LIP GLOSS

Yes, lip gloss is considered a type of lip makeup (the lip makeup category also includes lipstick, lip liner, lip oil, and tinted lip balm).

Lip gloss is intended to add shine to your pout and may also provide a tint of color—there are many varieties, some tinted, some clear, and some packed with shimmer. Depending on the formula you use, lip gloss can also have a plumping effect and help moisturize and soften your lips.

Your personal preferences and desired end result can help determine whether you should use lip gloss or lipstick.

• Use lip gloss: If you prefer natural makeup looks or want a wash of color with a glossy, high-shine finish.
• Use lipstick: If you want a bold, statement lip look with a satin or matte finish, or prefer the ease of solid lipsticks.

To apply lip gloss, start at the center of your lips and glide your lip gloss using the included applicator or your preferred lip brush down to the edges of your lips. If you’ve opted to pair your gloss with lip liner or lipstick, apply that first, then layer on your gloss.

Yes, you can apply lip gloss without lipstick. Just swipe your chosen formula onto bare lips and clean up the edges with a cotton swab or tissue, if necessary. If you want a colorful lip look, use a pigmented lip gloss. Keep in mind that no matter which lip gloss you choose, you’ll likely need to reapply your lip gloss throughout the day to maintain the shiny finish.

Standard lip glosses won’t make your lips bigger, but lip plumping glosses, like the Duck Plump High Pigment Plumping Lip Gloss, can help your lips look fuller (temporarily).

How long your lip gloss will last depends on the formula. Some need to be reapplied every couple of hours, while long-lasting lip glosses can provide up to 16 hours of wear without smudging or fading.

To make your lip gloss last longer, use a long-wear formula. You can also prolong the life of your lip gloss if you don’t touch your lips to anything (like a glass or food). Of course, those aren’t necessarily things you want to avoid—if you’re eating or drinking, simply be prepared to reapply.

Some lip glosses can be good for your lips, depending on the formula. If you want to give your lips some TLC while enjoying luscious shine, consider using a hydrating lip gloss.

Not all lip glosses are hydrating, but many are. If hydration is your priority, we recommend opting for a lip gloss-oil hybrid, such as our Fat Oil Lip Drip. It contains a trio of oils—raspberry, cloudberry, and squalane—and leaves the lips feeling hydrated for up to 12 hours.

You can remove standard lip gloss by lightly wiping your lips with a clean tissue or napkin—it should come right off. If you’ve opted for a long-wear formula, we recommend using a lip-safe, oil-based makeup remover. Simply soak a tissue or cotton round with the makeup remover and swipe it over your closed lips to remove the pigment.