Forget its sticky, bee-sting Y2K reputation— the lip plumping gloss revival is lightweight, hydrating and more effective. But while the fuller pout sans needles is fascinating, we’re intrigued by the working of this sorcery. “Lip plumpers work by causing mild irritation to the skin surface. Due to this irritation, the area gets inflamed and this causes swelling to appear. Ingredients like menthol, mint, cinnamon and capsaicin are often used to stimulate blood flow to the area and cause a tingling sensation,” says Dr Mikki Singh, Head Dermatologist at Bodycraft Skin Clinic, Bangalore. “These ingredients are relatively safe when used in the right concentrations. However, the lip plumping action of these ingredients is temporary and short-lived,” adds Dr Janet Alexander Castelino, Founder of DermaZeal Clinic.
That being said, be sure not to overdo it, “constant use of lip plumpers may cause cracking and peeling of the lips” warns Dr Mikki. Not a fan of the sting? Opt for irritant-free formulas that use humectants like hyaluronic acid to draw in moisture and plump up the lips. “Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that can hold a thousand times its own weight in water. It provides a lip plumping effect and lip hydration as well,” explains Dr Janet. Here are 7 lip-plumping glosses we’re adding to our cart now!
1. DIOR Addict Lip Maximizer Gloss
A Bella Hadid favourite, the Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Gloss is formulated with hyaluronic acid that provides a volumising and hydrating effect coupled with a beautiful sheer wash of colour and a delicious minty scent.
2. Too Faced Lip Injection
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The tingle is very real with the cult favourite Too Faced Lip Injection that contains capsaicin (the stuff that makes peppers spicy), but boy oh boy it sure can add dramatic volume in a matter of minutes. The formula also features nourishing ingredients like Avocado and Jojoba oils, Atelocollagen, Marine Filling Spheres and Vitamin E.
3. MAC Powerglass Plumping Lipgloss
MAC Powergloss Plumping Lipgloss’ innovative formula features a tingling complex of ginger, capsicum and menthol crystals for rapid volume while the hyaluronic acid, avocado and coconut oil offer intense hydration.
4. Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Lip Bath
Charlotte Tilbury’s Collagen Lip Bath formulated with marine collagen enhances lip volume without the sting. This high-shine gloss puts moisture back into the lips for an instantly healthier-looking pout. Plus how cute is that heart-shaped applicator!
5. Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lip Volumizer
Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lip Volumizer goes on clear but responds to the lips’ unique chemistry to reveal a hint of tint that’s perfect for you. Formulated with a blend of hyaluronic spheres, it leaves the lips moisturised, smooth and plump.
6. PIXI LipLift Max
A peptide-infused lip plumper, PIXI LipLift Max nourishes, firms and makes your lips look fuller. This high shine formula also contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile and jojoba oil for softer and healthier lips.
7. Victoria’s Secret Crystal Clear Lip Plumper
Infused with Marine Collagen microspheres, Victoria’s Secret Crystal Clear Lip Plumper promises you an instant more-is-more pout and an ultra glossy finish.
Also read about 6 Celeb Inspired Unconventional Lipsticks You Need To Try
