make sure the lip gloss you opt for also includes viscosity controllers like candelilla wax. Another option is using a lip gloss with a texture similar to lip balm.
Cosmetic dyes
Along with providing a glossy look, most glosses also colour the lips which means they contain cosmetic dyes like mica, of mineral or synthetic origin, as well as iron oxides, which are a large group of mineral-origin dyes capable of producing a variety of colours, from red to yellow and even black.
False. However, in the past, some lip glosses were formulated with spermaceti (a fat extracted from a sperm whale’s brain). It’s safe to say that the name of the substance and the name of the whale may have caused some understandable confusion... To learn about ingredients to avoid in your makeup products, check out this article.
Safe
lip gloss
ingredients
Good news! The emollient, thickener and colouring ingredients mentioned above are not cause for concern, according to the EWG’s experts. However, for added peace of mind, you can opt for lip glosses made with naturally sourced and EWG VERIFIED™ ingredients. The EWG’s seal of approval indicates the product does not contain any substances of concern to human health.
Better still, go with a lip gloss that includes a selection of hydrating ingredients: This will allow you to enhance your smile while simultaneously taking care of it. Recommended moisturizing and nourishing ingredients include castor oil, coconut oil, avocado oil and phytoglycogen, which is a rising star in the beauty industry. Plant-derived, phytoglycogen is known for its ability to reduce signs of aging and provide long-lasting hydration. The benefits of phytoglycogen-based makeup can be found right here.
All lip glosses in ATTITUDE’s Oceanly™ line are composed of 99.9% naturally derived ingredients and are EWG VERIFIED™. Their formula includes: phytoglycogen; a vegan collagen substitute to increase lips’ firmness; and algae extracts to restore suppleness and softness.
Phytoglycogen, vegan collagen substitute and algae extracts are all vegan ingredients, which are also the ingredients found in Oceanly™ lip glosses! Take a look at this glossary if you’re interested in checking ingredients in cosmetics.
Different types of
lip glosses
and their various uses
While most come in a liquid format, lip glosses are also available in a stick format with a texture akin to a balm. While the liquid format is ideal for creating a “wet look,” the balm format stands out for its ability to provide a subtle shine without that sticky feeling. Such is the case with Oceanly™ lip glosses. You can finally say goodbye to hair that sticks to your lips at the slightest gust of wind!
These solid lip glosses can be used to create different looks like the sun-kissed look, the glowy look or the “no makeup” makeup look. Pro tip: You can even use your Oceanly™ lip gloss to brighten your cheeks and eyelids!
Sources:
[1] https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/reference/functions
[2] https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/722382-POLYBUTENE/
[3] https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/705061-POLYISOBUTENE/
ultimate
lip gloss master class. If you’re ready to achieve the perfect pout that shines no matter what you put it through (and we mean anything), this one's for you. Learn expert-level lip gloss tricks, from how to prep for gloss application to how to put on lip gloss that lasts all day long and everything in between.
Calling all BUXOM babes: The time has come for thelip gloss master class. If you’re ready to achieve the perfect pout that shines no matter what you put it through (and we mean anything), this one's for you. Learn expert-level lip gloss tricks, from how to prep for gloss application to how to put on lip gloss that lasts all day long and everything in between.
Grab a pen, ladies, because BUXOM is going back to the basics with seven lessons for a flawless lip gloss application, each and every time.
That lip gloss you’ve had in your purse since 2008? Honey, that needs to go. Take a hint from your Fairy Gloss-mother and upgrade how you apply lip gloss with this three-step process.
Flawless lip gloss application begins with a fresh base. For gloss that shines like glass, start by exfoliating your lips to remove any excess lip product or dry skin. BUXOM babes love the dragon fruit-inspired Power-Full Lip Scrub for this step, as the sugar-infused scrub stick makes it a breeze to coat the lips in nourishing papaya seed oil and moisturizing mango seed butter.
BUXOM BABE TIP: Complete your prep sesh with the Power-Full Plump Lip Balm in the shade of your choice. Apply when first starting your makeup routine, so your lips are nourished and plump by the time you’re ready for gloss.
Lip liner is a boss babe’s best-kept secret for how to keep lip gloss from feathering outside of your lip line. To prevent your lip gloss from shifting throughout the day, start with a lip liner similar to your natural lip shade or the shade of your favorite gloss. The more similar the shades, the more seamlessly you can blend the products.
For instance, the Power Line™ Plumping Lip Liner in HUSH HUSH HENNA is the perfect match for the Full-On™ Plumping Lip Polish Gloss in SARINA. Use the top of the chisel-tip lip liner to define each side of your cupid’s bow, then use the rounded part of the pencil to fill in lips. Follow the natural curvature of your lips for a natural look, or line slightly outside your natural lip line for a fuller look.
With your lips polished and primed, it’s time to apply the gloss itself. There are a few methods for applying lip gloss based on your desired look. For a slight shine, dab a small amount of gloss on the middle of your bottom lip and use the built-in blender brush from your Power Line™ Plumping Lip Liner to blend. Avoid rubbing your lips together, as this can cause the gloss to feather.
For a high-coverage shine, apply your lip gloss more like lipstick instead. Use the pointed edge of the doe-foot applicator to swipe your gloss across both your top and bottom lip. The more gloss, the bolder the look — just steer clear of taking your gloss over your lip line.
Now that your makeup 101 lesson is complete, it’s time to turn up the heat on your lip gloss looks. Here’s how to take your gloss from basic to bougie in two simple steps.
Lip gloss after lipstick? Yes, please! Buxom Babes prefer matte lipstick, like the Full-On™ Satin Lipstick, to achieve maximum color payoff with minimum fading. Unlike shimmer or cream formulas, matte lipsticks pack a ton of pigment with minimal moisture. This increases the chances your gloss will remain vibrant and decreases the odds of your gloss shifting and feathering.
Achieve a lip line sharper than your winged eyeliner when you outline your lips with concealer. A concealer that is your shade or one shade lighter can clean up any lip liner mistakes for a perfect gloss application. This lip gloss trick is especially important if you’re going for a bold look, like the Full-On™ Plumping Lip Polish Gloss in NATALIE, a cherry red shimmer.
If you’re looking for how to apply lip gloss that lasts all day, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the top two tips for a long-lasting pout.
Eyeshadows aren’t just for adding a pop of color to the eyelids — they’re perfect for locking in a long-lasting lip gloss, too. Before swiping on your gloss, dab a small amount of eyeshadow across your lip liner or lipstick to give your gloss a better base. Opt for a matte neutral shadow, like the Single Eyeshadow Bar in CASHMERE CRAVING, or a fun metallic shade like the Single Eyeshadow Bar in MINK MAGNET.
No two lip glosses are made the same — some are packed with pearlescent pigment and others are loaded with high-shine color. The one thing every BUXOM lip glosses has in common? They’re all long-lasting. For a gloss that glistens all day, opt for the cult favorite that was formulated with your needs in mind.
The Full-On™ Plumping Lip Polish Gloss is perfect for babes who want a high-shine, shimmering finish, where the Full-On™ Plumping Lip Cream Gloss is the go-to for a creamy, shimmer-free gloss. The mega-plumping clear formula of the Plump Shot™ Collagen-Infused Lip Serum can swipe effortlessly over any lip look.
There’s nothing better than a shiny, plump pout — except for a perfect lip gloss application you can guarantee every time. Now that you know how to put on lip gloss like a boss, stock up on your favorite BUXOM lip glosses to complete your look. And go ahead, tell a friend. These are tips you want to share.
Full-On™ Satin Lipstick
Creamy, satin lipstick , rich color.
Shop Now
Band of Babes™ Plumping Lip Gloss Set
Limited-edition shade duo. $52 value.
Shop Now
Full-On™ Plumping Lip Polish Gloss
Plumps lips, Tantalizing tingle, High-shine.
Shop Now
Power Line™ Plumping Lip Liner
Chisel-tip, defines lips, creamy, matte color.
Shop Now