When I first heard about the new lip oil from Rare Beauty called Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil, I was curious. A lip oil that starts glossy then leaves a wash of colour? It sounded like a bit of a beauty magic trick. Since I live in the UK and try lots of products, I decided to test it properly and share what I found. In this article I’ll walk you through my experience: how it felt, how it looked, how it wore, and whether it’s worth your time and money. I’ll also give you background, tips for use, shade suggestions and where to buy.
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Getting to know the product
First, what is this product? Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil is described as: “an innovative lip jelly that transforms into a lightweight oil. Starts off glossy, then leaves lips tinted while gently plumping and staying comfortable—never sticky—all day.” Rare Beauty+2Sephora+2
It is vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and is aimed at providing both gloss (shine) and tint (colour) with a comfortable feel. Rare Beauty+1
There are eight shades available: Serenity (warm rose), Affection (muted berry), Happy (cool pink), Joy (muted peach), Delight (rose brown), Hope (nude mauve), Wonder (rose mauve) and Honesty (nude brown). Rare Beauty+1
So straight away you’re getting more than just a basic gloss—there’s colour, finish, comfort, and a brand reputation behind it.
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Why I decided to try it
As a blogger based in the UK, I have a few criteria when I pick a lip product to test:
- It must feel comfortable on the lips (no heavy, sticky or drying feel).
- It should deliver more than just shine—some colour that lasts or looks good beyond five minutes.
- The brand behind it should have some credibility (ingredients, values, packaging).
Rare Beauty ticked those boxes: the description promised comfort + performance, and user reviews were strong. One review noted: “It’s light and cushiony, never sticky, and provides just the right amount of gloss… then leaves a soft tint.” Feel Pretty with Pri
Given that, I thought: why not give it a go?
My first impressions
When the product arrived, I noticed a few things right away:
Packaging & look
The tube is compact, modern, quite sleek. The applicator is a flat, angled doe-foot. This makes applying smooth and easy. The shades in the swatch display looked promising.
Texture and feel
I applied one swipe and my lips felt soft, with a glossy finish that felt light—not heavy. After a few minutes the gloss settled and the lips didn’t feel sticky (which many glosses can feel). That line “never sticky” really rang true.
Colour & finish
My chosen shade for first trial was Wonder (rose mauve). It gave a subtle but visible tint. The gloss looked fresh, then faded into a tint. On other days I tried Hope (nude mauve) for a barely-there look. The effect was a “my lips but better” feel.
Comfort & longevity
I then wore it for various activities: working from home, walking into town, coffee out with friends. I was pleased that after a few hours the gloss sheen had faded a bit, but a hint of colour remained. My lips still looked fresh. The comfort remained: I didn’t feel the product drying out my lips or needing constant re-application.
So in first impression terms, it delivered more than I expected for a lip oil/gloss hybrid.
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Digging into the performance
Now let’s break down how it performed in detail, under different criteria you care about.
Colour payoff & shade choice
- The shade Wonder (rose mauve) looked great on my medium skin tone (UK). It wasn’t too overpowering, but gave a lovely flush of colour.
- Hope (nude mauve) was ideal for minimal make-up days: part of the idea of “soft pinch” of colour.
- If you like more bold, there’s Affection (muted berry) or Delight (rose brown) for more intensity. Users online mentioned layering up for more “pop”. Feel Pretty with Pri
- The eight-shade range means there’s something for many skin-tones and day vs evening looks.
Texture & finish
- The “jelly-to-oil” transformation is real. When you apply you feel the gloss, then the formula settles into a smoother oil-feel.
- The finish after a while is less high-shine and more softly shiny, with the tint staying on. That struck me as a useful feature: some glosses vanish or get patchy; this one faded but remained even.
- Importantly: no heavy, sticky feel. I felt comfortable wearing it, including with lunch, hot drinks etc.
Hydration, comfort & wearability
- The formula includes jojoba seed oil and sunflower seed oil, which help nourish and provide a barrier over the lips. Rare Beauty+1
- My lips felt smoother during the time I wore it. No obvious dryness or flakiness.
- In one review the author said it “feels like the lip balm I didn’t know I needed”. Feel Pretty with Pri
- On comfort I give it a strong “yes”.
Longevity & real-world wear
- While the gloss sheen did fade (inevitable given the finish), the tint remained on my lips after 3–4 hours, even after coffee and a light snack.
- I found makeup-touch-up wise: if you want maximum colour, a second swipe mid-day helps. But for daily use I found one swipe was enough.
- Users online say it can act like a stain—after the gloss fades you’re left with a soft coloured lip. For example: “It’s so pigmented… my lips were still stained a day after wearing it.” InStyle
- So from a practicality point: yes, it works for everyday and moderate wear.
Using it: my tips & trick
Here are some pointers I compiled from my trial and from reading other user-reviews. These will help you get the best from the product.
- Start with bare lips: Because the formula applies beautifully to clean lips.
- One swipe for subtle: If you just want a soft wash of colour, one swipe is enough.
- Layer for more: If you want a deeper tint, do a second layer. This was recommended by reviews. Feel Pretty with Pri
- Pair with lip liner: If you want more definition, line your lips first (a nude or shade-matching liner) then apply the lip oil.
- Use midday touch-up: If you find the gloss sheen fades and you want fresh shine, reapply or simply add a clear gloss on top. The underlying tint will remain.
- Match the shade to your mood: For low-makeup days pick Hope or Honesty. For more going-out looks pick Affection or Delight.
- Apply before eating/drinking: Because while the tint stays, the gloss layer will naturally fade with contact. So if you can apply just after you’ve had your coffee/food, you’ll start the day stronger.
- Store well: As with any oil/gloss hybrid, keep in a cool place to avoid separation (although I found the formula stable).
How it compares to other lip oils/glosses
Since many people reading will be thinking: “I already have a lip gloss or lip oil—what’s different here?”, it’s worth comparing.
- Many lip oils prioritise hydration and gloss, but may lack a visible tint or may feel very oily. Rare Beauty’s lip oil strikes a balance of gloss + tint.
- Many traditional glosses may feel sticky or heavy; this one is comfortable, light, and non-sticky (which reviewers emphasised). Feel Pretty with Pri
- As per UK beauty editors, lip oils are a growing category and Rare Beauty is one of the standout brands this year. Who What Wear
- The value-for-money vs premium trade-off: this is a premium brand (Rare Beauty), so you pay more than generic gloss. But if you value performance + feel + brand, you may find it worth the price.
My verdict: is it worth it?
After using it for several weeks, here’s how I’d summarise:
What I loved
- The comfortable feel (no stickiness).
- The colour flush effect: natural yet visible.
- The staying-power of the tint after the gloss fades.
- The shade variety and versatility (everyday vs evening).
- The credible brand behind it, with good ingredients (jojoba & sunflower oils).
- The packaging and design: nice but not overly fussy.
What to consider
- If you are on a strict budget, you might find cheaper lip glosses or oils that do “good enough”. So the premium price may not be essential for everyone.
- If you prefer fully matte lipsticks with high pigment and full coverage, this isn’t exactly that. It’s more about comfort, shine + a soft tint.
- If you eat a full lunch and then use lip colour in the afternoon, you may need a top-up if you want maximum gloss. But brightness of tint remains.
My bottom line
If I were recommending to a friend: yes—if you care about comfort, ease, a nice finish and don’t want to fuss with multiple products, this is a strong pick. If you just want a one-product lip item for everyday wear that looks polished and feels good, it ticks that box. If you’re after high drama or low budget, maybe look at alternatives. But in my view it delivers and gives something a bit more special than many glosses.
Where to buy & price guide
You can buy it directly on the Rare Beauty website: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil Rare Beauty
You can also find it at major retailers (for example in the UK via Sephora or other stockists): Sephora UK listing Sephora
In Pakistan (for those reading from Lahore or elsewhere) it is available at local online stores with appropriate pricing and shipping. Skin Store Pakistan
Price in the US is around USD 22 (for full size). UK pricing may be slightly different due to tax/ import/ shipping. Rare Beauty
Always check for authenticity, the shade you want, shipping & returns conditions.
My favourite occasions to wear it
Here are scenarios when I found it especially useful:
- Work-from-home days: Minimal make-up, but you still want to feel pulled-together. One swipe of Hope did the trick.
- Quick coffee meet-ups or errands: You don’t want high-maintenance but you want your lips to look alive. Wonder or Joy work well.
- Evening out-insider glow: Layer Affection for more depth; add a lip liner if you like more definition.
- Travel days: Lightweight carry, versatile finish, one product does multiple jobs (gloss + tint).
- Minimal-make-up days: When you skip heavy lipstick, you want just enough colour. This product fits that “soft pinch” idea perfectly.
Sustainability & brand values
It’s worth noting that Rare Beauty as a brand emphasises values beyond just makeup. The company was founded by Selena Gomez and supports inclusive beauty, mental-health funds (via the Rare Impact Fund) and cruelty-free, vegan formulas. Wikipedia+1
So for many users the decision is not just about the product, but about the brand’s mission and ethics.
Final thoughts
“Beyond a gloss” truly sums up my experience. This isn’t just a shiny lip product—it offers colour, comfort, versatility and a sense of polish with minimal effort. The “Soft Pinch” of colour is exactly what the name suggests: not heavy or dramatic (unless you want it layered), but enough to lift your look.
If I were to sum it up in one sentence: For daily wear, comfort, ease and a subtle boost of colour, the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil is a beauty buy I’d recommend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil different from normal lip gloss?
The Rare Beauty Lip Oil isn’t just a shiny gloss; it’s a hybrid between a gloss, tint, and treatment oil. When applied, it feels like a lightweight jelly, then transforms into a soft oil that deeply hydrates the lips. Unlike normal glosses that fade quickly or feel sticky, this one leaves behind a lasting tint of colour even after the shine wears off. That means your lips stay fresh and naturally coloured for hours without reapplying every few minutes. You can learn more about how it works on the Rare Beauty website.
What are the main ingredients used in the Rare Beauty Lip Oil?
This lip oil uses a blend of botanical ingredients designed to soften and condition lips. The key ones are jojoba seed oil and sunflower seed oil, both known for their hydrating and protective properties. These natural oils form a thin barrier that helps lock in moisture, keeping lips smooth and supple. The formula is also vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, making it suitable for sensitive lips or people who prefer clean beauty products. For the full ingredient list, check the product details on Rare Beauty’s official product page.
Does the Rare Beauty Lip Oil really last all day?
While no lip product lasts forever, this one does hold up well. The glossy shine typically lasts for two to three hours, depending on how much you eat or drink, but the tint of colour remains much longer — sometimes up to five or six hours. Even after the glossy layer fades, your lips still look lightly stained, fresh, and alive. It’s perfect for people who don’t like frequent touch-ups but still want a put-together look throughout the day.
Is the formula sticky or heavy on the lips?
Not at all — and that’s one of the biggest reasons people love it. The Rare Beauty Lip Oil has a lightweight, cushiony texture that feels silky rather than sticky. It’s designed to glide on smoothly and settle comfortably without that tacky feeling some glosses leave. Many reviewers describe it as “a soft, balmy layer” rather than a wet gloss. You can find more first-hand reviews on Sephora’s website.
Which shade of Rare Beauty Lip Oil should I choose?
That depends on your style and skin tone. The brand offers eight versatile shades, ranging from subtle nudes to deeper berries:
- Hope – nude mauve, ideal for daily wear
- Joy – muted peach, perfect for warm tones
- Wonder – rose mauve, great for natural glam
- Affection – muted berry, flattering for deeper complexions
- Honesty – nude brown, a good neutral tone
For an everyday tint, Hope and Joy are the most universally flattering, while Affection works beautifully for an evening look. Try browsing the shade swatches on Rare Beauty’s official site before you choose.
Can I wear this lip oil with other makeup products?
Absolutely. This lip oil is one of the most versatile lip products you can own. You can:
- Use it alone for a natural, effortless look.
- Apply it over a lip liner for more shape and definition.
- Layer it on top of matte lipstick to add shine and comfort.
It also works beautifully with Rare Beauty’s other products, like the Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, to create a cohesive, dewy makeup look. Because it’s lightweight, it blends easily with other textures without smudging or clumping.
Is the Rare Beauty Lip Oil good for dry or sensitive lips?
Yes — in fact, that’s one of its strongest points. The formula is enriched with hydrating natural oils that help nourish and smooth dry lips over time. Unlike some lip tints that can feel drying once the pigment sets, the Rare Beauty version keeps lips feeling soft and moisturised even after the shine disappears. It’s also dermatologist-tested and fragrance-light, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin types. If your lips tend to crack or peel, this oil can double as a gentle conditioning treatment.
Is the Rare Beauty Lip Oil worth the price?
At around £20–£22 (or $22 in the US), it sits in the mid-luxury range of lip products. What you’re paying for is a well-researched formula, high-quality ingredients, and a dual finish (gloss + tint). You’re also supporting a brand with strong ethics, as Rare Beauty donates 1% of sales to the Rare Impact Fund, helping expand mental health access globally. Considering all that, it offers excellent value for both quality and purpose. Learn more about the brand’s mission here.
Where can I buy the Rare Beauty Lip Oil in the UK?
In the UK, you can easily purchase the Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil from Sephora UK or through Rare Beauty’s official online store. Some shades also appear on retailers like Space NK and Cult Beauty, depending on stock availability. Always buy from authorised sellers to ensure the product’s authenticity. Here are a few trusted links:
- Sephora UK – Rare Beauty Lip Oil
- Rare Beauty official site
Is Rare Beauty a cruelty-free and sustainable brand?
Yes. Rare Beauty is proudly cruelty-free, vegan, and committed to sustainable beauty practices. All products are made without testing on animals, and the brand continuously works on improving packaging sustainability. Additionally, through the Rare Impact Fund, Selena Gomez’s company has pledged to raise $100 million over ten years to expand access to mental health services. This means when you purchase from Rare Beauty, you’re contributing to a company that values people and the planet as much as profit.
Final Note
The Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil isn’t just another gloss; it’s a modern, multi-purpose beauty product that fits into every lifestyle — whether you prefer no-makeup days or full glam. It proves that a little “soft pinch” of colour can go a long way, blending skincare benefits with the artistry of makeup.
