The 10 best clear lip glosses we reviewed in 2021

2022-05-14 09:10:17 By : Ms. Christine Zhao

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While the self-proclaimed best lip color is subject to change year after year, one thing doesn’t — the trusty, glam-evoking clear lip gloss.

Whether channeling Blair Waldorf with a mauve, highly pigmented lipstick or deciding to go bold for the evening with a spicy red lip, one thing is for certain: my bottom lip is being saturated with a glossy shimmer to tie the whole look together.

And, if you’re looking to do a 180 makeup refresh, check out our full-coverage guide to the best foundations we tested — an edit of nearly 40 formulations.

Since no two lip products were created equal, we put a few of the most popular glosses to the test and explained the subtle differences between one shade to the next.

That said, since we only tested clear glosses, they are surely all comparable. So, whether you’re a die-hard lover of everything Too Faced or are looking for a new brand to try, we have you covered (and glossy).

As a brand taking up nearly 75% of my vanity’s rent, Anastasia Beverly Hills surely didn’t disappoint with its Diamond Lip Gloss. It adds a beautiful shimmer, provides a smooth formula and is my most recommended clear gloss to date.

If you’re looking for an ultra-sparkling clear gloss, Bite Beauty’s Yaysayer Plumping Lip Gloss in Sugar Drizzle is your best bet. With a tube-like applicator — not a brush, uniquely — it was one of the best for giving my bottom lip a full plumped-out look.

Meet my favorite all-around lip gloss. As its name suggests, Hourglass’ gloss is “unreal” and a true “high-shine” formula. Its Truth shade — a beige rose that’s my new fall lip color — instantly felt satin-like upon applying and is perfect for creating a lively shimmery tint.

But, though all other shades are great for that ‘lipstick and gloss in one’ product, its Halo shade is the star of the show for this edit. Plus, the line has a refreshing cooling effect.

Though not quite clear, ITEM Beauty by Addison Rae’s Lip Quip in Come Thru has a sheer peachy sheen that is one of my absolute faves. Plus, the formula is sweet-smelling and lasts all day.

Hellooo fruity-smelling lip gloss. The Lawless Forget The Filler Lip Plumper Line Smoothing Gloss is truly delectable and is one of the thickest clear lip glosses we tested — and it truly does plump. That said, it’s going to be one of my most reached-for lippies.

Let’s talk budget. Sephora Collection’s Glossed Lip Gloss in Boss is your next purchase if you want to try the glossy look but don’t want to spend the big bucks. Plus, it does the job nicely.

Nearly identical to the brand’s Glossed Lip Gloss, the Sephora Collection Ultra Shine Lip Gloss in Totally Lucid is a wonderful option for only $2 more. The difference? It has a slightly smaller brush applicator to control where the gloss sparkles.

If you want the faintest hint of sparkle on your lips, pick up Too Faced’s Lip Injection Extreme Lip Plumper. It’s not as “plumping” as other clear glosses tested, but it’s a great option if you don’t want to turn your lips into a disco ball (or, if you want something light to go over a bold lip).

Now, here’s the plumper. Too Faced’s Lip Injection Power Plumping Lip Gloss not only garnishes your lips with a sought-after shine but also has a tingly effect — so you know it’s actually giving your lips a lip injection (without the surgery) look.

For the perfect clear shade, try Stars Are Aligned. Aside from clear, I regularly reach for ‘Just Friends‘ for a subtle baby pink hue.

As one of the most affordable clear lip gloss on this list, you can’t go wrong with Tower 28 Beauty’s Clean ShineOn Jelly Lip Gloss in Magic. For the price, it’s well worth it; it coated my lips with a stunning, hydrating dazzle.

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