Found: A Functional Lip Gloss That Actually Hydrates Your Pout

Whether you're applying a vibrant lipstick or a pout-plumping gloss, it's easy to forget that your lips are also skin—and should be treated as such. Despite being one of the most sensitive areas on the body, they're often forgotten in standard skin care routines and instead left to fend for themselves. 

Most plumping glosses I've tried leave a sticky residue for hours on end. And even when they avoid unwanted tackiness, the long-lasting formulas are typically uncomfortable to wear. Not to mention, the burning and tingling sensation induced by many plumping products isn't actually necessary to make the lips look full. (Beauty does not need to be pain!) 

Yet somehow the Kosas oil manages to avoid all these common issues, plumping your pout to perfection sans stinging. The secret behind this formula is hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into my lip to make them appear plumper. It's a win-win; my lips look great and get long-term benefits from the extra boost of hydration.

What's more, the tint of this product is a perfect middle ground for everyday wear. It's not too pigmented, so I can swipe it over any lip color for added shine without overriding the shade. However, on the days I'm solely sporting lip balm, the gloss adds a notable tint that's just enough to level up that "no-makeup makeup" look. 

As previously mentioned, the hyaluronic acid component of this formula is beneficial for both cosmetic purposes and skin health. The HA helps to keep my lips ultra-hydrated and plump (which is ideal for preventing any lipstick layered underneath from cracking or creasing). 

Botanical oils including avocado, primrose, and konjac help to cushion the lips with even more moisture and also create a gel-like barrier to the stressors in the environment. Packed with antioxidants, these additions help combat oxidative stress (one contributor to physical skin aging, lips included).