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By Anisa Kauser • March 17, 2025 • 4 mins read
Beauty’s latest obsession? Lip oils. These glossy hybrids have dethroned matte liquid lipsticks, with sales increasing by 78% in just one year. In recent years, lip oils have dominated the market, providing that right blend of glossy sheen, nourishing ingredients, and buildable color that beauty lovers can’t get enough of—offering effortless application while improving lip health with each use. This shift reflects the industry’s overall shift toward products that target skin wellness without sacrificing aesthetics.
What’s driving this glossy revolution, and why are these hydrating hybrids becoming everyone’s new makeup bag essential? Let’s dive into the world of lip oils and discover why they are winning a spot in our beauty lover’s hearts.
Lip product trends have been continuously evolving since the 1990s. The 2010s saw ultra-matte liquid lipsticks dominate the beauty space, with brands racing to create the longest-lasting, most transfer-proof formulas. However, this trend eventually faded as beauty enthusiasts grew tired of dry, uncomfortable lips. Lip gloss made a brief comeback around 2018, bringing shine back into trend after years of flat finishes. This nostalgia-driven comeback has set the stage for lip oils – a modern hybrid offering the shine of gloss with the nourishing benefits of oil. TikTok significantly accelerated the lip oil trend, with viral reviews pushing products like Dior Lip Glow Oil into must-have status.
Lip oils have been gaining popularity thanks to their awesome skincare benefits. They contain natural oils like jojoba and coconut that deeply hydrate lips without making them feel sticky. These products actually repair the lip barrier, which is super important since lips have thinner skin with fewer oil glands than the rest of your face. Many lip oils also fight aging with ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid. They help fix severely dry, flaking lips by moisturizing while dissolving dead skin cells. Beauty experts have reported having smoother, healthier lips within just a few weeks since making the switch.
Lip oil products are everywhere now, with options for every budget. Luxury brands like Dior lead with their Lip Glow Oil, which changes color based on your pH level. In the mid-range, Rare Beauty’s Stay Vulnerable Glossy Lip Balm offers buildable color with plant-based oils. Drugstore brands have jumped on the trend too – e.l.f.’s Glow Reviver Lip Oil delivers similar benefits at a fraction of the price. Many brands have expanded beyond clear formulas, now offering sheer tints and even pigmented options.
Packaging has also evolved, with applicators specifically designed to evenly distribute oil without leaving behind a sticky mess. It’s now possible to find great formulas at various price points, with the best value often found in Korean beauty brands.
Adding lip oils to your beauty routine is super easy and gives amazing results. For maximum shine and staying power, apply a thin layer to clean lips, wait 30 seconds for it to absorb, then add another layer. Lip oils work great alone or layered with other products. Try using them over with just lip liner for a defined but glossy look, on top of your favourite lip combo to add a little shine, or under lipstick to keep lips comfortable all day. Switch up your lip oil routine with the seasons – lighter formulas work best in summer, while thicker, more nourishing oils protect lips during harsh winter months.
For an intensive treatment, apply a generous layer before bed to wake up with soft, plump lips.
The dominance of lip oils in today’s beauty landscape represents more than just another fleeting trend—it signals a fundamental shift in how we approach lip care and color. By seamlessly blending the nourishing benefits of skincare with the aesthetic appeal of makeup, lip oils have carved out a permanent place in our beauty routines. As formulations continue to evolve and brands innovate with new ingredients and delivery systems, the future looks very promising for this category. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just starting in the world of lip oils, one thing is clear: there will continue to be a growing demand for nourishing lip products with sheer color payoff for you to explore.
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