Does Lip Plumping Gloss Actually Work?

Are plumping glosses actually doing anything, or are they too good to be true? Well, we did some research, and we’re happy to report that lip-plumping glosses can give you a (temporarily) fuller pout. For those wanting plumper lips without turning to injectables, a lip plump gloss can be the perfect tool.

How Lip Plumping Glosses Work

Plumping glosses are formulated with active ingredients that stimulate blood flow to the area, which causes a temporary swelling that leads to fuller lips. 

Some of the most effective plumping ingredients include naturally-derived extracts like capsicum, cinnamon, ginger, and peppermint. You know that tingle you feel right after applying a lip plumper? These are the ingredients responsible for that sensation. 

In addition to stimulating ingredients, many lip plumpers are also made with hydrators and conditioners. These types of ingredients help subtly plump by boosting hydration levels and can provide more long-term benefits for the lips. They also help soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother pout. 

Benefits of Lip Plumping Gloss

Of course, one of the most noticeable benefits of plumping formulas are the visible effects on your pout. The best glosses will give you fuller, attention-grabbing lips—but that’s not all. 

High-performing plumpers are often made with ingredients that moisturize and condition for a super-soft feel. As you are looking for a lip product, seek out formulas made with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E.

Tips for Using Lip Plumper

In order to make the most of your lip plumper, you’ll want to exfoliate before application. This will get rid of any dead skin cells that may lead to uneven color coverage. It will also clear away anything that would create a barrier between the gloss and your lips to ensure you get the most dramatic effects. You can exfoliate with a lip scrub, or simply use a damp face towel to gently buff away dead skin cells. 

To maximize your results, we recommend pairing your lip plumping gloss with a lip liner, like the Patrick Ta Precision Lip Crayon. A liner can add a bit more shape to your lips, helping them look even more voluminous. Apply the lip liner first, and then go in with an even layer of your plumping gloss all over the lips. 

Lip-Plumping Power

It’s undeniable that high-quality lip plumper formulas can be incredibly effective, especially for those looking to achieve fuller-looking lips without having to turn to invasive procedures. However, it’s important to remember that the pout-boosting effects of lip plumpers are only temporary. Once the stimulating effects of the active ingredients subside, so will the swelling. To maintain your results, you’ll need to reapply your lip plumper as needed. 

Lip Plumper vs Lip Gloss

Standard glosses can make your lips look subtly fuller, as the added shine draws attention right to your lips. That said, a lip gloss won’t actually do anything to the shape of your lips. This is because—unlike lip plumpers—lip glosses aren’t made with active ingredients that boost blood flow and volume. They might contain hydrators that can subtly add fullness to the lips, but the effects will be much less dramatic than with a lip plumper. 

If you are just looking to add color and shine to your lips, reach for a lip gloss. When you want to add a little more drama to your pout, pull out all the stops with a lip plumper. 

FAQs:

Are lip plumpers safe?

In general, lip plumpers are safe to use. That said, it’s possible that a formula may contain ingredients that don’t play well with your skin. If you notice any adverse reactions (like painful burning or redness), cease use immediately. 

How long does lip plumper last?

How long the plumping effects last will vary from product to product, but in general, you should expect to see fuller lips for at least a few hours. To maintain the results throughout the day, you’ll want to reapply as needed. 

How many times should you apply lip plumper?

You can reapply your lip plumper as needed to freshen up your gloss and re-stimulate blood flow for a fuller pout. Typically, you’ll want to reapply a couple times throughout the day to maintain the results from your first application.

So do lip plumping glosses actually work? Lucky for us, the answer is yes. When you want to add extra power to your makeup look, apply a lip plumper for a voluminous pout.