Discover the Best Lip Oils for Hydration and Shine in 2025

The beauty industry is witnessing a significant shift towards lip oils, a product that combines hydration with a high-shine finish. According to Dr. Shaimaa Jamshidi, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and Co-founder of Montrose London, lip fillers continue to be one of the most requested treatments after Botox. She notes that while aesthetic trends evolve, the desire for “full, hydrated, and healthy-looking lips” remains a consistent beauty ideal.

Lip oils have surged in popularity recently, fueled in part by social media platforms like TikTok. These oils are crafted with nutrient-rich ingredients that provide hydration while offering a hint of color. Unlike traditional lip balms or glosses, lip oils straddle the line between skincare and cosmetics, making them a versatile addition to any makeup routine.

Understanding the Appeal of Lip Oils

Developed with an oil base, lip oils have replaced classic balms and glosses by delivering nourishing actives that protect and strengthen the skin barrier. They are formulated with beneficial ingredients such as sheabutter, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, which contribute to a moisturising effect and, in some cases, enhance lip volume.

Dr. Jamshidi describes lip oils as “the modern hybrid between treatment and cosmetic,” offering the luminous finish of gloss alongside the restorative benefits of a serum. She emphasizes that a well-formulated lip oil can help retain moisture in the outer layer of the lip skin, improving suppleness and providing protection against environmental stressors.

These products are lightweight and absorb quickly, leaving a soft radiance without the sticky feel commonly associated with glosses. Dr. Jamshidi notes that while lip oils typically require more frequent application, their benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

Choosing the Right Lip Oil

When assessing lip oils, Dr. Jamshidi looks for formulas that align with the skin’s natural barrier. She recommends seeking out products rich in essential fatty acids, such as those containing vitamin E and C, as well as humectants like hyaluronic acid, all of which support the delicate skin of the lips.

Conversely, she advises avoiding lip oils with drying alcohols, parabens, and synthetic antioxidants like BHT and BHA. Prolonged use of these ingredients can lead to irritation or disruption of the skin’s natural barrier. Additionally, strong synthetic fragrances, phenol, or menthol may initially provide a refreshing sensation but can ultimately contribute to dryness and sensitivity.

Dr. Jamshidi contrasts lip oils with other lip products. “Lip balm is a repair product,” she explains, typically wax or butter-based, sealing in moisture and offering protection against harsh environments. It is especially effective for severely dry or chapped lips, making it ideal for use overnight or in cold, dry climates.

In contrast, lip oil combines aesthetic appeal with nourishment and hydration, featuring a lighter texture and non-sticky sheen suitable for everyday wear. On the other hand, lip gloss is focused solely on aesthetic enhancement, providing high shine without meaningful hydration, which can accentuate dryness if used without a hydrating base.

As consumers increasingly prioritize both beauty and care, lip oils are carving out a significant place in beauty routines. With their ability to deliver hydration and a glossy finish, they represent a modern approach to lip care that resonates with today’s beauty enthusiasts.