What's in your lip gloss?
Find out about our plastic-free and vegan makeup line, infused with hydrating phytoglycogen.
The 90s fashion scene is making a comeback, and what could be better to pair with those cargo pants and bomber jackets thank a deliciously pink lip gloss? Discreetly coloured – yet wondrously glossy – the catalyst for this famous look is a must in any well-stocked makeup bag. But have you ever thought about checking the ingredients in these cosmetics? We’re here to let you in on what’s quite literally on everyone's lips.
What’s the difference between lip gloss, lipstick and lip balm?
Lip gloss is used to add lustre to the lips: Some lip glosses are transparent, while others are tinted. Unlike lipstick, which is opaque and showy, lip gloss provides a more discreet and translucent colour. Conversely, lip balm tends to be neither coloured nor glossy, as it’s designed to relieve dry or chapped lips. But although lip gloss is primarily used for aesthetic reasons, it can also contain ingredients with moisturizing properties.
Commonly used ingredients found in lip gloss
If you’ve ever spent time checking ingredients in cosmetics, you already know that the composition of lip gloss, just like other makeup products, can vary from one brand to the next. There are, however, certain types of ingredients that are found in most formulas.
Emollients
Emollients are ingredients commonly found in skin care and makeup. They act as lubricants to soften the skin and increase its suppleness. Thanks to their occlusive properties, they also prevent water loss.[1] Lanolin – a natural moisturizing wax extracted from sheep's wool – is among the most used emollients. There are also vegan emollients like grapeseed oil, jojoba oil and sunflower oil.
Thickeners
For lip gloss’ effect to last longer than five minutes, its formula must contain ingredients with thickening properties, notably polybutene[2] and polyisobutene.[3] These two synthetic substances are not considered to be of concern by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Other brands, meanwhile, might rely on naturally sourced and vegan-friendly ingredients like C10-18 triglycerides. These fatty acids have thickening and emollient qualities.
What makes lip gloss sticky?
Polybutene and polyisobutene are renowned for their ability to increase a formula’s viscosity, which is what gives lip gloss its lustrous texture. But… this can sometimes also result in stickiness. If that’s a feeling you don’t like, then make sure the lip gloss you opt for also includes viscosity controllers like candelilla wax. Another option is using a lip gloss with a texture similar to lip balm.
Cosmetic dyes
Along with providing a glossy look, most glosses also colour the lips which means they contain cosmetic dyes like mica, of mineral or synthetic origin, as well as iron oxides, which are a large group of mineral-origin dyes capable of producing a variety of colours, from red to yellow and even black.
True or false? Lip gloss is made from whale sperm.
False. However, in the past, some lip glosses were formulated with spermaceti (a fat extracted from a sperm whale’s brain). It’s safe to say that the name of the substance and the name of the whale may have caused some understandable confusion... To learn about ingredients to avoid in your makeup products, check out this article.
Safe lip gloss ingredients
Good news! The emollient, thickener and colouring ingredients mentioned above are not cause for concern, according to the EWG’s experts. However, for added peace of mind, you can opt for lip glosses made with naturally sourced and EWG VERIFIED™ ingredients. The EWG’s seal of approval indicates the product does not contain any substances of concern to human health.
Better still, go with a lip gloss that includes a selection of hydrating ingredients: This will allow you to enhance your smile while simultaneously taking care of it. Recommended moisturizing and nourishing ingredients include castor oil, coconut oil, avocado oil and phytoglycogen, which is a rising star in the beauty industry. Plant-derived, phytoglycogen is known for its ability to reduce signs of aging and provide long-lasting hydration. The benefits of phytoglycogen-based makeup can be found right here.
All lip glosses in ATTITUDE’s Oceanly™ line are composed of 99.9% naturally derived ingredients and are EWG VERIFIED™. Their formula includes: phytoglycogen; a vegan collagen substitute to increase lips’ firmness; and algae extracts to restore suppleness and softness.
What ingredients are vegan for lip gloss?
Phytoglycogen, vegan collagen substitute and algae extracts are all vegan ingredients, which are also the ingredients found in Oceanly™ lip glosses! Take a look at this glossary if you’re interested in checking ingredients in cosmetics.
Different types of lip glosses and their various uses
While most come in a liquid format, lip glosses are also available in a stick format with a texture akin to a balm. While the liquid format is ideal for creating a “wet look,” the balm format stands out for its ability to provide a subtle shine without that sticky feeling. Such is the case with Oceanly™ lip glosses. You can finally say goodbye to hair that sticks to your lips at the slightest gust of wind!
These solid lip glosses can be used to create different looks like the sun-kissed look, the glowy look or the “no makeup” makeup look. Pro tip: You can even use your Oceanly™ lip gloss to brighten your cheeks and eyelids!
Sources:
[1] https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/reference/functions
[2] https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/722382-POLYBUTENE/
[3] https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/705061-POLYISOBUTENE/