Is Glossier Worth the Hype?

By Sumaiyah S. Bynum

Glossier is a people-powered company. Its products are cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic (so far, so good). The brand caters to any individual’s needs, from skincare to makeup, and even fragrances — we love! This beauty brand is known for its aesthetically pleasing products, but is it worth the hype or the price? 

During the summer of last year, I discovered Glossier. I will admit the minimalistic packaging captured me at first. Then, I was slightly taken aback when I saw how much each product went for. At the time, I was “ballin” and fell to the pressures of society. So you know what I did? I clicked that add to cart button and purchased the lip gloss and a dew effect highlighter in the shade Moonstone. Here are my thoughts on each product I purchased:

Glossier Lip Gloss ($14)

Glossier’s gloss is said to be perfectly formulated to give you everything you love about a lip gloss. Unfortunately, it does nothing different than your generic brand lippie. I really wanted to be obsessed with this product, especially given the price. Although the gloss gives you that impeccable shine, it is not longwear friendly. It wipes off pretty quickly whilst leaving a sticky film behind. Since the tube is small, I was afraid it was going to run out quickly, which it did. If you’re someone like me who has big lips or likes to reapply lip gloss throughout the day, then this is not for you. The applicator is tiny and doesn’t scoop up enough product. 

Worth the hype? No.

Haloscope Highlighter Stick ($22)

Glossier’s haloscope highlighter sticks which run for $22, not including tax. I have always stayed away from shimmery eyeshadows and highlighters because I never thought they complimented me well. Plus, I am not a big makeup wearer, but I was intrigued by how natural Glossier’s highlighter sticks look on different skin tones. Its dew effect formula gives subtle shine to any place you apply it. It glides on easily and blends well with your skin. I only use it on my brow bone and eyelids. The consistency is a bit thick so I steer clear from applying it on more sensitive areas of my face. The highlighter comes in three different shades: Topaz, Quartz, and Moonstone. Glossier makes note that the sticks are infused with vitamin-rich moisturizers, which I guess could be the reason for the high pricing. Once applied to your face, it stays on all day. The only thing is, it’s hard to take off. I also noticed that I couldn’t wear foundation if I was using the highlighter stick. Since the formula is oil based, it wipes off any makeup underneath so you're left with an odd smear. 

Worth the hype? “Look at the material– you can be the judge of it.”- Tiffany “New York” Pollard

Here are a few affordable alternatives to Glossier’s lip gloss and highlighter stick that will for sure have you looking your best! 

e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Lip Lacquer ($3)

The e.l.f. Cosmetics clear lip gloss is the perfect dupe for Glossier’s lip shine. This gloss will give your lips that shine without the grime! Its hydrating formula is infused with vitamin E and avocado oil, leaving your lips feeling moisturized. This lip lacquer can also be paired with your favorite shade of lipstick or worn alone to gleam in glory. Their cosmetics are also vegan and not tested on animals!

ColourPop’s So Juicy Plumping Gloss ($7)

As if the name isn’t already telling us everything we need to know about this gloss! ColourPop is known for their affordable and good-quality products. Their crystal clear gloss in the shade Princess Cut is hydrating and plumping whilst giving a smooth glassy shine. The juicy lippie is infused with a natural emollient, jojoba oil. If you’re worried about your pores getting clogged, no need to fret, jojoba oil actually helps regulate the natural oils your body produces. This gloss is perfect for a natural look, just grab a lip pencil that’s a few tones deeper than your shade to line your lips and voila!

L.A. Colors’ High Shine Shea Butter Lip Gloss ($3.50)

If you’re big on scents, then this is the gloss for you! L.A. Colors’ High Shine Clear Gloss is not only moisturizing, but it also smells good because it’s infused with a light vanilla scent. The shea butter enriched gloss keeps your lips feeling soft all day without leaving a trace of stickiness behind. This gloss comes in a variety of shades that are rich in color and guaranteed to keep you shining.

Burt's Bees Highlighter Stick ($9.49)

The Burt’s Bees Highlighter Stick is multipurpose––from face to eyes to lips, this product has you covered. It is lightweight and non-sticky, giving you the gleam you deserve!

e.l.f’s Beautifully Bare Highlighting Stick ($4)

This highlighter stick is made to bring your beauty to light by giving your face a fresh and natural glow. The product comes in three illuminating shades: Champagne Glam, Fresh Morning Dew and Pink Pearl. All enriched with coconut oil and vitamin E. 

Maybelline’s Facestudio Master Strobing Stick ($6.59)

Don’t mind being the center of attention? This highlighter will have all eyes on you. With its creamy and non-sticky formula, strobing is quick and easy!

Glossier is considered to be a back-to-basics makeup brand but unfortunately some products aren't a reflection of that. When you think of all the things you love about everyday beauty products, quality and cost is a factor. Especially when your a college student, $22 can go a long way! 

So what are you waiting for? Trade in your gloss! Fill your makeup bag with these dupes and share your glow with the world!

Images courtesy of brands, cover image courtesy of @charissek on Instagram.