Single

Lip Oils: Yay or Nay?

Posted by Pardeep Singh on 03-06-2026

Fashion Tips

Lykkers, I used to think lip oils were just another beauty trend that would disappear after a few months. But after trying quite a few of them, I can see why they've become so popular.

They're lighter than a gloss, more comfortable than some lip products, and give that effortless juicy-lips look that I've been loving lately.

Not every lip oil is a winner though, and some definitely stand out more than others. Here are a few I've tried that don't always get as much attention as the viral ones.

1. Haus Labs Lip Oil ($24)

This lip oil surprised me. It's a pH-adjusting formula, so the tint is supposed to look unique on everyone. On me, it usually turns into a soft pink shade that's really easy to wear day-to-day. The texture sits right in the middle—not too thick, not too thin, and thankfully not sticky.

I enjoy using it, but if I'm being honest, it's not the product I automatically reach for when I'm doing my makeup. Still, it's a solid option when I want a subtle tint with a comfortable finish.

2. r.e.m. beauty Lip Oil ($16)

Out of the three, this might be the one I use most often. The formula feels thinner than many other lip oils, which makes it incredibly lightweight on the lips. What really makes it stand out for me is the applicator. It has a cooling metal ball that feels so refreshing during application. Because the formula is lighter, it doesn't last as long as thicker lip oils, but I don't mind reapplying because the experience is actually enjoyable.

3. Kosas Lip Oil ($22)

This one feels like a lip oil and lip gloss had a baby. The finish is shinier than most oils I've tried, which gives the lips a fuller-looking effect. It's marketed as a plumping product too, but personally, I don't notice much of a plumping difference. What I do notice is how pretty the shades are.

The color selection is probably my favorite thing about this formula. If you like glossy lips but don't want the heaviness of a traditional gloss, this is a nice middle ground.

I genuinely like all three of these, but if I had to pick a favorite, I'd probably give the edge to the r.e.m. beauty Lip Oil. The lightweight formula and cooling applicator make me reach for it more than the others. No matter how many new launches I try, I always find myself comparing everything back to that one.