When Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty in September 2017, the beauty world changed forever. While the 40-shade foundation range rightfully grabbed headlines, one unexpected product quietly became a cult classic: the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. This $21 lip gloss single-handedly brought glossy lips back into fashion after years of matte-lip dominance. Eight years later, with countless shades, variations, and over 10 million tubes sold worldwide, the Gloss Bomb remains one of Sephora’s bestselling lip products. But does it still deserve its iconic status in 2025? After testing every shade and formula variation, we’re giving you the complete, unfiltered truth about Rihanna’s legendary lip gloss.
What is Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb?
The Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer is a high-shine lip gloss designed to deliver “explosive shine” while conditioning and plumping lips. Created by Rihanna herself (who famously said “I made it because I wanted the girls to get kissed more”), the original formula was meant to be universally flattering—a rose nude that looks good on everyone.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer
- Price: $21 USD / £17 GBP / $30 AUD
- Size: 0.3 fl oz / 9 mL
- Available Types: Original (shimmer) and Cream (no shimmer)
- Shade Count: 20+ shades across both formulas
- Finish: High-shine, glossy, luminous
- Key Ingredients: Shea Butter, conditioning agents
- Signature: Addictive peach-vanilla scent
- Claims: Non-sticky, conditioning, universally flattering
- Where to Buy: Sephora, Fenty Beauty website, Ulta, Harvey Nichols (UK)
Read also: Maybelline Sky High Mascara Review: The Viral TikTok Mascara with 367M Views — Does It Live Up to the Hype?
The Fenty Phenomenon: How One Gloss Changed Everything
Before we dive into the review, let’s understand the cultural impact of this product:
The Launch That Broke the Internet
September 8, 2017: Fenty Beauty launches with 40 foundation shades and one lip gloss Within hours: Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow sells out nationwide First year: Over 3 million tubes sold Today: 10+ million tubes sold, countless variations launched
Why It Became Iconic
1. Rihanna’s Influence: When Rihanna—a literal style icon—creates a product, people listen. Her personal involvement wasn’t just marketing; she genuinely wore and promoted the gloss.
2. Perfect Timing: Launched during peak matte-lip fatigue, Gloss Bomb reminded everyone that glossy lips could be chic, not sticky.
3. The “Universal” Promise: In an era pushing inclusivity, a gloss that genuinely looked good on many skin tones was revolutionary.
4. Non-Sticky Formula: Finally, a high-shine gloss that didn’t feel like cement on your lips.
5. That Scent: The addictive peach-vanilla fragrance became instantly recognizable and beloved.
First Impressions: Packaging and Design
The Gloss Bomb arrives in Fenty’s signature modern, sophisticated packaging.
Packaging highlights:
- Clear plastic tube with white cap
- Fenty Beauty logo prominently displayed
- See-through design shows product color
- XXL doe-foot applicator (seriously huge)
- Lightweight and portable
- Cap snaps shut securely
- Sleek, Instagram-worthy aesthetic
The oversized applicator is one of Gloss Bomb’s signature features—it’s intentionally massive to coat lips in one swipe without multiple dips. Some love it for ease; others find it picks up too much product.
The Original Formula: Texture and Performance
In the Tube
The original Gloss Bomb has a medium-thick, jelly-like consistency that’s neither too runny nor too viscous. It flows smoothly from the applicator without dripping everywhere.
Texture characteristics:
- Jelly-like, bouncy consistency
- Slightly thick but spreads easily
- Not runny or watery
- Smooth, even formula
On the Lips
Application:
- Glides on effortlessly
- XXL applicator coats lips in 1-2 swipes
- Feels cushiony and comfortable
- No tugging or dragging
The shine:
- EXPLOSIVE is the right word
- Mirror-like, glass finish
- One of the shiniest glosses on market
- Catches light beautifully
- Makes lips look fuller instantly
The feel:
- Surprisingly comfortable
- Not sticky (this is crucial!)
- Slightly cushioned feeling
- Hair doesn’t stick to it
- Smooth, slippery texture
The scent:
- Addictive peach-vanilla fragrance
- Noticeable but not overpowering
- Fades within 10-15 minutes
- Many buy it FOR the scent alone
- Some find it too strong (personal preference)
The Non-Sticky Truth
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Is it really non-sticky?
YES… mostly. Compared to traditional glosses (especially drugstore options), Gloss Bomb is significantly less sticky. However:
- It’s not completely transfer-proof
- There’s a slight tackiness initially
- Not as weightless as lip oils
- Hair can stick if it’s very windy
- More comfortable than 90% of glosses
Bottom line: If you hate ALL stickiness, even slightly, this might bother you. If you can tolerate minimal tackiness, you’ll love it.
Complete Shade Guide: Every Gloss Bomb Color
Fenty has expanded the Gloss Bomb line significantly. Here’s every shade:
Original Gloss Bomb (Shimmer Formula)
1. Fenty Glow ⭐ THE ORIGINAL
- Color: Rose nude with peachy undertones
- Shimmer: Golden, shimmering particles
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick II-IV)
- Vibe: The unicorn nude everyone raves about
- Bestseller status: #1 shade, most popular
2. Fu$$y
- Color: Soft romantic pink
- Shimmer: Fine pink shimmer
- Best for: Fair to medium skin (Fitzpatrick I-IV)
- Vibe: Sweet, girly, feminine
- Perfect for: Cool undertones
3. Diamond Milk
- Color: Milky pearl, almost clear
- Shimmer: Opalescent, iridescent shimmer
- Best for: All skin tones (truly universal)
- Vibe: Dewy highlight for lips
- Perfect for: Layering over lipstick
4. Glass Slipper
- Color: Crystal clear with shimmer
- Shimmer: Holographic, prismatic
- Best for: All skin tones
- Vibe: High-shine topper
- Perfect for: Enhancing natural lip color
5. Sweet Mouth
- Color: Warm peachy-coral
- Shimmer: Golden shimmer
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick II-IV)
- Vibe: Summer, vacation-ready
- Perfect for: Warm undertones
6. Hot Chocolit
- Color: Chocolate mauve-brown
- Shimmer: Violet-mauve shimmer
- Best for: Medium to deep skin (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)
- Vibe: Sexy, sophisticated
- Game-changer: First nude for deeper skin tones!
7. Cheeky
- Color: Bright coral-pink
- Shimmer: Pink shimmer
- Best for: Light to medium skin
- Vibe: Fun, playful, bold
8. Bomb Baby
- Color: Warm terracotta-brown
- Shimmer: Bronze shimmer
- Best for: Medium skin (Fitzpatrick III-V)
- Vibe: Earthy, natural
9. Fenty Glow Heat
- Color: Warmer, deeper version of Fenty Glow
- Shimmer: Golden bronze
- Best for: Medium to tan skin (Fitzpatrick IV-V)
- Vibe: Sun-kissed, warm
10. Confetti
- Color: Sheer pink with multi-colored shimmer
- Shimmer: Rainbow, confetti-like particles
- Best for: All skin tones
- Vibe: Party, celebratory, fun
Gloss Bomb Cream (No Shimmer Formula)
11. Mauve Wives
- Color: Soft mauve-pink
- Coverage: Medium, buildable
- Best for: Fair to medium skin
- Vibe: Sophisticated neutral
12. Cookie Jar
- Color: Chocolate caramel-brown
- Coverage: Medium to full
- Best for: Light to deep skin (surprisingly universal!)
- Vibe: Rich, warm, cozy
- Fan favorite: Many prefer this over Hot Chocolit
13. PB&J
- Color: Berry jam pink
- Coverage: Medium
- Best for: Light to medium skin
- Vibe: Fresh, berry-stained
14. Cake Shake
- Color: Soft peachy-nude
- Coverage: Medium
- Best for: Fair to light skin
- Vibe: Natural, everyday
15. Taffy Tease
- Color: Bright bubblegum pink
- Coverage: Medium to full
- Best for: Light to medium skin
- Vibe: Fun, youthful, playful
Plus limited editions and seasonal shades that rotate throughout the year.
Read also: NARS Orgasm Blush Review: Is The Iconic Blush Still Worth It After 25+ Years?
Which Shade Should You Choose?
For your first Gloss Bomb: Fenty Glow (if light-medium skin) or Hot Chocolit (if medium-deep skin) For fair skin: Fu$$y, Cake Shake, Fenty Glow For medium skin: Fenty Glow, Sweet Mouth, Cookie Jar For deep skin: Hot Chocolit, Bomb Baby, Fenty Glow Heat For cool undertones: Fu$$y, Mauve Wives, PB&J For warm undertones: Sweet Mouth, Cookie Jar, Bomb Baby For maximum shine: Any original shimmer formula For no shimmer: Any Gloss Bomb Cream For layering: Diamond Milk, Glass Slipper (clear with shimmer)
Gloss Bomb vs. Gloss Bomb Cream: Which is Better?
Fenty offers two distinct formulas. Here’s how they compare:
Original Gloss Bomb (Shimmer)
Pros:
- Maximum shine and dimension
- Shimmer catches light beautifully
- Original iconic formula
- More shades available
- Creates fuller-looking lips
- That signature shine everyone loves
Cons:
- Shimmer not for everyone
- Can emphasize lip lines slightly
- More sheer coverage
- Shimmer can feel gritty to some
Best for: Those wanting maximum shine, light reflection, and the classic Gloss Bomb experience
Gloss Bomb Cream (No Shimmer)
Pros:
- No shimmer (cleaner finish)
- More pigmented (better coverage)
- Lasts slightly longer
- Doesn’t emphasize texture
- More sophisticated look
- Better for professional settings
Cons:
- Less dimensional (flatter)
- Doesn’t create same “wow” shine
- Fewer shade options
- Can look too opaque for some
Best for: Those who hate shimmer, want more coverage, prefer sophisticated/mature looks
Our Verdict
For first-time buyers: Start with original Gloss Bomb in Fenty Glow—it’s THE iconic experience.
If you love it: Branch out to Gloss Bomb Cream for variety and no-shimmer days.
Performance: All-Day Wear Test
Longevity
On bare lips (no eating/drinking):
- 0-2 hours: Full, glossy shine exactly as applied
- 2-4 hours: Shine fades slightly, color remains
- 4-6 hours: Noticeable fading, subtle gloss remains
- After 6 hours: Mostly worn off, leaves slight tint
Average wear time: 3-4 hours before needing touch-up
With eating/drinking:
- Fades significantly after meals
- Drinking doesn’t remove it completely
- Oily foods remove most color
- Requires reapplication after eating
Compared to other glosses:
- Lasts longer than: Most drugstore glosses (1-2 hours)
- Similar to: High-end glosses (Charlotte Tilbury, MAC)
- Shorter than: Liquid lipsticks, stains, long-wear formulas
Comfort Throughout Wear
One of Gloss Bomb’s greatest strengths is how comfortable it remains:
- Never feels dry or tight
- Doesn’t settle into lip lines
- Stays smooth and slippery
- Lips feel conditioned even after it wears off
- No white buildup in corners of mouth
The Plumping Effect
Does it actually plump lips?
Short answer: Sort of, but not dramatically.
How it works:
- High shine creates optical illusion of fullness
- Conditioning formula smooths lip surface
- Shea butter provides temporary plumping from hydration
- No irritants or tingle (gentle plumping only)
Reality: Your lips will look 10-20% fuller from shine and hydration, not dramatically plumped like with lip plumpers containing irritants.
How to Apply Fenty Gloss Bomb
Getting the most out of this gloss requires proper application:
Method 1: Solo Application
Step 1: Start with clean, exfoliated lips (use lip scrub if needed) Step 2: Apply lip balm and let absorb (optional, for extra hydration) Step 3: Wipe XXL applicator on rim to remove excess Step 4: Apply from center of bottom lip, moving outward Step 5: Press lips together gently Step 6: Apply to top lip using same technique Step 7: Add more for extra shine if desired
Method 2: Over Lipstick (Topper)
Step 1: Apply your favorite lipstick as usual Step 2: Let lipstick set for 30 seconds Step 3: Apply thin layer of Gloss Bomb over top Step 4: Focus on center of lips for dimensional look Step 5: Blend edges gently
Works amazingly over: Matte liquid lipsticks, powder lipsticks, lip liners
Method 3: With Lip Liner
Step 1: Line and fill lips with nude lip liner Step 2: Apply Gloss Bomb over the top Step 3: Enjoy longer-lasting, more defined lips Step 4: Liner prevents feathering and extends wear
Best lip liners for Fenty Glow: MAC Soar, Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk, NYX Mauve
Pro Application Tips
✅ Blot lips first: Removes excess oil for better adherence ✅ Layer strategically: Apply to center, let natural movement spread ✅ Use as highlighter: Dab on cupid’s bow for extra dimension ✅ Mix shades: Combine two colors for custom shade ✅ Apply before mascara: Prevents smudging if you smile ✅ Refrigerate for plumping: Cold gloss enhances plumping effect ✅ Use less than you think: XXL applicator over-delivers product
Fenty Gloss Bomb vs. Other Iconic Glosses
Vs. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre ($30)
Fenty wins:
- More affordable ($21 vs $30)
- Better scent (subjective but most agree)
- More shade options
- Bigger cult following
Charlotte Tilbury wins:
- More luxurious packaging
- Slightly less sticky
- More sophisticated marketing
- Lasts slightly longer
Vs. MAC Lipglass ($22)
Fenty wins:
- Non-sticky formula
- Better scent
- More modern, on-trend
- Conditioning ingredients
MAC wins:
- More shades (50+)
- Been around longer (trust)
- Similar price
- Professional MUA favorite
Vs. Glossier Lip Gloss ($16)
Fenty wins:
- More shine and impact
- Better pigmentation
- More luxe experience
- Iconic status
Glossier wins:
- More affordable
- Simpler, cleaner formula
- Lighter, less noticeable
- Minimalist aesthetic
Vs. NYX Butter Gloss ($6)
Fenty wins:
- Significantly better formula
- Non-sticky (NYX can be tacky)
- Longer-lasting
- More luxurious experience
NYX wins:
- 1/3 of the price
- More accessible
- Good enough for most
- Great dupe option
Pros and Cons
What We Love ✨
- Iconic, cult-favorite status earned over 8 years
- Rihanna’s personal involvement you’re buying from an icon
- Non-sticky formula genuinely comfortable to wear
- Explosive, high-shine finish creates glass-like lips
- Addictive peach-vanilla scent (if you like scents)
- Conditioning shea butter lips feel soft after wearing
- XXL applicator makes application foolproof
- Creates illusion of fuller lips optical plumping
- Universal shades available work on many skin tones
- Two formula options shimmer and cream versions
- Extensive shade range 20+ colors
- Works as topper transforms any lip color
- Cruelty-free brand (Fenty doesn’t test on animals)
- Inclusive brand values Rihanna built Fenty on inclusivity
- Photo-friendly looks amazing in pictures
- Worth the hype genuinely special formula
What Could Be Better 🤔
- Price is steep at $21 for 0.3oz (though on-par with luxury)
- Wear time is moderate 3-4 hours, needs reapplication
- Not transfer-proof will rub off on cups, masks
- Can feel slightly sticky for those hyper-sensitive to tackiness
- XXL applicator wastes product picks up too much
- Scent can be overwhelming for fragrance-sensitive individuals
- Original formula limited for deep skin (improved with later shades)
- Shimmer may emphasize texture on mature or textured lips
- Some shades look similar color range could be more diverse
- Not long-wearing compared to liquid lipsticks
- Can get messy in purse if cap isn’t secured
- The hype might set unrealistic expectations
Is Fenty Gloss Bomb Worth $21?
Breaking Down the Value
Cost analysis:
- 0.3 fl oz / 9 mL of product
- Lasts 3-6 months with regular use
- $21 ÷ 4.5 months = $4.67/month
- 2-3 applications per day = $0.15 per use
Compared to drugstore glosses ($6-10):
- 2-3x more expensive
- Significantly better formula
- Much less sticky
- Conditioning ingredients
- Luxury experience
Compared to luxury glosses ($25-40):
- Mid-range pricing
- Competitive quality
- Iconic status
- Good value for prestige category
Our Final Verdict: YES, it’s worth it!
The Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb absolutely deserves its iconic status. After eight years, countless variations, and millions of tubes sold, it remains one of the best lip glosses on the market.
Worth buying if:
- You want a high-quality, non-sticky gloss
- You value iconic, cult-favorite products
- You love high-shine, glossy lips
- You appreciate luxury at mid-tier pricing
- You’re a Rihanna/Fenty fan
- You want the “it girl” lip gloss
- You layer gloss over lipstick frequently
- You can tolerate minimal tackiness
- You enjoy fragrance in lip products
Skip it if:
- You’re on a very tight budget (try NYX Butter Gloss)
- You need transfer-proof, long-wearing formula
- You absolutely hate ANY stickiness
- You’re sensitive to fragrance
- You prefer matte lips exclusively
- You need medical-grade lip treatment
- You want something more unique/under-the-radar
Best Drugstore Dupes and Alternatives
If you love the concept but want more affordable options:
Top Dupes
1. NYX Butter Gloss ($6)
- Similarity: 80% dupe
- Differences: Slightly stickier, less shine
- Verdict: Best drugstore alternative
2. e.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil ($8)
- Similarity: 70% similar concept
- Differences: Oil formula, different feel
- Verdict: Great budget option
3. Maybelline Lifter Gloss ($10)
- Similarity: 75% dupe
- Differences: Slightly tackier, different scent
- Verdict: Solid mid-range dupe
4. Revlon Kiss Plumping Lip Creme ($9)
- Similarity: 70% similar
- Differences: More plumping, different texture
- Verdict: Good if you want actual plumping
5. Milani Keep It Full Nourishing Lip Plumper ($9)
- Similarity: 75% dupe
- Differences: Contains actual plumping ingredients
- Verdict: Best if you want real plumping effect
Luxury Alternatives
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre ($30)
- More expensive, similar performance
- More luxurious packaging
- Different aesthetic
Tom Ford Lip Lacquer Luxe ($60)
- Ultra-luxury option
- Beautiful formula
- 3x the price
MAC Lipglass ($22)
- Professional MUA favorite
- More shade options
- Similar price point
New Release: Gloss Bomb Stix
In 2024, Fenty released Gloss Bomb Stix—a lipstick-gloss hybrid in a twist-up format:
What they are:
- Twist-up gloss sticks
- 10 shades
- Combine shine of gloss with convenience of lipstick
- $25 (slightly more than original)
How they compare:
- More convenient for on-the-go
- Less messy than liquid gloss
- Slightly less shine than original
- More pigmented
- Different application method
Worth trying? If you love Gloss Bomb but want less mess, yes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Fenty Gloss Bomb plump lips?
Yes, but gently. It doesn’t contain irritants like some plumpers (no tingling or burning). The plumping comes from: (1) high shine creating optical illusion of fullness, (2) shea butter providing hydration-based plumping, and (3) smoothing formula making lips appear fuller. Expect 10-20% plumping, not dramatic transformation.
How long does Fenty Gloss Bomb last on lips?
3-4 hours on average without eating or drinking. With meals, it fades significantly and requires reapplication. For maximum longevity, apply over lip liner or set lipstick.
Is Fenty Gloss Bomb sticky?
Compared to traditional glosses, it’s significantly less sticky. However, it’s not completely non-sticky—there’s a slight tackiness initially that fades. It’s comfortable enough that hair doesn’t constantly stick, but it’s not as weightless as a lip oil.
What does Fenty Gloss Bomb smell like?
It has a signature peach-vanilla scent that’s sweet but not overwhelming. The fragrance is noticeable when first applied but fades within 10-15 minutes. Some people love it (many buy it FOR the scent), while others find it too sweet.
Can you wear Fenty Gloss Bomb over lipstick?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best uses. Apply over matte liquid lipsticks to transform them to glossy finish, or layer over powder lipsticks for added shine and dimension. It’s especially beautiful over nude and pink lipsticks.
Which Fenty Gloss Bomb shade is most popular?
Fenty Glow is the #1 bestselling shade—it’s the original “universal rose nude” that launched in 2017. For deeper skin tones, Hot Chocolit and Cookie Jar are fan favorites.
Is Fenty Gloss Bomb vegan and cruelty-free?
Fenty Beauty is cruelty-free (doesn’t test on animals). The brand is also vegan—all products are free from animal-derived ingredients.
Does Fenty Gloss Bomb work on dark skin?
The original Fenty Glow was criticized for being too light on deep skin. However, Fenty listened and released Hot Chocolit, Bomb Baby, and Fenty Glow Heat specifically for deeper skin tones. The Gloss Bomb Cream line also has shades like Cookie Jar that work beautifully on all skin tones.
How is Gloss Bomb different from Gloss Bomb Cream?
Original Gloss Bomb: Shimmer formula, maximum shine, more sheer, creates most dramatic “gloss bomb” effect. Gloss Bomb Cream: No shimmer, more pigmented, better coverage, more sophisticated finish.
Can you use expired Fenty Gloss Bomb?
Lip gloss generally expires 12-18 months after opening. Signs it’s expired: changed smell, separated formula, different texture, or irritation upon use. For safety and performance, replace after 12-18 months.
Where to Buy Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb
Official Retailers
Fenty Beauty Official Website
- Price: $21
- Pros: Full stock, newest shades first, samples
- Shipping: Free over $50
Sephora
- Price: $21
- Pros: Beauty Insider points, easy returns, testers in-store
- Shipping: Free over $35
Ulta Beauty
- Price: $21
- Pros: Ultamate Rewards points, in-store availability
- Shipping: Free over $35
Harvey Nichols (UK)
- Price: £17
- Pros: UK availability, luxury department store
- Shipping: UK and international
Mecca (Australia)
- Price: $30 AUD
- Pros: Australian availability, excellent service
- Shipping: Free over $75
Shopping Tips
- Wait for Sephora sales: 15-20% off during VIB Sales
- Birthday gift: Sephora sometimes offers Fenty minis
- Gift sets: Holiday sets include multiple Gloss Bombs at discount
- Try in-store: Test shades before committing
- Rouge rewards: Use points for free products
- Follow @fentybeauty: First to know about new shades
Avoiding Fakes
Fenty is commonly counterfeited. Ensure authenticity:
- ✅ Buy only from authorized retailers listed above
- ✅ Check packaging quality (should be flawless)
- ✅ Verify Fenty Beauty logo is crisp
- ✅ Smell should be distinct peach-vanilla
- ✅ Formula should be smooth, never grainy
- ❌ Avoid eBay, unauthorized Amazon sellers
- ❌ Skip suspiciously low prices
- ❌ Don’t buy from unknown websites
Final Thoughts
Eight years after launch, the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb remains one of the most beloved lip glosses in beauty history—and for excellent reasons. Yes, there are cheaper alternatives. Yes, the wear time could be longer. Yes, it’s not completely non-sticky for ultra-sensitive individuals. But the combination of high-shine finish, comfortable formula, conditioning ingredients, iconic status, and genuinely thoughtful shade range makes this a truly special product.
Rihanna didn’t just create a lip gloss—she created a cultural moment. She brought glossy lips back into fashion, proved that luxury doesn’t have to sacrifice comfort, and showed that inclusive beauty isn’t just a marketing buzzword but a genuine commitment. The Gloss Bomb embodies everything Fenty Beauty stands for: quality, inclusivity, and fun.
At $21, it’s an accessible luxury that makes you feel like you’re part of something special every time you apply it. Whether you’re wearing Fenty Glow to feel like Rihanna, Hot Chocolit to celebrate finally having a gloss for deeper skin, or Diamond Milk to add that perfect finishing touch—you’re experiencing one of the most thoughtfully created glosses on the market.
Our Rating: 4.8/5 ⭐
Bottom Line: An iconic, genuinely excellent lip gloss that earned its cult-favorite status through quality, comfort, and Rihanna’s vision. Eight years later, it’s still one of the best glosses money can buy.
Have you tried Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb? Which shade is your ride-or-die? Are you Team Original or Team Cream? Share your favorites in the comments!
This review is based on extensive personal testing of multiple shades and formulas over several years. We may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links in this article, which helps support our content at no extra cost to you. All opinions are 100% honest and our own.
