Beauty trends extend to all areas of makeup, and lip products have recently taken center stage. It’s visible in what makeup artists are doing, what we see celebrities and influencers wearing, and in what beauty brands are launching. One trend that will ramp up through the second half of 2026 is the tinted lip gloss.
With that in mind, it’s the ideal time to answer key questions, such as what is tinted lip gloss and how to tell the difference between lip gloss and lip tint. As consumer interest continues to grow, beauty brands will be working on tinted lip gloss product development, but what’s driving the trend and what are consumers expecting from these formulas?
Current Trends: Tints, Glosses and Oils
Three lip products are set to trend in 2026. It’s not that consumers have ditched lipsticks; it’s just that they’re exploring different products to achieve a wider range of finishes, textures, and levels of color payoff. They are lip oils, lip tints, and lip glosses. The popularity of lip tints is easily seen in the estimated compound annual growth rate of 5.1% up to 2034.
The difference between lip gloss and lip tint comes down to more than just finish and texture. Lip tints are designed to add a lightweight layer of color to the lips and typically provide longer-lasting color compared to glosses. A liquid tinted lip gloss combines the shine of a gloss with the color payoff of a tint, offering consumers a versatile product that delivers both color and a glossy finish in one step.
Finishes and Textures
Lip oils and glosses are desirable right now because of the finishes and textures they provide. The latest trends are for a high-shine finish rather than matte lips. Tints are on-trend too, as they give more of a blurred and soft finish compared to many liquid lipsticks. A tinted lip gloss delivers a combination of sheer colour and shine.
Color and Application
While the trend is to choose shades that complement individual undertones, some colors are gaining more attention. Right now, berry colors and brown-toned shades are particularly popular for their versatility and ability to suit a variety of occasions. The right application method matters, too. A softly sculpted look, as seen in the halo lip, is what’s trending.
What Lip Trends Say About the Beauty Market
Instead of asking what is tinted lip gloss, the more important question is what it says about current beauty trends. Lip trends are key to interpreting the bigger picture for beauty landscape, helping brands understand evolving consumer preferences and expectations.
Color
Whether it’s a tint or a tinted lip gloss, it’s clear that lips, and makeup in general, are getting more colorful. This shift makes sense from an aesthetic perspective, as lip color can influence the overall balance and definition of the face. In fact, research suggests that the contrast between lips and the skin can influence perceptions of attractiveness.
Comfort
Consumers are looking for long-wear color, like tints, and products that feel comfortable on the lips. It’s no surprise then that cushiony and moisturizing formulas are popular, such as alip oil or a liquid tinted lip gloss. That’s part of the bigger trend toward more breathable makeup.
Hybrid Lip Formulas
Makeup is increasingly incorporating skincare-inspired benefits, and lip products are no exception. SPF and lip care features are priorities for today’s consumers.
