6 Butter Gloss Shades: The Best Non-Sticky Lip Gloss?
If you grew up with the lip glosses of the early 2000s, you probably have some trust issues. We were all promised a high-shine finish but were often left with a thick, goopy formula that acted as a magnet for stray hairs on a windy day. For years, many of us swore off gloss entirely. Then, a product came along that completely changed the conversation. The NYX Butter Gloss delivered on a simple but revolutionary promise: a beautiful, glassy look without the discomfort. It set a new standard for what a butter gloss non-sticky lip gloss could be, proving that comfort and shine could finally coexist in one tube. It became a drugstore icon for a reason, and it opened the door for a new generation of luxurious, comfortable glosses.
Key Takeaways
- Modern gloss is all about comfortable shine: The best formulas deliver a beautiful, high-shine finish without any of the old-school stickiness, focusing instead on a lightweight, buttery texture that feels nourishing on the lips.
- Know your undertones to find your perfect shade: The secret to a truly flattering lip color is choosing one that complements your skin’s natural warm, cool, or neutral undertones for a look that brightens your entire complexion.
- Prep and layering create a polished, lasting look: Starting with smooth, defined lips and applying gloss over a lipstick not only creates a custom, multi-dimensional color but also significantly extends its wear time.
What Makes Butter Gloss So Different?
If you’ve ever sworn off lip gloss because of that tacky, hair-magnet feeling, you’re not alone. For years, getting a high-shine look meant putting up with a thick, sticky formula. Butter Gloss really changed the conversation by offering something different. Its popularity isn't just about the wide range of shades; it’s rooted in a texture that truly lives up to its name.
The formula managed to crack the code for a comfortable gloss experience. It delivers that beautiful, plump-looking shine we all love, but without any of the stickiness that can make traditional glosses feel like a chore to wear. It feels less like a heavy top coat and more like a nourishing treatment that just happens to look amazing. This unique combination of a buttery-soft feel and a glassy finish is what sets it apart and has made it a staple in so many makeup bags.
The Secret to a Non-Sticky Shine
The biggest draw of Butter Gloss is right in the name—it’s buttery soft and silky smooth. The formula was designed to glide on without any of that dreaded tackiness. Instead of feeling like a thick lacquer, it provides a sheer-to-medium wash of color with a perfect pop of shine that looks fresh and modern. This non-sticky quality is what makes it so wearable. You can press your lips together without them sticking, and you don’t have to worry about a gust of wind turning your hair into a sticky mess. It’s this focus on a comfortable, clean finish that makes it a standout, much like the philosophy behind our own Nude Envie lip gloss, which prioritizes a luxurious feel.
How It Feels: Butter Gloss vs. Traditional Gloss
Beyond just being non-sticky, the actual feeling on the lips is what converts so many people. Many describe the sensation as smooth as melted butter, which is a far cry from the gloppy, heavy feeling of older gloss formulas. It’s incredibly lightweight, so you almost forget you’re wearing it. Plus, it has hydrating properties that leave your lips feeling soft and moisturized, rather than dried out. This makes it a fantastic option for everyday wear. While a gloss gives a certain finish, a great lipstick collection can also provide that comfortable, hydrating feel with a different kind of color payoff. With Butter Gloss, you get the best of both worlds: the look of a gloss with the comfort of a balm.
Why Make the Switch to a Non-Sticky Gloss?
If you grew up with the goopy, tacky lip glosses of the early 2000s, you might have sworn them off for good. But gloss has come a long way. The new generation of formulas is all about delivering that high-impact shine without the sticky, heavy feeling we all used to dread. Making the switch to a non-sticky gloss isn't just about chasing a trend; it's about choosing a product that feels as good as it looks. It’s about finding a gloss that works with your lifestyle, whether you're heading into a meeting or out for a windy day. These modern formulas prioritize comfort, hydration, and a smooth finish that makes you forget you're even wearing anything on your lips.
All-Day Comfort and Wear
The biggest win for non-sticky gloss is, without a doubt, the comfort factor. Traditional glosses can feel heavy and thick, but modern formulas are designed to be lightweight and buttery smooth. They glide on effortlessly, giving your lips a beautiful, plump shine without any of the tackiness. This silky texture means you can press your lips together without that dreaded sticky feeling. Because they feel so comfortable, you’re more likely to wear them all day long. The best luxurious lip gloss feels more like a nourishing balm than a thick lacquer, making it the perfect everyday essential for a polished, effortless look.
Hydration Without the Heaviness
We all want a gloss that gives us a juicy-looking pout, but not at the expense of our lip health. Older gloss formulas often provided shine but did little to moisturize, sometimes even leaving lips feeling drier once they wore off. Non-sticky glosses are different. They are often packed with hydrating ingredients that condition your lips throughout the day. This means you get the visual appeal of a high-shine finish while also treating your lips to some much-needed moisture. It’s the ideal combination of color, shine, and care, ensuring your lips stay soft and supple long after the gloss has faded.
No More Hair-Stuck-in-Gloss Moments
Let’s be honest: one of the most frustrating things about wearing lip gloss is the wind. A sudden gust can turn your perfectly styled hair into a sticky mess plastered across your face. It’s a universal struggle, but it doesn’t have to be. Switching to a non-sticky formula completely eliminates this problem. You can enjoy a glossy finish without constantly worrying about your hair getting caught in it. This small but significant change makes wearing gloss so much more enjoyable and practical. It’s the freedom to wear your hair down on a breezy day and still rock a flawless, shiny lip without a second thought.
The Most-Loved NYX Butter Gloss Shades
With dozens of shades to choose from, the Butter Gloss line has something for every mood and occasion. From everyday nudes to bold statement colors, the sheer-to-medium coverage makes them incredibly wearable. It can be a little overwhelming to sort through all the options, so I’ve broken down some of the most popular, fan-favorite shades that everyone seems to be talking about. Whether you’re looking for a subtle shine or a pop of color, these are the shades that consistently top the charts.
The Go-To Nudes: Praline & Angel Food Cake
Every makeup bag needs a reliable nude gloss, and NYX delivers with two standout options. Praline is a deep, rich nude that has become a staple for so many makeup lovers. It gives you a beautiful color payoff without any of the stickiness you might expect from a gloss. Then there’s Angel Food Cake, a slightly softer nude that works beautifully across a wide range of skin tones. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for an easy, everyday look that feels polished and put-together.
For a Sheer Look: Sugar Glass & Eclair
Sometimes you just want a touch of shine without a lot of color. For those moments, Sugar Glass is the perfect pick. It’s a completely clear gloss that adds a gorgeous, glassy finish to your lips, making it ideal for a more understated look or for layering over your favorite lipstick. If you want just a hint of color, Eclair is a beautiful soft pink. It’s sheer enough to look natural but adds a delicate wash of color that brightens up your face. It’s also a great option for layering to add dimension to other lip products.
Making a Statement: Cinnamon Roll & Red Velvet
When you’re ready to make more of a statement, Butter Gloss has you covered there, too. Cinnamon Roll is a stunning cool-toned brown that developed such a loyal following that it was brought back by popular demand. It’s a unique shade that feels both trendy and timeless. For a truly bold look, Red Velvet is a rich, vibrant red that commands attention. It’s the perfect way to add a dramatic pop of color to your makeup routine, whether you’re heading out for the night or just want to feel a little more glamorous during the day.
How to Find Your Perfect Butter Gloss Shade
Finding the right lip gloss shade is less about chasing trends and more about understanding your skin’s natural undertones. Your undertone is the subtle hue beneath your skin's surface, and it’s the secret to why some colors make you glow while others fall flat. Once you know if your skin leans warm, cool, or neutral, picking a flattering shade becomes second nature. It’s the difference between a gloss that just sits on your lips and one that truly enhances your entire look.
Not sure about your undertone? A quick way to check is to look at the veins on the inside of your wrist. If they appear greenish, you likely have warm undertones. If they look blue or purple, you probably have cool undertones. If you can’t quite tell, you may have neutral undertones. Let’s use this as a guide to find a shade that feels like it was made just for you.
For Warm Undertones: Tea Rose & Fortune Cookie
If you have warm undertones, your skin has a natural golden, peachy, or yellow hue. The key is to choose lip gloss shades that harmonize with that warmth. Think of colors that have a similar golden or orange base. Shades like the peachy-nude Fortune Cookie or the soft, warm pink of Tea Rose are fantastic examples. These colors won't clash with your skin's natural warmth; instead, they'll complement it, giving you a radiant, sun-kissed look. The goal is to lean into those beautiful golden notes, not fight against them. When you find the right warm-toned gloss, it effortlessly brightens your complexion.
For Cool Undertones: Raspberry Tart & Berry Strudel
For those with cool undertones, your skin has subtle hints of pink, red, or blue. To find your most flattering gloss, look for shades with a similar blue or pink base. Colors like the vibrant Raspberry Tart or the deep Berry Strudel are perfect because their cool base enhances the natural rosiness in your skin. These shades create a beautiful contrast that makes your lips pop and your skin look fresh and bright. Some brands even bring back fan-favorite cool-toned shades by popular demand, proving just how essential they are in a makeup collection. Choosing a gloss with a cool base is a simple way to achieve a polished and vibrant appearance.
For Neutral Undertones: Shades That Work for Everyone
Having neutral undertones means you have a balanced mix of warm and cool hues in your skin. This gives you the ultimate versatility—you can pull off almost any color! While you have the whole spectrum to play with, you’ll find that shades that aren't strongly one way or the other look especially harmonious. Think dusty roses, mauvy nudes, or balanced berry tones. These versatile colors bridge the gap between warm and cool, making them universally flattering. If you're still unsure where to start, getting some one-on-one advice from a beauty consultant can help you pinpoint the perfect shades to start your collection.
What Real People Are Saying About Butter Gloss
Marketing claims are one thing, but the real test of any beauty product is how it performs in the real world. When you strip away the fancy ads, what are people actually saying about NYX Butter Gloss? I went through the reviews to get the honest truth about its longevity, comfort, and color. Here’s the scoop.
How Long Does It Really Last?
Let’s be honest: lip gloss isn’t exactly known for its staying power. That’s why I was so impressed to see users report that Butter Gloss has some real longevity. One reviewer mentioned, "The gloss lasted about 4 hours, even when the reviewer was drinking." For a gloss, that’s pretty solid. It means you can get through a coffee meeting or a couple of hours of errands without needing to immediately reapply. While it won’t survive a full meal, its staying power is a definite step up from glosses that seem to disappear the moment you step out the door.
Is It Actually Comfortable?
Comfort is everything when it comes to lip products, and this is where Butter Gloss truly shines. Users consistently rave about its texture. One person described it as feeling "smooth like melted butter on the lips," which perfectly captures that non-sticky, pleasant glide. Even better, it doesn’t just sit on top of your lips; it actually feels nourishing. Another reviewer noted, "It does not dry out my lips; on the contrary, my lips actually felt hydrated while wearing this." Finding a gloss that delivers shine without sacrificing moisture is a huge win, and it’s a quality we prioritize in our own lip gloss formulas.
How's the Color Payoff?
When it comes to color, Butter Gloss strikes a great balance. It’s not a full-on liquid lipstick, but it’s more than just a sheer tint. According to one review, "It has good color with just one coat, and you can add more layers without it feeling sticky." This buildable formula is fantastic because it gives you control over your look. You can apply a single swipe for a subtle wash of color or layer it for a more opaque, vibrant finish. With a wide range of shades, including fan-favorites like Cinnamon Roll, it’s easy to find a color that works for you, whether you want a natural nude or a bolder pop.
What's Inside? The Secret to a Non-Sticky Feel
If you’ve ever been hesitant to try a lip gloss, it’s probably because you’re picturing the thick, goopy formulas of the past. We’ve all been there—the kind that feels heavy and creates a sticky trap for any stray hairs. Thankfully, lip gloss has come a long way. The secret to that modern, buttery-soft feel isn’t magic; it’s a thoughtful combination of ingredients designed for comfort and shine.
The best non-sticky glosses are built on a foundation of hydrating, lightweight ingredients that work together to create a smooth, cushiony texture. Instead of just sitting on top of your lips, these formulas are made to condition them while delivering that beautiful, high-shine finish. It’s all about finding the right balance of nourishing components, silky oils, and smart formulation technology. This shift in focus from just shine to shine and comfort is what makes today’s glosses a completely different experience. Let’s break down what’s really going on inside that tube.
The Hydrating Heroes
A great non-sticky gloss starts with ingredients that actually care for your lips. Formulas packed with hydrating heroes like Vitamin E, shea butter, and jojoba oil provide moisture that sinks in, preventing that dreaded dry or tight feeling you can get after a few hours of wear. This is a huge step up from older glosses that could sometimes leave your lips feeling even drier than before. When your gloss is actively conditioning your lips, it not only feels better but also looks smoother, creating the perfect canvas for a flawless shine. This focus on nourishment is what gives a quality lip gloss its plush, comfortable feel.
Lightweight Oils for a Smooth Glide
The reason a gloss feels "buttery" or "silky" comes down to the types of oils used in the formula. Instead of heavy, tacky ingredients, modern glosses use a blend of lightweight oils that allow the product to glide on effortlessly. These oils create a thin, flexible layer that feels weightless and comfortable, never sticky or thick. This is what gives you that smooth, glass-like finish without the heavy feeling. It’s a simple switch in formulation that makes a world of difference in how the gloss wears throughout the day, letting you almost forget you have anything on your lips at all.
The Tech Behind the Texture
Beyond the oils and hydrators, there’s some clever science that helps a non-sticky gloss perform so well. Formulators use specific ingredients that create a flexible film on your lips. This film helps lock in the color and shine, preventing the gloss from feathering or bleeding into fine lines. It’s what gives the product its staying power without resorting to sticky, glue-like textures. This technology ensures your gloss looks polished and stays put, providing a comfortable, long-lasting finish that you’ll find in many best-selling formulas today.
Get the Best Look: How to Apply Butter Gloss
A great lip gloss can stand on its own, but a few simple application tricks can take your look from everyday to exceptional. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle shine or a full, vibrant pout, the right technique makes all the difference. Think of these steps as the foundation for a perfect, long-lasting finish that feels as good as it looks. With a little prep and creative layering, you can customize your gloss to fit any mood or occasion.
Prep and Apply Like a Pro
For the smoothest application, you’ll want to start with a clean, hydrated canvas. Gently exfoliating your lips removes any dry skin, allowing the gloss to glide on seamlessly. After exfoliating, a light layer of lip balm can add extra moisture. Once your lips are prepped, consider outlining them with a lip pencil that matches your natural lip color or the gloss shade. This simple step defines your lip shape for a fuller, more polished appearance and helps prevent the color from bleeding. It’s a classic makeup artist trick that ensures your gloss stays exactly where you want it.
Layering for a Bolder Pout
One of the best things about a quality lip gloss is its versatility. You can wear it alone for a sheer wash of color and shine, which is perfect for a minimal makeup day. For more impact, try layering it over your favorite lipstick. This technique not only intensifies the color but also adds a beautiful, multi-dimensional finish that makes your lips look fuller. Simply apply your lipstick as usual, then dab the gloss in the center of your lips and blend outward with the applicator. The combination of a creamy
Create Your Own Custom Shade
Why stick to one shade when you can create your own? Mixing glosses is a fun way to create a custom color that’s uniquely yours. You can layer a shimmery nude over a deeper mauve or blend two of your favorite shades on the back of your hand before applying. This is your chance to play and find a combination that perfectly complements your skin tone. It’s also a great way to get more use out of your collection. By experimenting with different pairings, you can build your own collection of signature looks for any occasion.
Butter Gloss vs. The Competition
So, how does a butter gloss stack up against other popular lip products? The main difference comes down to finish and function. While each product has its place in your makeup bag, understanding their unique strengths will help you pick the right one for any occasion. It’s all about deciding if you’re prioritizing a high-shine finish, deep hydration, or a subtle hint of color. Let's break down the key players.
Butter Gloss vs. Lip Oils
Think of lip oils as a treatment that happens to look pretty. Their primary job is to sink into your lips and deliver deep, lasting hydration, leaving behind a healthy, subtle sheen. A butter gloss, on the other hand, is all about the finish. It sits on top of the lips to create a plush, reflective look that makes them appear fuller and more defined. While many modern lip gloss formulas are packed with nourishing ingredients, their main purpose is to provide that beautiful, high-shine finish that an oil just can’t replicate. Choose an oil for lip care and a gloss for a polished look.
Butter Gloss vs. Tinted Balms
A tinted balm is your go-to for a casual, low-maintenance look. Its main goal is to provide a protective layer of moisture with just a sheer wash of color. It’s the perfect product for those days when you want a little something without the commitment of a full lip look. A butter gloss offers a more intentional, statement-making shine. It delivers more pigment and a much glossier finish than a balm, instantly dressing up your makeup. If you want comfort and a hint of color, grab a balm. If you want noticeable shine and a fuller-looking pout, a gloss is the way to go.
Which One Lasts Longer?
When it comes to longevity, it depends on what you mean by "lasts." Because lip oils and balms are designed to absorb into the skin, their hydrating effects will stick around for a while. However, their color and shine are often very subtle and fade quickly. A gloss, especially a thicker, more pigmented formula, will provide a visible finish that lasts longer. You’ll likely need to reapply after eating or drinking, but the color and shine have more staying power than a typical oil or balm. Ultimately, high-quality formulas with richer pigments will always outperform thinner, less substantial products in terms of wear time.
Ready for an Upgrade? Where to Find Your Next Favorite Gloss
There’s a special kind of satisfaction in finding a drugstore product that just works. And while a great, affordable gloss has its place in every makeup bag, sometimes you’re ready for something a little more special. If you love the comfortable, non-sticky feel of a butter gloss but find yourself craving a more refined formula with skin-loving ingredients, it might be time to explore the world of luxury glosses.
Think of it like your favorite t-shirt versus a silk blouse. Both are great, but they serve different purposes and offer entirely different experiences. An upgraded gloss often comes with more sophisticated packaging, longer-lasting hydration, and thoughtfully curated pigments that feel incredible on your lips. It’s less about replacing a favorite and more about adding a new, elevated option to your routine for those moments when you want to treat yourself. This isn't about ditching what you already love, but about expanding your collection to include pieces that make you feel exceptionally polished and pampered. When you’re ready to make that switch, knowing what to look for can help you find a new holy grail that feels as good as it looks, turning a simple step in your makeup routine into a small moment of luxury.
Discover Nude Envie's Luxurious Lip Gloss
If you’re looking for that perfect upgrade, our collection of lip glosses is a great place to start. We designed our Nude Envie glosses to deliver a gorgeous, high-shine finish without any of the stickiness you might expect. Each shade is formulated with nourishing ingredients to keep your lips feeling hydrated, comfortable, and soft all day long. The goal was to create a gloss that not only looks beautiful but also feels amazing to wear—a true treat for your lips. From sheer, subtle nudes to richer, more pigmented tones, each one glides on smoothly for a flawless, polished look.
Drugstore Finds vs. Luxury Formulas
So, what’s the real difference between a drugstore staple and a luxury gloss? Drugstore options like the NYX Butter Gloss are fantastic for their accessibility, fun shade ranges, and budget-friendly price point. They’re perfect for trying out new trends without a big commitment. Luxury formulas, on the other hand, tend to invest more in the entire experience. This often means higher concentrations of premium ingredients like vitamins and hydrating oils, more elegant packaging, and finely milled pigments that provide a smoother application and richer color payoff. It’s a choice between everyday fun and everyday indulgence.
What to Look for in a High-Quality Gloss
Whether you’re browsing the aisles of a drugstore or a high-end boutique, the hallmarks of a great gloss are the same. First, pay attention to the texture—it should feel plush and smooth, never gritty or goopy. A truly high-quality gloss will offer lasting hydration that leaves your lips feeling better even after you’ve taken it off. Finally, consider the color payoff and finish. Are you looking for a sheer wash of color or a more opaque look? A great gloss should deliver on its promise, providing a beautiful shine that enhances your lips without feeling heavy or sticky.
Related Articles
- 5 Best Non-Sticky Clear Lip Glosses for Shine | Nude Envie
- 12 Best Non-Sticky Lip Glosses for 2025 | Nude Envie
- 5 Best Long Lasting Non Sticky Lip Glosses | Nude Envie
- 5 Best Non-Sticky Lip Glosses for Dry Lips | Nude Envie
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "butter gloss" a brand name or just a type of lip gloss? It’s a little of both! NYX created the iconic "Butter Gloss," which became so popular that the name is now often used to describe any lip gloss with that same super smooth, non-sticky, and melty texture. So while it is a specific product, it also perfectly captures the comfortable, buttery feel that defines this new generation of glosses.
Will a non-sticky gloss last as long as a traditional sticky one? Honestly, no gloss is going to survive a three-course meal. While the super tacky glosses of the past might have had a bit more staying power due to their glue-like texture, modern non-sticky formulas have impressive longevity for how comfortable they are. You can expect a few hours of wear, even through drinks, and the best part is that reapplying is a breeze—no mess, no stickiness.
Can I wear a non-sticky gloss over my lipstick without it feeling heavy? Absolutely. In fact, that’s one of the best ways to wear it. Because these formulas are so lightweight, they layer beautifully over lipstick to add shine and dimension without creating a thick, goopy feeling. For a great pro-look, apply your lipstick first, then dab a bit of gloss just in the center of your lips to create a fuller-looking pout.
What's the real difference between a drugstore gloss and a luxury one? Think of it in terms of the overall experience. Drugstore glosses are fantastic for their accessibility and for playing with a wide range of fun colors. A luxury gloss elevates that experience by focusing on premium, nourishing ingredients that care for your lips, more finely milled pigments for a smoother finish, and more elegant packaging. It’s about investing in a formula that feels just as good as it looks.
How can I make my lip gloss application look more polished and defined? The easiest trick is to start with a lip liner. Choose a shade that closely matches your natural lip color, not the gloss itself. Lightly outline your lips to define their shape and create a clean border. This simple step prevents the gloss from feathering and gives your entire look a sharp, professional finish that really makes the color pop.
