Okay, so you heard the rumors—they swapped out the lanolin. I panicked, bought three tubes of the old formula on eBay, and then *actually* tried the new one. Plot twist: I might not need my emergency stash.
The tube is noticeably smaller, which is annoying, but the new squeeze mechanism means I’m not wasting product digging my nail into the side. That alone changes the game for me.
It’s still $18 for the mini (the full size is gone, rip), and Glossier claims it’s “more moisturizing” than before. The old one was basically a thick, waxy petroleum jelly. This one is trying to be an actual skincare product.
Squeeze Tube
No more sticky cap residue on your fingers, but you can’t get the last 20% out.
Thinner Texture
It glides on like a balm, not a paste. Feels less like lip glue.
Clear Formula
The tinted shades are now sheerer. Less pigment, more shine.
Photo: ibnu ihza / Unsplash
The old formula was 90% lanolin—great for sealing, terrible if you’re allergic. This one swaps in synthetic squalane and castor seed oil. It’s a totally different beast.
- Squalane: Lighter than lanolin, sinks in fast
- Castor Seed Oil: Adds a glossy, plumping look
- Beeswax: Keeps it thick enough to stay put
- Vitamin E: The only antioxidant that actually survives shipping
Photo: Amanda Wolbert / Unsplash
First swipe: it feels like a luxury lip oil that decided to thicken up. The old one sat *on* my lips like a shield; this one melts in within 20 seconds. My lips feel wet, not waxy.
Week two: I’m not reaching for it as often because it doesn’t “fix” my chapped lips instantly. But my lips aren’t peeling anymore. The shine lasts about 45 minutes, which is decent for a balm.
Photo: Content Pixie / Unsplash
My fine lines around the mouth look softer because the squalane actually hydrates, rather than just trapping dead skin. But the old formula was better for overnight slugging—this one absorbs before I fall asleep.
Photo: Christin Hume / Unsplash
It’s not better or worse—it’s just *different*. If you want a pretty, glossy everyday balm, this wins. If you wanted a heavy-duty repair mask in a cute tube, you’ll be disappointed.