Lip Care

What does lip gloss do?

With just one swipe, lip gloss adds shine, colour and comfort to your lips. Many formulas are made with hydrating and moisturising blends, so your lips feel soft and smooth as you wear them. Unlike matte lipstick or a simple lip balm, gloss gives your lips a fuller look with a fresh finish that catches the light.

To suit your style, you can go for a soft glow or a bold gloss. That noticeable high-shine and glossy sheen make it a favourite for everyday wear and nights out. You can wear it alone for a clean, glossy makeup look or layer it over lipstick when you want more colour and a more defined pout.

What makes lip gloss plumping?

When you feel a tingling sensation after applying gloss, you’re likely using a plumping lip gloss. The tingling comes from ingredients that bring more blood flow to the surface of your lips, making them look fuller for a short time.

Other glosses rely on ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides. These pull in water and hold it in the lips, leaving them smooth, cushioned and naturally plumper. Because the effect comes from hydration, it lasts longer and feels more comfortable than glosses that only rely on tingling.

How to apply lip gloss correctly

Applying lip products doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right technique, you can make your gloss last longer and feel comfortable all day.

For the best results with your best lip gloss, follow these steps that make application easy and consistent:

1. Prep your lips: Start with clean and smooth lips. Exfoliate gently if needed so your gloss sits evenly and looks fresh.
2. Define with liner: Apply lip liner for more shape and to keep gloss in place.
3. Add a base product (optional): Apply lipstick or a lip stain first if you want more colour and depth. Gloss works beautifully as a topper, or you can wear it on its own for a fresh shine.
4. Apply in the centre: Take the applicator and place a small amount of gloss starting from the centre of your lips.
5. Press and smooth: Gently press your lips together. One swipe is enough to spread gloss evenly and give a polished finish without feeling heavy or sticky.

How to choose the right lipstick shade

The right lipstick shade brings balance to your features and boosts your overall look. For a simple option, try nudes and pinks that feel natural for everyday wear. If you want more drama, go for a deeper pigment or a bold matte colour that makes your lips stand out.

With so many lip makeup options, it helps to play with different tones. To refresh your routine, try a few trending shades and see what feels right on you. Whether you love a bold red or a soft nude, we stock Australian and international beauty brands with plenty of lipstick shades to choose from.

How to apply lipstick with lip liner

If you want lipstick that lasts and looks neat, pair it with lip liner. Liner gives your lips shape and stops colour from smudging or moving. It also makes your lipstick more long-lasting, so you get the most from your application.

To create a look that feels polished but still natural, follow these steps:

1. Start fresh: Smooth and moisturise your lips before applying liner.
2. Trace the shape: Use lip liner to outline your natural shape or adjust slightly for extra fullness.
3. Build the base: Shade in your lips with a light layer of liner to hold colour in place.
4. Add lipstick: Apply your lipstick so it glides smoothly over the liner.
5. Finish neatly: Blend the edges so your liner and lipstick work together for a defined lip look.

Can I use eyeliner as lip liner?

You can use eyeliner as a lip liner, but it’s not the best option. Eyeliner is made for your eyes, so it can feel dry on the lips. The colour may also not blend the way you want with lipstick. It won’t always give you that smooth or long-lasting lip look you’d expect from a proper lip liner.

For comfort and definition, your best option will always be a liner made for lips. Not sure which shade or finish will suit you? You can ask our experts during a consultation when you visit us in-store. You’ll also find answers to questions like this in our FAQs, giving you extra tips to help with your routine.

Does lip liner make your lips look bigger?

Yes, lip liner can make your lips look bigger. To get this effect, outline slightly above your natural lip line and focus on the Cupid’s bow to create more lift. Filling in the corners softly before adding lipstick can also help your lips look more even and full. It works best when blended with lipstick or gloss so the liner looks seamless.

To keep your lips comfortable while shaping, start with a lip treatment or a glossy lip balm for hydration. With a finishing touch of a non-sticky gloss, your lips catch more light, and the plump look feels smooth and wearable.

Should lip liner be darker than lipstick?

Most of the time, yes. Choosing a slightly darker lip liner than your lipstick helps shape your lips and creates depth. It can also make your lipstick look more polished and defined. Just avoid going too dark, as that can make the contrast look harsh instead of seamless.

We make it simple to try the technique yourself with a wide range of lipstick, lip gloss and lip liner shades. From bestsellers to limited edition options, you’ll find the perfect match for your style.

Order before your favourites are out of stock, pick up gift sets or send gift cards to friends so they can shop, too. Add items to your wishlist, complete your first order and hit checkout knowing you’re getting the best in beauty and skincare.