4 universal lip glosses for everyday and evening make-up looks
In recent years, the lip gloss industry has seen a resurgence, with this staple beauty product moving far beyond its sticky, high-shine reputation. Nowadays, there are thousands of lip glosses that you can choose from, with a variety of different formulas that work for everyone. So, if you stay away from lip glosses due to their gloopy and sticky texture, you might want to think again. With so many styles to choose from, you’re sure to find one that you love.
So, you want to start wearing lip glosses, but don’t want to buy one for every occasion? Well, don’t fret, this blog aims to provide you with 4 lip glosses that can effortlessly carry you from fresh, underrated daytime looks to bold, dramatic evening glamour.
These 4 universal lip glosses should cover all your needs, whether you have a pale skin tone or you choose to wear more bold makeup. Investing in a few dependable options not only helps you to save time but streamline your beauty routine.
Without further ado, here are 4 lip glosses that fit every occasion!
What makes a lip gloss ‘universal’
A universal lip gloss complements a wide range of skin tones, lip tones and makeup styles without requiring much effort, any time, rain or shine. A Universal lip gloss will look great whether you’re doing a long shift in a restaurant or you’re going on a fancy night-time dinner date. The best colours for these typically feature balanced undertones such as neutral pinks, soft nudes, or sheer berries that help to complement and enhance the lip rather than overpower it.
Finish is key when it comes to glosses, and makes or breaks it for most people. Buildability is key in formulas, so its important the lip glosses is both shiny, and has a non-stick comfortable application. The most important thing is to avoid those moments where your hair is stuck in your lip gloss on a windy day.
1. The perfect nude gloss for every day
The everyday nude gloss is a makeup essential for effortless polish with minimal effort that can go from office to night out with ease. Usually, this type of nude gloss enhances the natural colour of the lips rather than masking it, making it flattering for all as it doesn’t overpower the face.
Pair this with a tinted moisturiser, some mascara and a bit of blush for a natural but fresh daytime look and then add a brown liner under to make the look a bit more dramatic for a night out.
The perfect nude example is the Refy Beauty lip gloss in dusk, that perfect for all skin types and has an easy applicator for buildability.
2. The soft pink enhancer
A soft pink lip gloss is the ultimate go-to when you want to look fresh, youthful and want to add a bit of colour to your lips in an effortless way. Universally flattering, pink shades mimic a natural flush and can be coordinated with eyeshadow and blush for a monotone look, which has been trending recently.
This look fairs beautifully with a light base for a soft look that instantly brightens up the face. For a more intense look, this gloss can be layered over a pink lipstick or even a brown liner for an ombre two-toned look.
A great option for a pink-toned gloss is the butter gloss from NYX. It has a smooth and buildable consistency and is available at a very affordable price range.
3. The Berry mauve all-rounder
The berry mauve lip gloss is one of the most versatile shades you can own due to its buildability and perfect balance of pinks, browns and subtle purple undertones. Whether you have warm or cold undertones, a berry lip gloss is much bolder than previously mentioned, but still delivers a universally flattering impact, especially for darker undertones or days out and nighttime drinks with the girls.
Due to glosses buildability, you can control the power of colour, so when it comes to the evening, you can layer the product for an almost lipstick-type effect. For fuller lips its best to apply the gloss slightly beyond the centre of the lips and focus the shine toward the cupid’s bow. This avoids gloss build-up around the lips and provides great definition for an ombre look.
A great option for a berry mauve all-round gloss is the Revolution Pout Bomb, with its thick but precise applicator and pumping elements for a bigger pout.
4. The clear, high shine gloss
A quality, clear gloss is one of the most underrated yet powerful products in any makeup collection. Its strengths lie in its versatility, as worn alone, it can enhance the lips’ natural colour and shape for a more casual, fresher everyday look. When layered over lipstick or a lip stain, a gloss can completely transform the colour and vibe of a look, taking it from night to day in moments. For a dramatic evening look, you can pair a bold and glossed lip with a smoky eyeliner and a sharply contoured face for the perfect going-out look.
Clear gloss is where formula matters the most; a non-stick and smooth texture ensures maximum comfort and avoids lips sticking together when talking. It’s also recommended to go for a gloss that has moisturising properties, so you don’t have to double up on lip balm and lip gloss. It can also help lessen the appearance of fine lines in the lips.
A great recommendation for a clear gloss is the Kiko Milano 3D Hydro Gloss with its moisturising and non-sticky formula.
Best application techniques
The best way to apply lip gloss is to start with smooth, well-prepared lips, ensuring an even and long-lasting finish. Begin by gently exfoliating the lips with a lip exfoliant, such as a wet towel and then moisturise with cream or a lip balm with a thin formula.
For a clean and more defined look, you can first line with a skin-coloured lip pencil or, for a bolder look, a coloured lip pencil. Start by applying gloss at the centre of the lips and then work outwards, concentrating on creating a thin and even layer.
Guest post by Esme Sheppard
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