Lip plumper

Lip plumper is a cosmetics product used to make lips appear fuller. In appearance, it ranges from translucent to opaque and tinted. A lip plumper can be formulated to be worn alone as a lip gloss. Sheerer versions can be applied under lipstick.

Lip plumpers are used by those with thinner lips when full, "pouty" lips are desired. These products typically work by irritating the thin, delicate skin of the lips with ingredients like menthol or camphor. This makes the lips swell slightly, which may also diminish the appearance of fine lines in that area. Other perceived benefits include stimulating collagen production and moisturizing. A lip plumper's effects are temporary, so it must be reapplied throughout the day to maintain the results.

Lip plumper application

The manner in which a lip plumper is applied depends on the cosmetic's formulation and container. When the product comes in a tube, a wand applicator is usually attached to the inside of the cap. A wand applicator consists of a very small, fuzzy piece of foam on a long stem. Semi-solid plumpers, which are applied with fingers or a lipstick brush, may come in small pots. A container with a roller ball permits direct application.

Lip plumper ingredients

Although most ingredients are proprietary, it is common knowledge that the main ingredient is gelatin obtained from boiled pig skin. The gelatin acts to coat the lips and protect delicate nerve endings from damage due to the active ingredient(s) present in the cosmetic.