best clear drugstore lip gloss
Clear lip gloss has become a staple for many makeup enthusiasts due to its versatility, ease of use, and the beautiful, dewy shine it offers. Whether you're aiming for a natural, glossy look or want to layer it over lipstick for a shiny pop, clear lip gloss is your go-to option. However, with so many choices on the market, finding the best clear drugstore lip gloss can be a challenge. Luckily, drugstore brands offer high-quality options that deliver a shiny finish without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into why you should choose a clear gloss and explore the best drugstore options for 2025.
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best clear drugstore lip gloss |
What Makes a Lip Gloss “Clear”?
Clear lip gloss is, as the name suggests, a transparent lip gloss that provides shine and moisture without adding any color. It is often used alone for a subtle glossy effect or layered over other lip products to enhance their color and finish. Key ingredients in clear glosses usually include oils (like coconut or castor oil), waxes, and various moisturizing agents. These formulas ensure that your lips stay hydrated, soft, and shiny without feeling sticky or heavy.
Common Ingredients in Clear Glosses:
- Castor oil: Known for its hydrating properties.
- Shea butter: Adds moisture and smoothness.
- Beeswax: Helps seal in moisture and adds a non-stick finish.
Why Choose a Clear Lip Gloss?
Clear lip gloss is a universal beauty product, offering several advantages:
Versatility for Everyday Wear
Clear gloss works well with any look. Whether you're going for a minimalist, no-makeup look or adding a glossy finish to bold lipstick, it's a perfect match.
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Layering Over Other Lip Products
Clear gloss adds shine without disrupting the color of your lip liner or lipstick. It can transform matte lip products into more hydrated, glossy finishes.
Hydration and Shine
One of the most appealing reasons to use a clear gloss is its ability to keep your lips hydrated while providing an instant shine boost.
What to Look for in the Best Clear Drugstore Lip Gloss
When searching for the best clear drugstore lip gloss, consider these important factors:
- Hydration and Moisture-Boosting Ingredients: Choose a formula that includes moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid to keep your lips soft.
- Longevity and Non-Stick Formula: A high-quality gloss will stay in place for a few hours without transferring easily or becoming sticky.
- Applicator Design: Look for a gloss with an easy-to-use applicator, such as a doe-foot or angled brush, which allows for smooth, even application.
Top Features of High-Quality Clear Lip Gloss
The best clear drugstore lip gloss options often share the following top features:
- Shiny Finish: Glosses should provide a mirror-like shine that makes your lips look plump and hydrated.
- Smooth Texture: A high-quality gloss should glide smoothly on your lips without tugging or feeling sticky.
- Non-Tacky Formula: Look for glosses that offer moisture without leaving a sticky or heavy residue.
How We Tested the Best Clear Drugstore Lip Glosses
To help you find the perfect clear lip gloss, we put several drugstore options to the test. Our testing process included:
- Wearability: We wore each gloss throughout the day to assess comfort, ease of application, and whether it stayed in place.
- Longevity: We tracked how long each gloss stayed shiny and hydrated, especially during eating and drinking.
- Hydration: We tested each gloss to see how it affected the moisture level of our lips, ensuring that they stayed soft and supple.
The Best Clear Drugstore Lip Gloss Options of 2025
Here’s a roundup of the best clear drugstore lip gloss options for 2025:
- NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss – Loved for its smooth, non-sticky formula and impressive shine.
- Maybelline New York Lip Lifter Gloss – A top choice for hydration with a plumping effect.
- e.l.f. Cosmetics Lip Lacquer – An affordable option offering high-impact shine.
- Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss – Known for its glossy finish and classic appeal.
- L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Gloss – A luxurious yet affordable gloss with nourishing properties.
NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss
NYX’s Butter Gloss is often hailed as one of the best clear lip glosses. It offers a smooth, hydrating texture and is available in multiple shades, including clear options. The gloss doesn’t feel sticky and provides a high-shine finish that lasts for hours without needing constant touch-ups.
- Non-sticky and hydrating
- Great color payoff
- Versatile for layering
- Might transfer slightly when eating or drinking
Maybelline New York Lip Lifter Gloss
Maybelline’s Lip Lifter Gloss is ideal for anyone seeking hydration with a plumping effect. The formula includes hyaluronic acid, which is known for its skin-plumping properties. It delivers both hydration and shine while adding a touch of fullness to the lips.
- Provides a plumping effect
- Hydrating and non-sticky
- Great for creating fuller lips
- Slightly thick texture
e.l.f. Cosmetics Lip Lacquer
e.l.f.’s Lip Lacquer is a budget-friendly option with high-shine impact. The formula includes jojoba oil, which helps moisturize and keep lips soft. It provides a clear, glossy finish that’s perfect for layering over other lip products.
- Affordable and effective
- Provides a high-gloss shine
- Moisturizing formula
- Some may find it slightly sticky
Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss
Revlon’s Super Lustrous Lip Gloss is a cult favorite due to its long-lasting formula and glossy shine. It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear, and it provides a clear finish that complements various lip colors.
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- Lightweight and comfortable
- Glossy finish
- Long-lasting
- Some shades may be too sheer for those who prefer more pigment
L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lip Gloss
L’Oréal’s Colour Riche Lip Gloss combines the best of luxury and drugstore affordability. It features a blend of nourishing oils and provides a smooth, glossy finish that hydrates your lips all day long.
- Enriched with nourishing oils
- High-shine and smooth texture
- Great for dry lips
- Can wear off quickly when eating
How to Apply Clear Lip Gloss for the Best Results
For the perfect clear gloss application:
- Start with Clean Lips: Exfoliate lips to remove any dead skin for a smooth base.
- Apply with Precision: Use the applicator to swipe the gloss evenly across your lips. Avoid over-applying to prevent excess buildup.
- Layer Over Lipstick: For added depth, apply clear gloss over your favorite lipstick or lip liner.
Clear Lip Gloss vs. Tinted Lip Gloss
The main difference between clear and tinted lip gloss is the level of color they provide. While clear glosses offer shine and hydration, tinted glosses add a subtle hint of color. If you want a more natural, no-makeup look, clear gloss is the better choice. However, tinted gloss can be great for adding a little more dimension to your lips.
Best Clear Drugstore Lip Glosses for Every Budget
Finding the best clear drugstore lip gloss depends on your preferences for texture, hydration, and shine. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option like e.l.f. or a luxurious pick like L’Oréal, the glosses on our list provide excellent results without breaking the bank.
FAQs
Which drugstore clear lip gloss lasts the longest?
The NYX Butter Gloss and Revlon Super Lustrous Gloss are known for their long-lasting wear.
Does clear lip gloss hydrate your lips?
Yes, many clear glosses contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid to keep your lips hydrated.
Can clear lip gloss be used over lipstick?
Absolutely! Clear gloss works beautifully as a topcoat over any lip color, adding extra shine and moisture.
Is clear lip gloss sticky?
Some formulas can feel slightly sticky, but most top drugstore brands offer non-tacky options for a smooth finish.
How do I apply clear lip gloss without making a mess?
Use a precise applicator and avoid over-applying. Patting your lips together after applying can help evenly distribute the gloss.