During the coldest months of the year, the lips become one of the most vulnerable areas of the face. The combination of wind, low temperatures, and reduced air humidity quickly compromises the skin’s barrier function, promoting transepidermal water loss, roughness, and the appearance of microcracks. Because this area has a naturally thinner stratum corneum and virtually no sebaceous production, it responds more intensely to environmental aggressors.
In this context, lip products with very dry or excessively opaque finishes tend to worsen the sensation of tightness and highlight irregularities. For this reason, lip oils, hydrating glosses, and treatment-focused lip plumpers have taken center stage in winter routines. These formulas rely on emollient and occlusive systems capable of reinforcing the skin barrier, reducing water evaporation, and restoring elasticity to the lips—without compromising comfort throughout the day.

From a technical standpoint, these products work by creating a flexible lipid film on the skin’s surface, limiting moisture loss and improving the immediate sensation of softness. In addition, continued use contributes to the recovery of lip texture, making lips more even, less prone to flaking, and visually healthier. The translucent finish and controlled shine act as an optical effect that softens fine lines and enhances the natural tone of the lips without weighing down the look.
Lip gloss as a vehicle for hydrating active ingredients
Contemporary lip glosses have evolved into formulas very close to dermocosmetic serums. Their base generally combines lightweight oils—such as jojoba derivatives or vegetable squalane—with humectants capable of attracting and retaining water on the skin’s surface. Among these, glycerin, panthenol, and, in more advanced formulas, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid stand out.
The mechanism of action of these actives is complementary: while humectants increase the water content in the superficial layer of the lips, emollients smooth irregularities and improve skin flexibility. The result is hydration that is noticeable immediately after application and remains stable even with frequent reapplication. The absence of artificial fragrances and menthol, common in more recent formulas, reduces the risk of sensitization—an important factor during winter.
In the Brazilian market, brands such as Quem Disse, Berenice? and Vult follow this approach, prioritizing non-sticky gel textures and formulas that offer long-lasting comfort without compromising the integrity of the lip skin.

Lip plumpers and volume through optical mechanisms
Modern lip plumpers have moved away from aggressive stimulation and now invest in smarter volumizing mechanisms. Instead of intense rubefacient actives—such as high concentrations of menthol or capsaicin—many formulas use biomimetic peptides and hydrating agents that promote mild, controlled swelling by increasing the skin’s water content.
This effect is enhanced by light-reflecting particles that create an optical illusion of greater volume, especially in the central area of the lips. At the same time, actives such as panthenol, vitamin E, and vegetable oils contribute to barrier regeneration, preventing the burning sensation common in older versions of this type of product.
In Brazil, brands like Bruna Tavares successfully explore this balance between visual results and care, offering products that deliver the appearance of fuller lips without compromising comfort—an essential aspect for continuous winter use.
Why lip oils and glosses are replacing lipstick in winter
Lip oils stand out as the category most oriented toward deep treatment. Their formulas typically combine vegetable oils rich in essential fatty acids—such as grape seed oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil—with nourishing butters like shea or cupuaçu. These components have a high affinity with the skin’s natural lipids, facilitating superficial penetration and improving moisture retention.

The mechanism of action involves both lipid replenishment and the formation of a uniform protective barrier, significantly reducing water loss throughout the day. In more sophisticated formulas, antioxidants such as vitamin E and botanical extracts help protect the lips against oxidative stress caused by cold and wind.
In the national market, brands like Natura and Simple Organic stand out for developing lip oils focused on plant-based actives, refined sensoriality, and formulas suitable for frequent reapplication—especially during periods of harsher weather.
A new logic for lip makeup in cold weather
The growing preference for hybrid lip products reflects a clear shift in beauty consumer behavior. In winter, makeup moves beyond a purely decorative role and takes on a functional one, contributing to skin health. By choosing products that combine translucent pigmentation, moderate shine, and treatment actives, consumers prioritize solutions that respect the real needs of the lips.
This approach does not eliminate the aesthetic aspect but repositions it: the focus is on visibly healthy lips, with even texture and enhanced natural color. It is makeup that keeps pace with the season and adapts to environmental conditions, solidifying lip oils and glosses as winter essentials.







