Lip Oils 101: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re anything like me, winters bring out two sides of your personality:
one that loves cozy sweaters, and another that constantly deals with dry, chapped lips.
And honestly, lip balms sometimes feel like they’re working… and sometimes, like, they just disappear in 10 minutes.

That’s where lip oils come in.
Lightweight, shiny, nourishing, and oh-so-luxurious—lip oils are officially the new “it” product everyone is obsessed with.
And in my latest YouTube video (Lip Oils 101), we talked all about what makes them special.
This blog is the detailed, human version of that video—with everything you need to know in one place.

What Exactly Are Lip Oils?

Imagine if a lip balm and a lip gloss had a baby.
A baby that’s nourishing like a balm but makes your lips look juicy like a gloss.

That’s a lip oil.

It’s basically a blend of nourishing oils and shine boosters that:
✔ keep your lips hydrated
✔ give a natural glossy finish
✔ feel feather-light
✔ make your lips look healthy and plump

No stickiness, no heaviness—just a clean, soft shine.

Why Is Everyone Suddenly Into Lip Oils?

Because they solve multiple problems in one swipe.

Chapped lips? Hydration.
Dull lips? Instant shine.
Want a natural, no-makeup look? Perfect.
Want a lip topper above lipstick? Even better.

And the best part? They look expensive—even when they’re not.

Lip oils also became trendy thanks to K-beauty, clean girls, and that effortless, soft-glow makeup vibe we all secretly want.

Ingredients That Actually Matter

Not all lip oils are equal (trust me, some are just shiny water).
When you’re choosing a lip oil, look for ingredients that do the work:

1. Jojoba Oil

Closest to your skin’s natural oils. Super softening.

2. Almond/Marula Oil

Great for deep nourishment, especially for people who have perpetually dry lips.

3. Hyaluronic Acid

Adds that instant “plump” look without any sting or irritation.

4. Squalane

A winter essential—seals in moisture and keeps lips supple for hours.

5. Shea or Cocoa Derivatives

Rich, protective, and amazing for flaky lips.

If your lips peel often, go for thicker, richer lip oils.
If you prefer glossy-but-light, go for thinner, more fluid ones.

How to Use Lip Oils (The Right Way)

There are three super useful ways to add lip oils into your routine (all mentioned in the video too):

1. Use It Alone

Perfect for a natural, juicy-lip moment.
Great for everyday wear or during winter when you’re tired of reapplying balms every 30 minutes.

2. As a Lip Topper

Swipe it over any matte or cream lipstick for a soft glossy finish.
It instantly makes the lips look more youthful.

3. Pre-Lip Prep Before Lipstick

Apply a thin layer, leave it for a few minutes, and then blot.
Your lipstick will glide on smoother and look less crusty.

Who Should Use Lip Oils?

Honestly? Everyone—but especially:

People with dry or dehydrated lips
Lip balm addicts who want longer hydration
Gloss lovers who hate stickiness
Minimal makeup lovers
Anyone who wants a clean, natural look

Lip oils are also amazing for work, college, and winter days when you want effortless beauty.

My Winter Tip for You

For colder months, avoid super watery lip oils.
Look for slightly thicker ones so they stay on your lips longer and protect them from dry wind.

Think of it like… a cozy blanket for your lips.

Final Thoughts: Do You Really Need a Lip Oil?

If you want hydrated, non-sticky, glossy lips…
Yes, you do. Absolutely.

Lip oils are not a gimmick—they’re genuinely helpful, easy to use, and make your lips look soft and juicy in literally one swipe.

And now that you know the science + the hype + the how-to, you can pick the perfect one for yourself.