I Dislike Wearing Lipstick—Here Are 8 Moisturizing Alternatives I Rely on Instead.
Does anyone else find that even the best lipsticks can be quite drying? No matter how much I prepare my lips in advance, I can almost bet that after applying lipstick in the morning, they'll be dry and chapped by lunchtime. This is something I've come to accept over the years, and I often end up opting for one of my favorite lip liners paired with a hydrating lip balm or gloss instead. Consequently, I have an abundance of lip products in my handbag, and to be honest, I miss the simplicity of just using one lipstick to apply and go. So, when I noticed a colleague using the Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm, I was instantly interested. If you've tried this product, you'll know that a single swipe offers remarkable color, a glossy finish, and a moisturizing formula, without the need for additional balms, liners, or glosses. This prompted me to look into more glossy lip balm hybrids, revealing a wide range of hydrating, high-quality lip products available.
With brands like Jones Road and Gucci recently introducing their versions of glossy lip balms, I’ve been busy trying the top options on the market, and have put together a concise selection of products that truly provide nourishing formulas and exceptional finishes. If you're also not a fan of traditional lipsticks, I highly recommend checking out my suggestions below.
**The Best Glossy Lip Balms, Tried & Tested**
**Best Overall:** Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm, £36
**Best Glossy Option:** Jones Road Lip Recharge, £24
**Best for On-the-Go Application:** Estée Lauder Pure Colour Melt-On Glosstick, £34
**Best Hydrating Choice:** Rhode Peptide Lip Tint, £20
**Best for Blurred Lips:** Westman Atelier Hydrobalm Tinted Lipstick, £45
1. **Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm**
**Best overall**
Pros: Super hydrating, provides impressive color, glass-like shine
Cons: Packaging (and application) can be a bit messy
I consider this Hourglass lip product to be the top glossy balm on the market. With its three-in-one hybrid formula, it hydrates lips, adds a wonderful splash of color, and delivers a glossy finish. The gold packaging is incredibly stylish, and there’s a wide array of shades available (I’ve been using Rouse, a true chestnut, as my go-to evening color). One thing to note is that the applicator can be somewhat messy, but beyond that, I can’t fault the nourishing, glass-like finish. If you're seeking a lipstick alternative that mimics the look of lipstick but feels like a lightweight, non-sticky balm, this is the product for you.
2. **Jones Road Lip Recharge**
**Best glossy option**
Pros: Super hydrating, very glossy
Cons: Applicator can be a bit messy, finish is more sheer
This new release from Jones Road exceeded all my expectations. While I’d categorize it more as a lip balm, it provides a sheer wash of color and impressive shine. There are nine shades available (including a clear option), and the formula features moisture-boosting peptides. I love that it creates an ultra-glossy finish without the annoying stickiness. The cooling metal applicator is a nice addition, though it can get a bit messy at times. I enjoy wearing this alone during the day, and layering the clear version over my favorite lip liner for evening looks.
3. **Estée Lauder Pure Colour Melt-On Glosstick**
**Best for applying on the go**
Pros: Easy to apply, adds a pop of color to the lips, comfortable to wear, very glossy
Cons: Would love to see more shades in the future
When I interviewed Daisy Edgar-Jones, she mentioned this was one of her favorite beauty products, so I had to try it immediately. After testing, I understand why it has Daisy’s approval. Although there are only eight shades available, each one offers a vibrant pop of color. The formula starts as a solid gloss that warms up on contact with the lips, resulting in a liquid, glass-like finish that appears incredibly shiny. It’s visually appealing, comfortable to wear, and easy to apply, which is why it has become a staple in my handbag.
4. **Rhode Peptide Lip Tint**
While Rhode's lip product is generally deemed a lip balm, it provides an exceptionally glossy finish, making it one of the best glossy lip balm hybrids out there. It may not deliver a strong color payoff like a lipstick, but it creates a sheer tint that looks shiny, feels hydrating, and is easy to reapply.
5. **Westman Atelier Hydrobalm Tinted Lipstick**
**Best for blurred lips**
Pros: Lightweight, nourishing formula, buildable color
Cons: More expensive,
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I Dislike Wearing Lipstick—Here Are 8 Moisturizing Alternatives I Rely on Instead.
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