What Is Lip Oil—and Why You’re About to Be Obsessed

What Is Lip Oil? The Glossy Hydrator Everyone’s Talking About

Let’s start with the basics: Lip oil is exactly what it sounds like—a nourishing, oil-based formula that’s typically packed with ingredients like jojoba, rosehip, avocado, or even squalane oil. It hydrates and protects like a balm, while delivering that glossy, glass-like shine of your favorite lip gloss (but without the stickiness).

So, what makes it different from your other lip products? Unlike glosses that just sit on the surface or balms that soak in fast, lip oils strike that perfect balance. They’re lightweight, silky, and actually penetrate the lips to lock in moisture while giving you a high-shine, glowy finish.

Lip Oil Benefits: Why It’s Better Than Gloss or Balm

Lip oils have quickly become a go-to for makeup artists, dermatologists, and beauty lovers alike—and we totally see why. They’re packed with ultra-hydrating ingredients like argan, coconut, and jojoba oil that go deep to moisturize, soften, and prevent chapping. Unlike sticky glosses that can feel heavy or tacky, lip oils glide on buttery smooth and feel so lightweight, you’ll forget you’re even wearing anything. They also deliver the perfect amount of shine—just enough to give your lips a juicy glow without veering into glitter territory. And the best part? The nourishing ingredients continue to condition your lips even after the shine fades, so your pout stays soft all day. Compared to balms, lip oils feel more luxe and serum-like, and compared to glosses, they’re lighter, more comfy, and actually good for your lips.

How to Use Lip Oil

Spoiler alert: Lip oil is basically foolproof. You can swipe it on just like a gloss, but there are a few pro tips for getting the most out of your lip oil moment:

Use it daily: Apply it solo on no-makeup days for a clean, glossy finish.

Layer it up: Try it over a lip stain or pencil for a shiny finish. Or, try using it as a hydrating base before swiping on your favorite lipstick.

Nighttime treat: Use it before bed as a lip treatment. That way you can get your beauty sleep and wake up to smooth and plump lips.

And yes, most formulas are clear or slightly tinted, so you can wear them literally anywhere.

Why Lip Oil Is the Must-Have Beauty Trend of the Year

Whether you’re a swipe-and-go lip balm kind of girl or the queen of a full lip routine (liner, lipstick, gloss—the works), lip oil belongs in your rotation. It’s easy, it’s hydrating, and it takes your lips from dry and dull to lush and glowy. It’s just an added bonus that the more you use it, the softer and healthier your lips feel.

It’s also the definition of versatile. Stash one in your purse, your nightstand, your beach bag...you get the idea. With skincare-meets-makeup benefits and a juicy, natural-looking sheen, lip oil is the kind of beauty essential you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.