13 best lip oils 2025, tried & tested
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If you haven’t yet added a hydrating lip oil to your beauty arsenal, now’s the time. Even as the seasons change, our lips can remain parched and in need of some extra TLC. Enter, lip oils: the perfect skincare and makeup hybrid, delivering both moisture and a glossy finish.
These versatile products have surged in popularity of late, thanks to their inclusion of skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E (and nourishing plant oils such as jojoba and coconut oil). Packaged conveniently for on-the-go application, lip oils ensure your pout remains soft, supple, and radiant throughout the day.
Even celebrity makeup artists and skin experts are jumping on the lip oil bandwagon. Sasha Keene, known for her signature ‘glowing skin with lots of blush tones and a glossy lip,’ shares her go-to picks in our list below, and adds why they've earned a permanent spot in her impressive kit.
Meanwhile, Dr Nora Jaafar, cosmetic and medical dermatologist at Rejuvenation Clinic explains that lip oils do more than just look good. She adds “they help strengthen the delicate lip barrier” – and it's thanks to all those nourishing antioxidant-rich ingredients.
To help you navigate the myriad options available, I’ve personally tested several standout products and consulted with experts to bring you the best lip oils that promise hydration, shine, and a touch of colour from Charlotte Tilbury's tingling Pillow Talk Lip Plumpgasm to the it-girl Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil.
SKIP TO FAQs: Our full lip oil reviews | What are the benefits to lip oils over gloss? | How often can you use lip oils? | What ingredients should I look for in a lip oil? | What’s the best way to apply lip oil? | Can applying too much lip oil be bad for your lips?
Meet the experts:
Name | Expertise |
Dr Nora Jaafar | Cosmetic and Medical Dermatology Doctor at Rejuvenation Clinic. |
Sasha Keene | Celebrity Makeup Artist. |
How we test:
At GLAMOUR, we don’t just go by the hype - every product is put through its paces to see if it actually delivers. When it comes to lip oils, we look for hydration, comfortable wear, a flattering finish, and ingredients that go beyond the surface.
While I haven’t tried every product in this list myself, the ones I have are reviewed with full transparency - pros, cons, and everything in-between. For the rest, I’ve tapped into trusted GLAMOUR writer reviews, expert insights, and a deep dive into the formulas themselves (because ingredients don’t lie). Only the very best are making this cut.
Ahead, shop GLAMOUR's edit of the best lip oils, tested and reviewed.
FAQs:
What are the benefits to lip oils over gloss?
Lip oils are skincare-first formulas designed to hydrate and condition lips, often with plant-based oils and active ingredients.
“Unlike traditional balms, which tend to sit on the surface, lip oils often contain nourishing ingredients that penetrate more deeply to repair and strengthen the lip barrier. Great if you’re prone to dry flaky lips or finding traditional balms are being topped up every few hours,” adds Dr Nora Jaafar, Cosmetic & Medical Dermatology Doctor at Rejuvenation Clinic.
How often can you use lip oils?
“You can use lip oils as often as needed—morning, night, and even throughout the day. I recommend applying them at night as part of your skincare routine for an overnight hydration boost,” Dr Nora adds. For the best overnight hydration lip oil, we suggest opting for the GLAMOUR-approved Charlotte Tilbury Magic Lip Oil Crystal Elixir.
What ingredients should I look for in a lip oil?
When asking our expert, Dr Nora, she said: “Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, jojoba or rosehip oil for nourishment, and vitamin E for antioxidant protection. Avoid heavily fragranced oils or those with menthol, which can be irritating over time.”
What’s the best way to apply lip oil?
It's best to apply your lip oil directly to bare lips or layer over liner or lipstick for extra shine. Most come with a doe-foot applicator for precise application.
Can applying too much lip oil be bad for your lips?
Dr Nora adds: “Generally, no - applying lip oil frequently isn’t harmful, especially if you’re using a formula with nourishing, non-irritating ingredients. Reapplying throughout the day can help maintain hydration and protect the lips from environmental stressors.
The only time it can become an issue is if your lip oil contains irritating ingredients like menthol, cinnamon, or strong fragrances—overuse in those cases can cause dryness, peeling, or sensitivity!"
Feeling inspired to upgrade your makeup routine? Check out our guides on the best mascaras, best primers and best magnetic false lashes. We can also help you pick the best moisturisers for dry skin, best hyaluronic acid serums and best laser hair removal machines.