Lip gloss is a cosmetic product primarily used by women in order to impart a shiny, glossy effect to their lips. Lip gloss also imparts a hint of colour but it is generally not used as a lipstick because the amount of colour that it dispenses is nominal and not enough to dye the lip adequately. Lip gloss is sometimes confused with a lip balm which has medicinal properties whereas a lip gloss has only cosmetic uses.
A lip gloss can be used by itself or as a coating on top of a lipstick. A lip gloss is available in different degree of transparencies. For example, a lip gloss can be completely transparent providing only a shiny layer on the lips. It can also be translucent providing some shine along with a tint of colour. Alternatively, the lip gloss can be opaque, in which case, it provides a deeper shade of colour. Opaque lip gloss is available in different types. For example, an opaque lip gloss can add glitter to the lips. Opaque lip gloss can also be metallic or frosted.
All these types of lip gloss can be flavoured with peach, strawberry, raspberry, cocoa and other flavours. Lip glosses can also feature moisturizers which keep the lip soft and prevent dryness or chapping of the lip. Lip glosses may also feature sunscreens to prevent sun burns on the lips.
Lip glosses are available in semi solid or liquid form. It can be applied with the tip of the finger, with a lip brush or with a wand. The wand applicator comes with a round or sloping shape at the end. The sloping shaped wands are known as a “deerfoot applicator”.
Almost all types of lip gloss contain oil extracted from coconuts, olive or almonds, and even Vaseline. Aloe Vera or cocoa butter might also be added for providing some moisturising properties. Beeswax, lemon drops and a selection of essential oils are also used. The first lip gloss was Max Factor’s X-Rated commercially made available in the early 1930s. Lillian Gish was one of the first models used to advertise lip gloss which contained sunscreen. The first flavoured lip gloss was called Lip Smackers and was made in 1973.
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