Y2K lip comeback: gloss or concealer?

The early 2000s are back in a big way, and nowhere is the nostalgia stronger than on our lips. From ultra-glossy, ‘juicy’ shine to the pale, muted concealer-style lip, Y2K beauty is officially trending again. But how do you choose between them, and which shades flatter your skin tone? Clicks Beauty Squad member and makeup artist Sphelele Mkhize breaks down the difference and shares her pro tips for pulling off each look.

Gloss vs. concealer lips: what’s the difference?

According to Sphelele, it all starts with the finish. “Glossy, juicy lips are all about high shine, while the concealer-style lip needs a soft, muted base,” she explains. Regardless of the trend, one rule stays constant: “The right lip liner is essential. Avoid shades that match your skin too closely, or blend into the concealer, or your lips will lose structure.”

For high-shine Y2K gloss, Sphelele recommends layering for longevity: “Start with a matte lipstick so the colour holds, then top it with a high-shine gloss.” 

The concealer-style lip calls for a different texture. “Use a hydrating or satin-finish concealer with a lip liner to enhance the shape. The hydration keeps the lip from looking flat or chalky,” she says.

Step-by-step glossy or ‘juicy’ lip

Step 1: Prep and plump

Start by exfoliating with a gentle lip scrub to remove dryness, then apply a light layer of balm. This creates that smooth, cushiony base Y2K gloss is known for.

Step 2: Define with liner

Choose a brown lip liner that suits your skin tone and lightly overline the top lip (just on the Cupid’s bow) to give that early-2000s fullness.

Step 3: Lay down colour

Apply a matte or semi-matte nude lipstick. This anchors the gloss so it doesn’t bleed and gives you longer wear.

Step 4: Add high-shine gloss

Finish with a thick, high-shine gloss, clear, peach, coffee or soft pink tones work best for the juicy look. Focus the gloss at the centre of the lip to catch the light and create dimension.

Essence Lip Care Sugar Scrub 02 Matcha Latte 9g

Sorbet Nourishing Lip Balm Pomegranate 

Yardley Gel Sensation Lipliner Pecan Brown 

Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick Cool Nude 715 

Revolution Pout Bomb Plumping Gloss Cookie 4.6ml

Step-by-step concealer-style or ‘muted nude’ lip

Step 1: Smooth and hydrate

Exfoliate and use a hydrating balm. Blot excess so the concealer can adhere.

Step 2: Shape and structure

Line the lips with a brown liner that contrasts enough to define the mouth.

Step 3: Create the pale base

Apply a hydrating or satin-finish concealer five to seven shades lighter than your foundation. Tap it onto the centre of the lips with a fingertip or a small brush. Blend slightly but keep the edges crisp at the lip liner.

Step 4: Choose Your finish

● Matte Y2K look: Set lightly with translucent powder.

● Modern soft-focus version: Skip the powder so the finish stays satin and wearable.

● Alternative: Swap concealer for a satin nude lipstick for a more long-lasting and lip-friendly take.

NYX Professional Makeup Slim Lip Pencil Brown 1.05g

The Body Shop Vitamin C Concealer 1W Light 8ml

Revolution Matte Base Concealer C8 8ml

L’Oréal Color Riche Satin Lipstick 1990 Bordeaux 

MUA Invisible Silk Loose Setting Powder 

Wet N Wild Photo Focus Loose Powder Translucent 

Choosing shades for your skin tone

Your skin tone should guide your choice in liners and lip bases. “Choose your lip liner the way you choose foundation – based on where you fall on the light to deep spectrum,” Sphelele advises. Deeper skin tones pair beautifully with rich brown liners, while lighter skin tones suit softer brown shades unless you're going for a bold, high-contrast effect.

For the concealer lip, she suggests going lighter: “Pick a concealer that’s five to seven shades lighter than your foundation so it really pops. If you're very fair and can’t find lighter concealers, use a deeper brown liner to create contrast.”

Seasonal picks (and why you don’t need rules)

While glossy lips often feel summery and matte finishes skew winter, Sphelele says the trend is more flexible than you think. “Honestly, it depends on your vibe and the occasion, soft glam, night glam, or sun-kissed glam. You can wear both looks all year round.”

Pro tips for the perfect finish

Remember: prep is everything. “Always exfoliate your lips and hydrate with a balm,” she says. For the matte concealer lip, setting it matters: “Finish with a translucent powder so it lasts. If you prefer a softer finish, skip the powder.” And if the idea of using actual concealer doesn’t excite you? “A satin nude lipstick gives the same effect but wears better because it’s designed for lips,” Sphelele adds.

IMAGE: freepik.com