Every girl loves to have a mix of lipsticks and lip glosses in her makeup bag. No matter how many she already owns, there’s always space for more. The reason is simple. These products help you try different makeup looks, and they never go out of style. But have you ever thought about the real difference between lipstick and lip gloss? They may look like similar lip products, but they are actually very different in many ways. Let’s break it down and understand the 5 major differences between lipstick and lip gloss.
Difference in Texture
When you hold a lipstick and a lip gloss in your hands, the first thing you will notice is how different they feel.
Lipstick usually has a thick and creamy texture. It comes in a solid stick form, which you can twist and apply directly on your lips. Some lipsticks are matte, which means they look dry and don’t shine. Others can be creamy or satin, which gives a soft shine without feeling sticky. Lipsticks feel smooth and soft when applied, and they stay in place for hours.
Lip gloss is more like a liquid. It has a thin, sticky, and shiny texture. It comes in tubes or bottles with a wand or brush. When you apply lip gloss, it feels wet and glossy. It is perfect for that shiny, glowing lip look. But lip gloss doesn’t last very long and may need to be reapplied during the day.
If you like smooth, rich colour that stays for long, lipstick is your friend. If you love shine and gloss, lip gloss is the way to go.
Difference in Finish
The finish of a lip product means how your lips look after applying it. Lipstick and lip gloss give very different finishes.
Lipstick gives your lips a bold and defined look. Matte lipsticks make lips look smooth and even, while creamy lipsticks add a little shine. Lipsticks are all about colour. Whether you want red, pink, nude, or brown, lipsticks give you full coverage with just one swipe.
Lip gloss gives your lips a soft, shiny, and sometimes wet look. Some lip glosses come with glitter or shimmer to add extra sparkle. Others are tinted, giving a hint of colour with a lot of shine. Lip gloss doesn’t give a strong colour like lipstick. It is more for that fresh, juicy look.
If you are going for a polished, bold look, go with lipstick. If you want something shiny and playful, lip gloss is the better choice.
Difference in Benefits
Both lipstick and lip gloss do more than just add colour or shine. They also come with their own set of benefits.
Lipstick can be full of skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, vitamin E, jojoba oil, and more. These ingredients help to nourish your lips and keep them soft. Matte lipsticks may feel dry, but many modern ones are made with hydrating formulas. Some lipsticks even come with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage. Lipstick can also brighten your whole face and complete your makeup look.
Lip gloss is usually very hydrating. Because it has a gel or oil-like texture, it helps lock in moisture. If your lips are dry or chapped, using a lip gloss can help soothe and hydrate them. Many glosses also have ingredients like hyaluronic acid, essential oils, and vitamin E to nourish your lips.
In short, lipstick adds colour and confidence. Lip gloss adds moisture and shine.
Difference in Usage and Versatility
When we talk about lipstick vs lip gloss, we must also think about how you can use them in different ways, not just on your lips.
Lipstick is one of the most versatile makeup products. You can:
- Use it on your lips for a bold colour
- Dab it on your cheeks as a cream blush
- Use brown lipstick as contour for a sculpted look
- Apply red or orange lipstick under your foundation as a colour corrector
- Use liquid lipstick as eyeliner with a brush
- Use it as an eyeshadow base for a full glam look
Lip gloss is less versatile but still useful in creative ways. You can:
- Use it on top of your lipstick to make it shiny
- Apply it on eyelids to create a glossy eyeshadow look
- Use it on your cheekbones as a dewy highlighter
- Mix a little gloss with pigments to make your custom lip shade
When you want one product that can do it all, lipstick wins. But lip gloss can still be your go-to for that glowing, trendy look.
Difference in Lasting Power
Another big difference between lipstick and lip gloss is how long they last after applying.
Lipstick, especially matte and transfer-proof formulas, can last for many hours. Some even stay on after eating or drinking. That’s why they are perfect for long events, office hours, or special occasions. You can apply it in the morning and it may last until evening with just one touch-up.
Lip gloss doesn’t stay as long. Because of its sticky and shiny texture, it wears off faster. If you eat or drink, you might need to reapply it. But that’s not a problem for people who love touching up and keeping their lips glossy all day.
If you want something long-lasting, go with lipstick. If you’re okay with a few touch-ups for that extra shine, lip gloss is perfect.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the major differences between lipstick and lip gloss, you can choose what suits your mood and look. You don’t have to pick just one. Most girls like to have both in their vanity so they can mix and match as needed.
Here’s a quick comparison table for you:
| Feature | Lipstick | Lip Gloss |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Thick and creamy | Thin and sticky |
| Finish | Matte or creamy | Glossy and shiny |
| Benefits | Colour, SPF, nourishing oils | Hydration, shine, plumping effect |
| Usage | Lips, blush, contour, eyes, corrector | Lips, eyelids, highlighter |
| Lasting Power | Long-lasting (4 to 10 hours) | Short-lasting (1 to 3 hours) |
So next time you are choosing between a lip gloss and a lipstick, ask yourself what look you want to create. If you want colour and confidence, pick a lipstick. If you want shine and softness, pick a lip gloss. Or you can layer both for the best of both worlds.
And remember, no matter how many lipsticks and lip glosses you buy, there will never be enough. So keep trying new shades and enjoy creating new looks every day.