8 Film-Forming Lip Glosses To Get A Watery Shine That's Transfer- And Smudge-Resistant

Glossy lips have made a huge comeback in recent years, but rather than a complete revival of the y2k-style lip gloss, we've entered a new age for the glazed lip. They're now hyper-shiny, almost like a coat of water magically clinging on to the lips. It's fresh and youthful, yet can make anyone feel like a real baddie. The secret to getting this look? It's film-forming lip glosses!

First popularised in the C-beauty world, this film-forming technology uses silicone-based ingredients to make the lip gloss separate into two layers -  a bottom layer of pigment and a transparent watery film on top. This layered effect is what creates intensely glossy and voluminous lips. Thanks to the non-sticky top film, these lip glosses are often marketed as transfer-proof. That's a little generous in our book, but we can safely say that they're more resistant to transfer and smudges than traditional lip glosses.

The best way to apply film-forming lip glosses

It's just lip gloss, isn't it? Don't we all slap it on without too much thought? Well, if there's anything we can learn from C-beauty influencers, it's that even lip gloss application is an art. You could apply it in the regular fashion - one layer all over the lips, and it'll look perfectly fine. However, if you want irresistibly kissable lips with maximum pout and juiciness, sit back down, pull up a mirror and take a few minutes to apply not one but two layers of lip gloss.

Before you start applying the lip gloss, give the applicator a few pumps in the tube to make sure it's well mixed. Start by using the applicator tip to line your cupid's bow and lower lip like you would with a lip liner, and paint the inner portion of the lip. Then, draw an upward wing at each side of your lips to create an illusion of a resting smile - the opposite of a resting b*tch face, if you will. Blend in this first "outline" layer to the rest of your lips. After that, dip the applicator back into the gloss to get more product and use the flat side to apply the gloss all over the lips.

Once you're happy with how it looks, leave it to settle into two layers. Do not pucker your lips, it'll create a messy, patchy look. Wait two to three minutes or until the film-forming tech does its thing, and voila, you'll have three-dimensional, juicy-looking puckers with a stunning wet shine.

If you're sold on this watery-shine lip look, here are eight film-forming lip glosses to add to your makeup collection:

#1 Judydoll Ice Watery Lip Gloss ($14.90)

Photo from Judydoll

We love a metal applicator for lip products and this one takes things up a notch with its noob-friendly design. The convex curved side scoops up the perfect amount of gloss and well-shaped for lining the lips. Flip it over to the concave side and it's ideal for precise application on the upper lips.

#2 Flortte Butterfly Lip Lacquer ($11.98)

Photo from Flortte

One of the OG film-forming lip glosses on the market, this lippie went viral on TikTok thanks to its long-lasting formula that stays shiny even when drinking from a cup. It comes in eight flattering shades, and the cute butterfly packaging is the cherry on top!

#3 ROMAND Glasting Water Tint ($15.95)

Photo from ROMAND

Probably the most well-known lip gloss on this list, this cherry-like tint forms into the glass-like layer a little faster. The gloss coat doesn't last as long but the bottom layer of pigment does!

#4 MQNY MACQUEEN NEWYORK Dewy Water Glow Lip Tint (from $14.07)

Photo from MQNY MACQUEEN NEWYORK

The brand's Dewy Over Lip Gloss is also worth trying, but this one's more long-wearing and pigmented. It comes in nine shades ranging from cool to warm tones and light to deeper hues.

#5 Black Rouge Bokki Lip Tint ($13.90 - $15.90)

Photo from Black Rouge

This glossy lip tint comes in a wide shade range with 12 delicious-looking hues to choose from. They're all playfully named after food which does a lot to win a foodie over. Imagine how fun it would be to apply Bacon Pink, Cheese Coral or Honey Soy to your lips!

#6 AMUSE Dewy Lip Tint ($27)

Photo from AMUSE

If you're in the market for something that feels a little more upscale, this is the one to go for! It's formulated with moisturising and nourishing ingredients like mango extract, apple extract and vitamin E.

#7 Colorkey Airy Lip Gloss Mirror Series ($11.45)

Photo from Colorkey

Want a bold, sultry look? This lip gloss has you covered. It comes in a range of statement colours from deep purples and dark mauves to rich reds.

#8 JOOCYEE Glazed Rouge Watery Lip Gloss ($23.51)

Photo from JOOCYEE

Lip gloss tubes are fun but there's something about swiping on lipstick that feels elegant. This product offers the best of both worlds! It has the effect of a film-forming lip gloss but comes in a traditional lipstick bullet. The new formula is now glossier and more transfer-proof, and four new shades have joined the mix for a total of 16 colours.