What Is the Best Lip Oil? A Gen Z’s Guide to Soft, Kissable Lips

Gen Z has officially declared lip oils the MVP of lip care—and honestly, it’s about time. Unlike the sticky glosses of the 2000s or the heavy balms your mum used to recommend, lip oils deliver that perfect balance of hydration and shine without any of the hassle. These lightweight formulas are transforming how we think about lip care. They hydrate like a treatment, shine like a gloss, and feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.

Whether you’re going for that “no-makeup makeup” look or layering over your favourite lipstick, lip oils have become the multitasking hero Gen Z didn’t know they needed. From TikTok beauty routines to everyday essentials, lip oils are having their moment—and for good reason. They’re perfect for our generation’s approach to beauty: effortless, effective, and endlessly versatile.

What Makes Lip Oils Different from Lip Balms and Glosses?

The beauty world loves to throw around product names, but lip oils genuinely occupy their own category. Here’s why they’re not just another lip product:

Lip balms focus purely on protection and healing. They create a barrier against the elements but often feel heavy or waxy on the lips. Great for overnight repair, but not exactly the vibe for daily wear.

Lip glosses are all about that high-shine finish. They make your lips look fuller and more defined but can feel sticky and require constant reapplication. Plus, they have a habit of transferring onto everything you touch.

Lip oils combine the best of both worlds. They contain nourishing oils like jojoba, vitamin E, and natural extracts that actually penetrate your lips rather than just sitting on top. The result? Long-lasting hydration with a natural, glossy finish that never feels heavy or sticky.

The secret lies in their unique oil-based formulas. These ingredients are naturally lightweight and absorb quickly, delivering moisture where your lips need it most while creating that coveted glass-like shine.

Why You Should Switch to Lip Oil (If You Haven’t Already)

Still on the fence about joining the lip oil revolution? Here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your beauty routine:

Deep, lasting hydration sets lip oils apart from everything else. The oil-based formula penetrates deeper than traditional balms, providing moisture that actually lasts. No more reapplying every hour.

Natural plumping effect comes from the hydration itself. Well-moisturised lips look naturally fuller and healthier, giving you that perfect pout without any artificial enhancers.

Versatility is unmatched. Wear them alone for a natural look, layer over matte lipstick for dimension, or use them as a base for longer-lasting colour. They work with any makeup style.

No sticky residue means you can actually live your life. Drink your coffee, eat your lunch, and kiss your partner without leaving a trail of product behind.

Suitable for sensitive lips because most formulas use gentle, natural ingredients. If regular glosses irritate your skin, lip oils often provide a gentler alternative.

Our Top Pick: Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil

After trying countless lip oils, one consistently stands out from the crowd: Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil. This isn’t just another trendy product—it’s a game-changer that delivers on every promise.

What makes Gisou special? It’s all in the honey. Their Mirsalehi honey comes from their own bee garden in the Netherlands, where the family has been beekeeping for six generations. This isn’t just a marketing story—it’s the foundation of a genuinely superior product.

The formula combines honey’s natural humectant properties with bee garden oils and hyaluronic acid. The result is intense hydration that locks in moisture throughout the day, plus that perfect high-shine finish that never feels sticky.

Available in four gorgeous shades:

Honey Gold: A warm, golden glow that complements every skin tone
Watermelon Sugar: Fresh, juicy pink with subtle shimmer
Strawberry Sorbet: Sweet berry tint for everyday wear
Mango Passion Punch: Vibrant coral that adds instant warmth

What sets Gisou apart is its longevity. While other lip oils need constant reapplication, this formula genuinely lasts. The honey creates a protective barrier that keeps your lips soft and glossy for hours.

How to Use Lip Oil for Maximum Glow

Getting the most from your lip oil isn’t rocket science, but these tips will help you achieve that perfect finish:

Start with smooth lips. Gently exfoliate before applying your lip oil—this helps the formula absorb better and creates an even finish. A soft toothbrush or lip scrub works perfectly.

Apply in thin layers. Lip oils work best when applied sparingly. Start with a small amount and build up if needed. Too much product can feel heavy and take longer to settle.

Perfect your timing. For all-day wear, apply in the morning after your skincare routine. For overnight treatment, apply a slightly thicker layer before bed to wake up with incredibly soft lips.

Layer like a pro. Use lip oil as a base under matte lipsticks to prevent drying, or apply over lipstick for added dimension and shine. The versatility is endless.

Don’t forget the corners. Many people focus on the centre of their lips, but applying oil to the corners prevents cracking and creates a more polished look.

How to Choose the Best Lip Oil for You

Not all lip oils are created equal, and finding your perfect match depends on understanding your specific needs:

Assess your lip type first. Do you have naturally dry lips that crack easily? Look for oils with intensive hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. If your lips are generally healthy but you want extra shine, lighter formulas work beautifully.

Consider your colour preferences. Clear oils offer pure shine and work with any makeup look. Tinted versions provide subtle colour while still looking natural. If you love experimenting with colour, choose a brand that offers multiple shades.

Check the ingredient list. Natural oils like jojoba, sweet almond, and vitamin E are gentle and effective. Avoid products with too many synthetic ingredients if you have sensitive skin.

Think about your lifestyle. Need something that lasts through meetings and coffee dates? Choose a long-wearing formula. Prefer to reapply throughout the day? Lighter oils in portable packaging work perfectly.

Test the texture. Some lip oils are thicker and more treatment-focused, while others are lightweight and glossy. Neither is better—it’s about what feels right for you.

FAQs About Lip Oils

Can I use lip oil if I have sensitive skin?
Absolutely. Most lip oils use gentle, natural ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation than traditional glosses. Look for products with soothing ingredients like chamomile or honey. Always patch-test new products if you have known sensitivities.

Will lip oil make my lips feel greasy?
Quality lip oils shouldn’t feel greasy at all. They’re designed to absorb quickly while leaving a smooth, glossy finish. If a lip oil feels heavy or greasy, it’s likely either applied too thickly or not a high-quality formula.

How often should I apply lip oil?
This depends on the formula and your individual needs. Good lip oils typically last 3–4 hours with normal talking and drinking. Reapply as needed, but most people find they need fewer applications than with traditional lip products.

Is lip oil better than lip gloss?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Lip oils provide better hydration and feel more comfortable for extended wear. Glosses typically offer more dramatic shine and colour payoff. Many people use both for different occasions.

Can lip oil be worn alone or does it need lipstick?
Lip oils are perfect for solo wear. They provide a natural, healthy-looking finish that’s ideal for no-makeup days or minimalist looks. The subtle shine and hydration create beautiful lips without any additional products needed.

Transform Your Lip Game Today

Lip oils represent everything modern beauty should be: effective, comfortable, and effortlessly chic. They’ve moved beyond trend status to become genuine essentials for anyone who values healthy, beautiful lips.

The beauty of lip oils lies in their simplicity. No complicated application techniques, no worrying about smudging or transferring—just healthy, glossy lips that look naturally perfect.

Whether you’re new to lip oils or ready to upgrade your current routine, choosing the right product makes all the difference. Quality formulas like Gisou’s honey-infused oil deliver results that cheap alternatives simply can’t match.

Ready to join the lip oil revolution? Shop the Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil and discover why thousands of beauty lovers swear by this game-changing formula. Your lips (and your future self) will thank you.