Now, even though emollients are essential, they might vary from brand to brand. For example, some lip gloss might use synthetic oils, while others (like organic or natural lip glosses), will use jojoba or coconut oil. Thing is, using oil as a base for lip gloss means that it provides a slippery surface for your lips, and as such, is much easier to wear off. That's why lip glosses also use thickeners — in the form of waxes or clays — to ensure that your lip gloss stays put (via Byrdie).
While pigment is an important part of lipstick, it's not as important to lip gloss, where sheen is the star. That said, many lip glosses do have color to them, and that can come via an FD&C dye, iron oxide, or mica, which can add sparkle (via Self). Additionally, many lip glosses have some flavoring added to them, (and potentially a sweetener so that it tastes good), along with ingredients to give it a stable shelf life. Some even have SPF (via Prevention) to prevent your lips from getting a sunburn.
And there you have it: the main difference between lipstick and lip gloss is in the amount of oil and pigment used, along with additional ingredients. But no matter what you choose, it's sure to make your pucker even prettier.
