If there's one thing I hate, it's having dry lips. As much as I love wearing lipstick, I find that my lips feel chapped minutes after applying it, which means I often forgo this part of my makeup routine in favour of a much less glamorous lip balm that I know will keep my skin hydrated. At least that was the case before I discovered the magical world of lip oils. If you're not yet familiar with this product, then let me introduce you.
A couple of years ago I saw lots of content creators raving about lip oils on TikTok. As much as I loved the look of the shiny finish, I was quick to dismiss the product as a gimmick that would do nothing more than leave a sticky residue on my lips without actually hydrating the skin. Then, around a year ago I started noticing more and more lip oils arriving on my desk at work. I was quickly won over by the chic packaging and the promise of a glossy, plump finish, so I decided to give one a go. Don't get me wrong, after trying out my fair share of them, there are definitely some lip oils that do just leave you with a sticky residue, but after months of testing, I'd like to think that I have come up with the perfect edit of lip oils that actually deliver on their promises. Best of all, they do this without breaking the bank.
It's no secret that some lip oils can cost a small fortune, and although I believe that a handful of them are worth the investment, I also stand by the fact that there are plenty of affordable lip oils on the market that do just as good a job. So, without further ado, keep on scrolling for my beauty-editor approved roundup of the best affordable lip oils (we're talking £20 and under) that not only hydrate the lips but leave you with a perfectly glossy pout. Lipstick who?
Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, before applying lip oil.
Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay, after applying lip oil.
What Is a Lip Oil?
I should probably start by explaining exactly what a lip oil is. I like to think of it as a lip multitasker, as not only does the oil formula nourish the skin, but it also leaves a super glossy finish. Some lip oils are completely clear, while others come in a range of different shades. These shades don't tend to be hugely pigmented, instead adding a subtle wash of colour to the lips.
Although it can vary from product to product, most lip oils will contain hydrating ingredients such as squalane, cherry oil, jojoba oil and peptides alongside antioxidants to help protect the skin.
8 of the Best Affordable Lip Oils
- Best plumping lip oil: Beauty Pie Wondergloss™ Collagen Lip Oil +
- Best scented lip oil: E.l.f Glow Reviver Lip Oil
- Best all rounder: Vieve Lip Dew
- Best drugstore lip oil: Rimmel Oh My Gloss! Lip Oil
- Best glossy lip oil: Kosas Wet Lip Oil Gloss
- Best affordable lip oil: Lottie London Oil Slick Lip Oil
- Best nourishing lip oil: Versed Silk Slip Conditioning Tinted Lip Oil
- Best tinted lip oil: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil
1. Beauty Pie Wondergloss™ Collagen Lip Oil +
Price shown is members' price.
First up is Beauty Pie's Wondergloss™ Collagen Lip Oil +. Available in five different shades, this nourishing formula contains hibiscus and cherry oils to leave your lips feeling oh so soft. Not only that, but it also contains collagen for a plumping effect.
2. E.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil
This tinted lip oil from Elf not only contains apricot oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil and pomegranate oil, but it also features squalane to help increase hydration. Oh, and did I mention the fresh minty scent? Yep, you'll want to be applying this all day long.
3. Vieve Lip Dew
This is easily one of the prettiest lip oils I own. In my opinion, it looks just like a gloss while still managing to soothe dry lips thanks to raspberry seed oil extract and green tea extract. I do have to top it up a little bit throughout the day, but whenever I do everyone always asks me what lip gloss I am wearing.
4. Rimmel Oh My Gloss! Lip Oil
New from Rimmel, this lip oil is another great option for those of you who want a really glossy finish. Not only does it add a beautifully sheer tint, but coconut oil, passionfruit, raspberry oil and vitamin E ensure that the formula is super nourishing.
5. Kosas Wet Lip Oil Gloss
I can't remember the last time I left the house without this product in my bag. This lip oil gloss is the perfect hybrid between a hydrating oil and a shiny lip gloss. With lots of different shades on offer, you are bound to find one that you love.
6. Lottie London Oil Slick Lip Oil
I've got to be honest, for just £6 I didn't have high hopes for this product, but oh was I wrong. With its almond oil-infused formula, it leaves your lips feeling replenished while adding a beautiful shine.
7. Versed Silk Slip Conditioning Tinted Lip Oil
Versed's lip treatment is a bestseller for a reason. The formula features a cocktail of nourishing ingredients housed in a handy tube that is perfect for throwing in your bag. With three shades to choose from, there's an option for every occasion.
8. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil
Yep, even one of my favourite celebrity beauty brands does a nourishing lip oil. This unique gel-to-oil formula adds a hint of colour and can be layered for a more statement finish.
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