Lip gloss has been a staple for beauty lovers of all ages. It’s an everyday essential that you can dress up or down, whether you’re headed to the gym or hitting up a party. There’s no question: a good lip gloss is a must-have.
Two major brands have recently dominated the lip gloss game: Rhode and Summer Fridays. Both are blowing up on social media, especially TikTok, but each has its own unique vibe and marketing approach. Wondering which one deserves a spot in your beauty routine? Let’s break it down.
Rhode’s Minimalistic Approach
Named after Hailey Bieber’s middle name, Rhode has quickly made a name for itself in the lip gloss industry. Bieber initially aimed to launch “Bieber Beauty” but had to rethink the brand name when it turned out the trademark was already taken in 2003. So, in early 2021, she trademarked ‘Rhode’, officially launching on July 15, 2022, with three debut products: the Peptide Glazing Fluid, Barrier Restore Cream and the Peptide Lip Treatment.
The peptide lip treatment is the brand’s standout, featuring a nourishing formula packed with peptides for that ultimate hydrated, dewy look. Rhode’s design is sleek and minimal, with a soft palette of gray, pink and white that embodies Bieber’s “clean girl” aesthetic. It’s made for those who crave that effortless, glass-skin glow.
Summer Friday’s Vibrant Colors
Summer Fridays, on the other hand, was founded by influencers Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Ireland. After receiving countless PR packages, they saw room in the market for products that felt luxurious yet functional. Their first product, the Jet Lag Mask, was a hit until their lip glosses quickly stole the spotlight.
Summer Fridays caters to a more vibrant, ‘vacation-ready’ aesthetic, with packaging that’s eye-catching. Their signature Lip Butter Balm, encased in a pastel-colored tube, is loaded with ultra-hydrating ingredients and delivers a soft, glossy finish. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a tropical, rejuvenated look.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Rhode and Summer Fridays may both live in the beauty aisle, but their aesthetics couldn’t be more different. Rhode champions a clean, minimalist look, targeting those who want hydration and simplicity in one. Meanwhile, Summer Fridays brings a pop of color and beachy vibes, designed for users who want to bring a touch of vacation into their everyday life.
Product Variation
When it comes to product variety, Summer Fridays is the winner. They offer everything from serums, moisturizers and cleansers to belly balms, body lotions and of course, lip glosses. This range caters to users with a variety of skincare needs. Rhode, on the other hand, sticks to a tighter product lineup, focusing mainly on cleansers, lip glosses and blushes, perfect for those who appreciate a streamlined skincare routine.
Packaging of Products
Rhode’s packaging stays true to its minimalist roots with a soft and understated elegance, creating a sleek feel. In contrast, Summer Fridays uses vibrant, eye-catching colors that channel vacation vibes. Rhode is for the beauty minimalist, while Summer Fridays appeals to those who love a pop of color on their vanity.
Conscious Money Saving
When comparing price points, Rhode edges out slightly on affordability. A set of four Peptide Lip Treatments costs $65, while Summer Fridays offers a holiday set of three Lip Butter Balms for $49. This breaks down to around $16.25 per lip gloss in the Rhode set and $16.33 per gloss for Summer Fridays. But it’s worth noting the size difference: Rhode offers 10ml per gloss, while Summer Fridays comes in at 15ml.
Some users believe Rhode’s formula lasts longer, requiring fewer reapplications throughout the day. It’s a small difference, but one that could sway those who want lasting hydration.
So, Which One?
Ultimately, it’s a matter of style and preference. Rhode brings simple elegance, focusing on hydration and that clean, dewy finish. Summer Fridays is all about versatility, offering a splash of color and a variety of product options to match.
If you’re into a minimalist, ultra-hydrating look, Rhode is your pick. But if you crave variety, bold packaging and a vacation-inspired aesthetic, Summer Fridays is calling your name. At the end of the day, go with the gloss that makes you feel your best and keeps your lips looking perfectly poppin’!
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