9 Best Clear Lip Glosses Of 2024, Approved By A Permanent Makeup Artist

Add a few swipes of smudge-free sheen to your lips and keep them soft and supple all day.

Reviewed by Alysha Tucker, Permanent Makeup Artist Alysha Tucker Alysha TuckerPermanent Makeup Artist insta_icon
Written by Srijani Roy Chowdhury, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijani Roy Chowdhury MA (Journalism & Mass Communication), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Edited by Rajeshwari Das, MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Rajeshwari Das MA (Journalism & Mass Communication) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Srijita De, MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Srijita De MA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Last Updated on
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Clear lip glosses were extremely popular during the 90s and have recently made a comeback. The best clear lip gloss is a super cool budget-friendly option to make your pout luscious. Even celebs like Kendall Jenner, JLo, and other such artists are bringing back the practice of applying clear lip gloss over their lipsticks to get that natural shine and glossy finish. It looks luxurious, feels smooth and cool, and also protects your lips from getting chapped, dry, or cracked.

However, clear lip glosses have developed with the latest techniques, and the expertly crafted formulations are no longer chunky, runny, or too slimy. They stay on the lips without smudging and stay put all day long. These lip glosses can be found in your nearby drugstore. Scroll down to check out the 9 best clear lipgloss you can buy online.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best In Budget:Broadway Vita-Lip Clear Lip Gloss SetPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Non-Sticky:Revlon Super Lustrous The Gloss – Crystal ClearPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Scented Formula:L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss – ClearPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Unscented:MAX Makeup Cherimoya Lip Polish Clear Gloss – OriginalPrice on Amazon
Best For Chapped Lips:Kopari Lip Glossy- ClearPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Glossy Finish:e.l.f. Lip Lacquer – ClearPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Hydrating Formula:Nicka K Lip GelPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Daily Use:Maybelline New York Shine Shot Lip Topcoat – Clear VinylPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Non-Sticky:Lime Crime Wet Cherry Lip GlossPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

What Is Clear Lip Gloss?

Lip gloss, also known as lip topcoat or lip gel, is a cosmetic product that adds a glossy finish to your lips with a hint of color. Clear lip glosses are nothing but transparent formulas that can be used to give your lips a naturally shiny appearance and accentuate your lips.

How To Get Lip Gloss To Stay On All Day

Ask any lip gloss connoisseur, and they will tell you applying lip gloss on your lips won’t even take you a minute. Just take the right amount, swipe it, and you are good to go. But getting your lip gloss to stay on for longer may not be that easy. Yes, using the right formula is extremely important, but there are a few other points you need to consider. Read on to find how to make clear lip gloss stay on all day or for longer than usual.

  • Exfoliate your lips at least twice a day; the easiest way to do it is with a toothbrush. This helps remove dead skin from the surface of your lips. Additionally, it would help if you also moisturize your lips with a lip balm every day. Following this routine, as suggested, will give you smooth and supple lips.
  • Matte lipsticks make lip glosses stay on for long.
  • Line your lips with a lip liner with the shade that matches your natural lip color. You could also fill your lips with the liner. This creates a smooth surface for the lip gloss to adhere to.
  • You could also use a foundation or a lip primer as a base to increase its staying power.
  • Whether you like it or not, sticky formulas tend to last longer. But most of us don’t like the look and feel of it. So, after applying lip gloss, run an ice cube on your lips to reduce the stickiness.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the list of the best clear lip glosses that give you the perfect pout.

9 Best Clear Lip Glosses That Suit Everyone’s Budget – 2024

1. Best In Budget:Broadway Vita-Lip Clear Lip Gloss Set

Not one or two, but you get 3 clear lip glosses in this set! Plus, this trio features different active ingredients that have distinct properties. With these in your makeup kit, it’s easy to alternate between three lip glosses based on your preference. These tube lip glosses have moisturizing benefits that make your lips soft and healthy-looking. And one swipe of any of these thick clear glosses will provide high-impact shine without any stickiness. While the mint oil gloss helps heal cracked lips, the lip gloss infused with rosehip oil reduces the appearance of fine lines on the lips. And if you’re looking for a gloss to keep your lips hydrated, then coconut oil is the best cheap lip gloss to go for. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video and learn about a reviewer’s experience with the lip product.

Color: Cream White | Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.7 x 0.7 x 4.3 inches | Weight: 2.08 Ounces

Pros

  • Moisturizes and hydrates lips
  • Adds shine
  • Mint oil lip gloss offers a cooling effect
  • Rosehip oil gloss is enriched with vitamin A
  • Coconut oil locks in moisture
  • Pleasant-scented lip gloss
  • Long-lasting
  • Thick consistency

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received 15,178 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.

2. Best Non-Sticky:Revlon Super Lustrous The Gloss – Crystal Clear

Revlon Super Lustrous The Gloss - Crystal Clear

As the name suggests, this crystal clear lip gloss will give you super lustrous lips instantly. Non-sticky and iridescent finish, with this lip gloss, you can have it all. This drugstore clear lip gloss, formulated with agave, moringa oil, and cupuacu butter, is high on moisture and will help keep your lips hydrated. Who needs a lip balm, when you have a lip gloss that does it all! It also features an oversized applicator with a reservoir tip that adds a generous layer of gloss in a single swipe.Here’s a pro tip: you could layer this transparent lip gloss over your favorite lipstick for a statement-making intense glow. If you wish to learn more about the product and know about a tester’s experience with it, check out this unbiased YouTube video.

Skin Type: AllColor: Crystal Clear | Product Dimensions: 4 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches | Weight: 1.09 Ounces.

Pros

  • Lightweight and non-sticky formula
  • Delivers a dewy glow
  • Keeps lips moisturized
  • Makes lips look plumper
  • Comes with an oversized applicator
  • Rich in antioxidants

Cons

  • May not be long-lasting

My Personal Experience

"This gloss is vibrant and looks amazing. It has a very long-lasting color and is completely non-sticky. It has a very smooth texture and applies with a glossy sheen."


protip_icon Pro Tip

Instead of putting lip gloss directly over a lipstick shade, apply the gloss towards the middle of your bottom lip, then make sure to rub your lips together. This method adds the right amount of shine and keeps the product from getting too sticky.

3. Best Scented Formula:L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss – Clear

L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss - Clear

L.A. Colors High Shine clear lip gloss smells as great as it looks! It has a light vanilla scent that smells so delicious that you will never want to remove it. Not only does this shimmer lip gloss offer hydrating and moisturizing benefits (thanks to ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E) but it also delivers high shine and non-sticky finish. Swap your regular balm with this drugstore lip gloss that will give you softer and luscious lips, while keeping your lips hydrated. Reviewers have suggested using it over your regular lipstick to create stunning celebrity-inspired lip looks.

Skin Type: AllColor: Clear | Product Dimensions: 0.75 x 0.75 x 4.75 inches | Weight: 0.16 Ounces

Pros

  • Formulated with shea butter and vitamin E
  • Moisturizes and prevents lips from drying
  • Keeps lips soft
  • High-shine lip gloss with non-sticky finish
  • Vanilla-scented lip gloss

Cons

  • May not work well as a topcoat
  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Broadway Vita-Lip Clear Lip Gloss Set
Best In Budget
Revlon Super Lustrous The Gloss - Crystal Clear
Best Non-Sticky
L.A. Colors High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss - Clear
Best Scented Formula
Color Cream White--
Skin Type Dry AllColor AllColor
Dimensions 2.7 x 0.7 x 4.3 inches 4 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches 0.75 x 0.75 x 4.75 inches
Weight 2.08 Ounces 1.09 Ounces. 0.16 Ounces
Rating
Reviews15,17813,27510,774
Price$3.99$7.34$1.98

4. Best Unscented:MAX Makeup Cherimoya Lip Polish Clear Gloss – Original

MAX Makeup Cherimoya Lip Polish Clear Gloss - Original

If you are on the hunt for the best clear lip gloss that delivers the perfect shine and also moisturizes your lips, consider this one by MAX Makeup. Enriched with vitamin E, this lip gloss will give you fuller-looking and beautiful lips. This odorless gloss comes enclosed in a tube for ease of application and has a thick consistency, which means a little goes a long way.  According to online reviews, dab this transparent lip gloss to make your favorite lipstick shinier and your pout glossier. It is the best natural looking lip gloss

Alysha Tucker, a permanent makeup artist, states, “You may notice your foundation or lip liners bleed into the clear gloss applicator and change its color. Therefore, invest in disposable lip wands, and use those to apply clear glosses.”

Skin Type: AllColor: 2 Piece | Product Dimensions: 4.67 x 1.15 x 0.8 inches | Weight: 0.35 Ounces

Pros

  • Two lip glosses in a pack
  • Moisturizing formula
  • Delivers a shiny finish
  • Easy to apply
  • Fruit-flavored
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • Might be a tad bit sticky

My Personal Experience

"This lip gloss is neither too thick or too sticky. It offers a comfortable wear and subtle shine. It gives my lips a glossy finish that lasts for a good amount of time."


5. Best For Chapped Lips:Kopari Lip Glossy- Clear

Kopari Lip Glossy- Clear

Formulated with ultra-hydrating ingredients such as 100% pure organic coconut oil and shea butter, Kopari Lip Glossy might be the solution to all your lip problems. It takes care of your dry or chapped lips by locking in moisture and making your lips smooth and supple. It also contains ingredients like vitamin E and antioxidants that keep your lips moisturized. It’s long-lasting, non-sticky, delivers a sheer glossy sheen, and comes in a squeezable tube that allows you to control the amount of product you want to apply. It is the best Lip Gloss Clear that offers precise application.

Skin Type: SensitiveColor: Clear

Pros

  • Non-sticky and long-wearing lip gloss
  • Contains sustainably sourced organic coconut oil
  • Hydrating and nourishing formula
  • Coconut-scented lip gloss
  • Delivers the perfect amount of shine
  • Silicone, sulfate, and paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free and vegan

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin
protip_icon Pro Tip

Lightly pat a small amount of your usual foundation or concealer on top of your lips and swipe some gloss on it. This will help keep the lip gloss long-lasting.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 556 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.

6. Best Glossy Finish:e.l.f. Lip Lacquer – Clear

e.l.f. Lip Lacquer - Clear

Coat your bare lips with this Lip Lacquer from the celebrity-endorsed brand e.l.f. for the shiniest pout that lasts long and will make your lips look the best, be it day or night. This lip treatment comes with a flexible applicator wand that picks the right amount of formula and glides effortlessly onto your lips to provide an ultra-glossy finish without making it look tacky. In addition to that, this clear liquid lacquer is enriched with vitamin E that will moisturize your lips with every application and make it look plump.

Skin Type: NormalColor: Clear

Pros

  • Easy-to-use applicator
  • Infused with vitamin E
  • Has moisturizing and extreme plumping benefits
  • Offers a non-sticky, glossy finish
  • 100% vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Free from phthalates, parabens, and other chemicals

Cons

  • The consistency of the gloss may be too thick for some
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 25,177 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

7. Best Hydrating Formula:Nicka K Lip Gel

Nicka K Lip Gel

Not a fan of lip glosses that leave a tinted sheen on your lips? Then this clear lip gel by Nicka K with a hydrating formula is the perfect lip gloss for you! It adds a pop to your lips by providing a spectacular mirror-like, high-shine finish. This clear sparkly lip gloss is lightweight and comes in an easy-squeeze tube that helps you create makeup artist-like strokes on your lips and imparts the right amount of dewy glow. With the addition of vitamin E as one of the key ingredients, this high-shine lip gloss keeps your lips soft and nourished, just the way you want.

Skin Type: AllColor: Clear | Product Dimensions: 1.2 x 1.2 x 3.8 inches | Weight: 0.64 Ounces

Pros

  • Super hydrating formula
  • Non-sticky and mirror-like finish
  • Gives you soft and supple lips
  • Glides smoothly
  • Lightweight and easy to use

Cons

  • May be difficult to take off

My Personal Experience

"This lip gloss is thick and offers excellent hydration to the lips. The formula is easy to build and doesn’t feather. The tube is of generous size and elegant design."


8. Best For Daily Use:Maybelline New York Shine Shot Lip Topcoat – Clear Vinyl

Maybelline New York Shine Shot Lip Topcoat - Clear Vinyl

A transparent lip gloss such as Maybelline New York Shine Shot Lip Topcoat deserves a place in your everyday makeup kit. Using this clear gloss as a topcoat is a great way of amplifying the intensity of your lipstick. If you are anything like us, you are sure to love the reflective, subtle shine and the clear, glassy texture this gloss provides. One of the best drugstore clear lip glosses, it has an impressive staying power and glides on easily. The thick texture of the formula offers great coverage in a single swipe. Use it over your matte lipsticks to get a glossy, statement-making pout.

Skin Type: AllColor: Clear Vinyl | Product Dimensions: 0.75 x 1.18 x 4.02 inches | Weight: 0.69 Ounces

Pros

  • Primarily used as a topcoat
  • Highly-reflective shine
  • Long-wearing lip gloss
  • Elevates your lip look
  • Smooth, glossy lip gel
  • Glass-like finish

Cons

  • Formula may be a little sticky
protip_icon Pro Tip

Wear matte lipstick underneath your lip gloss. This will provide your gloss something to stick onto and allow it to stay on your lips longer while offering a fuller look.

9. Best Non-Sticky:Lime Crime Wet Cherry Lip Gloss

Lime Crime Wet Cherry Lip Gloss

For days when you feel like keeping your makeup look simple, a clear gloss is an excellent choice. Lime Crime Wet Cherry Lip Gloss is one of the best clear lip glosses available. It is a must-try if you are looking for a gloss that is lightweight and looks divine on your lips. This cherry-scented gloss imparts an ultra-glossy sheen that stays put for hours, while the oversized doe-foot applicator goes on smoothly and provides maximum coverage in a few coats. Plus, the formula is non-sticky, so you won’t have to worry about hair strands getting stuck on your lips.

Skin Type: All

Pros

  • Comfortable to wear
  • Scented lip gloss
  • Does not bleed, stain, or crease
  • Non-sticky and smooth texture
  • Large applicator
  • Cruelty-free and vegan

Cons

  • The fragrance may be too strong for some

My Personal Experience

"This lip gloss is perfect for daily wear. The formula is long-lasting and very moisturizing. It is not sticky or tacky at all. I love the cherry scent of it."


*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Maintaining moisturized and soft lips is essential. Clear lip glosses are a terrific way to keep your lips looking shiny without giving them additional color pay off. Before purchasing the best clear lip gloss, take into account the following.

Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Clear Lip Glosses

  • Ingredients: Always choose clear lip glosses with safer ingredients to safeguard your lips and skin. Use lip glosses, for instance, that have vitamin E, mint, or coconut oils, and other moisturizing components.

Lip glosses provide dry, chapped lips with instant moisturizing. Choose lip gloss which has a long-lasting effect. Look for a lip gloss that contains mango, shea butter, and minerals to provide long-lasting moisture to your lips.

Avoid clear lip glosses containing alcohol, glycol, preservative, sulfates, parabens, and synthetic additives. Always opt for the ones with formulas that are lead- and cruelty-free.

  • Texture: Sticky clear lip glosses can feel tense when worn. They might stick to the lips and are uncomfortable when speaking. Instead, look for non-sticky, lightweight lip glosses. They leave no unwanted residue and are simple to remove when needed. Ensure the lip gloss you buy is non-greasy, user-friendly, and comfortable to wear even for extended periods.
  • Skin-Friendly: Some lip glosses might result in rashes, pimples, and other skin irritation. Choose lip glosses that are not overly strong or harsh. Pick lip glosses with a soft consistency and minimal fragrance. If you are tested for gluten allergies, look for the ones that are gluten-free. Try the product on a tiny patch of skin to prevent skin irritation.
  • Flavor: Consistently using lip gloss with a pleasant scent makes you feel wonderful. Pick flavored lip glosses with flavors like tangerine, cherry, and vanilla, as you often taste them.
  • Finish: Different sorts of formulae that are available offer unique finishes. Clear liquid lip glosses have a heavier texture and a sparkly appearance. If you select creamy lip glosses, they have a subtle color finish and are incredibly silky and smooth. You can choose the best one that soothes your skin and complements your makeup.

In addition to this, you may also check out various reviews of the product on e-commerce websites. This will help you make an informed decision.

Infographic: Mistakes To Avoid While Using Clear Lip Gloss

Lip glosses are extremely versatile. You can wear them alone on days when you want a no-makeup makeup look, or pair them with your favorite lipstick for a full-glam look. Clear lip glosses, as easy as they may appear, can be tricky to work with. If you want to get the most out of your lip gloss, you should be aware of some common mistakes. Keep your clear lip gloss game on point by reading the infographic below to learn how to avoid common clear lip gloss pitfalls.

Mistakes To Avoid While Using Clear Lip Gloss (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Lip glosses may have emerged as a 90s trend, but they are still going strong. These super cool lip products add natural shine, smooth texture, and glossy finish to your lips. High-shine clear lip glosses smoothly glide on your lips and keep them soft and give you fuller-looking lips. They contain ingredients like vitamin C and antioxidants that protect your lips from getting dry and flaky. If versatility of use is what you are looking for, add the Broadway Vita-Lip Clear Lip Gloss Set to your enhanced beauty routine. If you prefer a transparent gloss with a non-sticky formula, try the Revlon Super Lustrous The Gloss – Crystal Clear. Another great pick is the Lime Crime Wet Cherry Lip Gloss which is known for providing an ultra-glossy sheen. Some of these formulae are also cruelty-free, long-lasting, and easy to apply. However, some lip glosses might have a thick consistency and not be suitable for all skin types. So, read the reviews well before you purchase one. Also, do not forget to perform a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin and are using it for the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is clear lip gloss worth it?

Yes, clear lip gloss is the best way to enhance natural beauty without using additional products.

How do you apply lip gloss perfectly?

Begin by applying lip gloss to the center of the lips and dragging the applicator along the size of the lips. Apply the gloss no higher than the lip line. Blot the excess lip gloss with tissue paper.

Do you put lip gloss over lipstick?

Yes, you can use lip gloss over lipstick to get a luminous finish and make it look more beautiful.

How often should you apply lip gloss?

Apply lipgloss 2-4 times per day, or as desired.

Can you wear lip gloss without makeup?

Yes, you can wear lip gloss without makeup to add a pop of color to your face.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Srijani Roy Chowdhury, is a makeup aficionado who loves experimenting and recommending makeup items to users. She has compiled this list of the best clear lip glosses considering their benefits. These products offer smooth lips with a glossy finish and prevent chapped lips. Moreover, these lip glosses are endorsed by numerous users through their reviews.

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Alysha Tucker
Alysha TuckerPermanent Makeup Artist
Alysha Tucker is a certified permanent makeup artist, specializing in brows and lips. She is also the owner of Blush Baby Los Angeles. After graduating in 2018 from Elite Permanent Makeup in Santa Monica, CA, Alysha, has worked alongside some of California's best permanent makeup artists and tattoo artists, and completed several rigorous apprenticeships.

Read full bio of Alysha Tucker
Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor
Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.

Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Rajeshwari Das
Rajeshwari DasAssociate Commerce Editor
Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.

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Srijita De
Srijita DeCommerce Writer
Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.

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