Lip gloss is having an evolutionary moment. First it was peel-off formulas and pigmented lip oils; now, the pendulum has swung back to the lip gloss mark. Its reputation has been spearheaded by recent launches from Huda Beauty, Summer Fridays, Covergirl and NYX, all of which promise the precision of a classic eyeliner and the staying power of a stain. This is a helpful benefit for those eager to secure a lip combo that lasts longer than it takes to finish a latte or happy hour.
However, according to professional makeup artist Kirin Bhatty, longevity is more than just marketing hype. Lip glosses do last longer than many traditional eyeliners, which is why she uses them regularly in her daily routine. “The beauty of these products is that they are an impactful eyeliner that also doubles as a full lip stain without feeling drying or tight,” Barty tells us Fashion.
fashion magazine Favorite lip gloss liner
Precise application is also part of the appeal. Unlike peel-and-erase formulas, you simply sketch on top, just like with a traditional pencil. “Lip gloss gives you a level of control,” explain Summer Fridays co-founders Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Gores Ireland. “The marker allows you to apply it with purpose and precision. The pigment sinks in, so by six or seven you’re left with beautiful, long-lasting color. It’s perfect whether you want to apply your lips in the morning and not have to think about it, or you’re eating and drinking and need it to last throughout the night, or you just feel more confident with a little color.”
Still, despite a slew of products, lip gloss remains surprisingly divisive among consumers. Case in point: here Fashion Headquarters. While I’ve fully incorporated them into my daily routine—learning a few usage tips along the way to prevent them from looking like actual marks when drawn—Beauty Shopping Editor Kiana Murden remains skeptical, though open to persuasion. This hesitation is understandable. These formulas have two notable quirks: You have to blend them quickly before they dry out, or you run the risk of contouring. Many people also recommend storing pens upside down to prevent the felt tip from drying out.
Even the biggest lipstick skeptics might consider themselves converted in Kulfi’s latest launch—the indie brand is pioneering a 2.0 version of lipstick eyeliner that replaces the nib and precious storage space. Instead, it may look like any creamy retractable liner, but it’s actually the first of its kind. “[With improper blending] “Markers can sometimes look patchy, and traditional stains can feel drying over time,” says Kufli founder Priyanka Ganjoo, highlighting why her brand is determined to innovate with creamy formulas. “It glides on without tugging, giving you time to define or blend before it sets. Then, when it wears off, it leaves a soft stain that lasts for hours.”







