Remember when you were younger and lip gloss was the go-to for keeping lips moisturised, shiny, and glossy? Also remember when lip glosses came in different colours and flavours, with sparkles and glitter? Haha, almost every woman remembers a time in her childhood when lip gloss was a staple.

The good news is that lip glosses have transcended generations. So be it decades ago or this present day, glossy, glimmering lips are very much in vogue. However, like other makeup items, we have noticed a spike in the prices of lipgloss. What used to be 100 Naira and even 50 Naira are now running into thousands of Naira. We’re also having high-end lipglosses like Rhode, Summer Fridays, and Fenty that cost between ₦20,000-₦60,000, and many Nigerians living in Nigeria cannot afford them.

So, if you’re mindful of your budget but still want long-lasting lip glosses, you should read the recommendations of three editors in the BellaNaija Style newsroom, based on what they love and use.

Classic Lip Gloss

Photo Credit: Classicmakeupuusa.com

Whether you choose the clear or coloured version, Classic lip gloss offers a shine and glitter that truly makes the lips pop. Temi says that it feels non-sticky upon application, and the included wand applicator makes it easy to use. She also says that, “It contains many safe and hydrating ingredients like polybutene and is one of my favourite lip glosses, especially the Classic lip gloss in baby pink.”

Price range: ₦2,000 – ₦2,100

This means your lips can stay all shiny and hydrating without you breaking the bank.

Ushas Lip Gloss

Photocredit:ushas.com

If you appreciate thick and flavourful lip glosses with bright packaging and a diverse range of colours, then Ushas Lip Gloss might be perfect. Enriched with vitamins E and A and infused with numerous hydrating oils like argan, almond, and coconut, it’s notably moisturising. Ifeyinwa praises it for being glossy, soft on the lips, and long-lasting”.

Price range: ₦700 – ₦1,000

Squeeze n Shine

Besides Classic, the Squeeze n Shine lipgloss has been a personal favourite of Temi’s since secondary school. While many brands make their own versions, the Incolor by Jordana Squeeze and Shine really stands out. It’s super moisturising, thick, shiny, and long-lasting. It also has a pleasant, sweet scent and comes in a variety of colours.

The Romantic May variant of Squeeze n Shine is also moisturising, thanks to its aloe vera properties, although it may not last as long.

Price: ₦500

Vaseline “Rosy Lips” Lip Therapy

Photocredit: Amazon.com

Although technically a lip balm, Vaseline Rosy Lips provides sufficient shine and even a hint of colour, making it a wonderful lip gloss alternative. Its non-sticky formula effectively locks in moisture thanks to its petrolatum base.

For those with dry and cracked lips, it’s an essential product to carry at all times. For Temi, it feels great on the lips so it’s little wonder she enjoys using it. However, the primary drawback is that you have to use your finger to apply it to the lips due to the absence of an applicator.

Price range: ₦1,500 – ₦2,000

Absolute Lip Gloss

Photocredit: Mamatega.com

For a lip gloss that delivers both significant shine and impressive staying power, Absolute is an excellent choice. Although, it can be quite sticky and may not be as moisturising as some other options, the fact that it’s long lasting is enough for Oluwadunsin to not only fall in love with it but also recommend it. “It’s a great way to have your lips shiny for a long time. I use it often, although I have other lip glosses, and I can rest assured that I don’t have to top up for a few hours. Be careful though, that snack you’re about to eat might get stuck on your lips, haha.”

Price: ₦500

Which of these lip glosses have you tried? Remember that these are our favourite budget-friendly recommendations. If you have sensitive lips, consulting a dermatologist is always advisable.