The Slow Fade of the Matte Empire
Let’s be honest: the last decade belonged to matte lipstick. Driven by the rise of Instagram makeup tutorials and celebrity brands like Kylie Cosmetics, the ultra-pigmented, transfer-proof liquid matte lip became the ultimate power move. It was bold,
precise, and stayed put for hours. But its reign came at a cost. Many formulas were notoriously drying, settling into fine lines and requiring meticulous application. After years of prioritising longevity over comfort, a collective fatigue set in. The beauty world was ready for a change—a shift away from high-maintenance perfection towards something more effortless, comfortable, and forgiving.
A Wave of '90s and Y2K Nostalgia
Fashion and beauty are cyclical, and the current obsession with all things '90s and Y2K is the primary driver behind gloss's triumphant return. Think back to the icons of that era: Kareena Kapoor in ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham...’, Preity Zinta's fresh-faced looks, or Jennifer Lopez's signature nude glossy lip. Gloss was the go-to. It symbolised a fun, youthful, and slightly rebellious energy that feels fresh again today. Gen Z, discovering these trends for the first time, has embraced the aesthetic on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This isn't just about reviving a product; it's about reviving a whole vibe—one that’s less about sharp edges and more about a soft, dewy glow.
Bollywood Gives Its Glossy Approval
In India, nothing cements a trend like a nod from Bollywood. And our favourite stars have fully embraced the shine. Alia Bhatt, a champion of the 'less-is-more' aesthetic, frequently sports a natural, glossy pout, most notably for her minimalist wedding look. Deepika Padukone has been seen on international red carpets pairing dramatic eye makeup with a high-shine nude lip, proving that gloss can be just as sophisticated as matte. Janhvi Kapoor and Suhana Khan are also regularly seen with juicy, reflective lips that complete their Gen Z-coded looks. Their influence sends a clear message: the modern way to look polished is with a healthy, hydrated sheen.
The 'Skincare-ification' of Makeup
Today’s lip gloss is not the sticky, hair-magnet formula you might remember from your school days. The new generation of lip products is smarter. This trend coincides with the ‘skinimalism’ movement, where the line between skincare and makeup blurs. Modern glosses, lip oils, and tinted balms are packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and nourishing plant oils. They don’t just add shine; they actively treat and moisturise the lips. The goal is no longer to just colour the lips, but to make them look and feel plump, healthy, and cared for. A glossy finish is now an indicator of health and hydration, which feels far more modern than a dehydrated, matte look.
How to Master the Modern Glossy Lip
Ready to join the glossy revolution? It’s easier than you think. For a subtle, everyday look, choose a tinted lip oil or a sheer gloss and apply it to the centre of your lips, blending outwards. This gives the illusion of a fuller pout without feeling heavy. For more impact, start by lining your lips with a nude or matching lip liner to create definition and prevent bleeding. You can then apply a clear or coloured gloss over your favourite lipstick to transform its finish. The key is finding a non-sticky formula that feels comfortable. Whether you prefer a crystal-clear ‘glass lip’ or a subtly shimmering finish, there's a gloss out there that’s perfect for you.
