Do plumping lip glosses really work? Here’s a rundown of how to get a perfect pillowy pout
Where would the world of make-up be without lip gloss? A tiny tube that can take your look from day to night, give you a new sense of confidence in a single swipe or add a little extra shine to your daily make-up.
There’s a lip gloss formula out there to suit everyone – whether you’d like a little extra nourishment or just love the look of a wet-look finish. But one of our personal favourites? A plumping gloss.
How does plumping lip gloss work?
As well as giving high-shine and hydration, these plumping formulas can help make lips appear fuller. They’re designed to boost blood flow to your lips, causing a subtle swelling effect that causes your pout to be that little bit bigger.
Some formulas rely on gentle inflammatory ingredients like ginger root extract or capsicum pepper to do this, while others use common ingredients found in your skincare routine instead. Both hyaluronic acid and collagen produce peptides that can boost your lips hydration levels, smooth fine lines and plump up the pout.
How can I use a plumping lip gloss?
Most plumping lip glosses have lightweight formulas and a hint of pigment, ideal for using on their own or on top of a lip liner or lipstick as a finishing touch.
But if you prefer a more natural or matte finish to your lip look, it doesn’t mean you need to miss out on the plumping action. Instead, apply your plumper before you begin the rest of your make-up and let it get to work, giving you a boost of volume. When you’re ready, simply remove any leftover product and go in with your chosen lip shade instead.
No matter your favourite finish, lip colour or budget, there’s a plumping gloss out there for you. Here’s our edit of the best plumping lip glosses available at Boots…
Best for a glossy finish
Try: M.A.C Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick
• Available in 10 shades
• Exclusive to Boots
Yep, gloss and balm have collided! This innovative release from M.A.C gives a glossy, wet-look tint to the lips in a single swipe. It’s packed with nourishing ingredients that also pack a great plump – we’re talking the conditioning power of shea butter, coconut oil and avocado oil combined with tantalising ginger root extract to give that boost of volume.
Best for hydration
Try: DIOR Addict Lip Maximiser
• Gives up to 24-hours of hydration*
• Available in 4 finishes and 2 intensities – classic, intense, shimmer and holographic
Immediate volume, all day hydration AND an ultra-couture case? This lip gloss from DIOR has it all, plus it’s made with 90% natural-origin ingredients like hyaluronic acid and cherry oil. Once applied, the plumping action is almost immediate and the minty-fresh effect feels wonderfully refreshing on the lips. This one’s a real handbag staple.
Best for layering over lipstick
Try: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Heat Lip Luminizer and Plumper
• Size: 9ml
• Available in 6 shades
All shine and no shimmer makes this the perfect pick for layering over your favourite lip combo for a little extra oomph. Designed to deliver a hint of tint and a gentle warming sensation, the Plump Job Complex works to leave your lips feeling smooth and looking fuller. Ingredient-wise, it’s got ginger root oil, shea butter, vitamin E and an irresistible light peach scent.
Best for easy application
Try: Maybelline Lifter Gloss Plumping Hydrating Lip Gloss Hyaluronic Acid
• Available in 18 shades
For a natural plumping effect, you want a formula dripping with hyaluronic acid, as this will work to hydrate the lips and prevent chapping or dryness. This one from Maybelline does just that, and has a XL wand to make contouring and plumping the lips effortless. Some shades of this internet-favourite gloss include sun-kissed bronze pigments to add a golden-hour inspired glow to your look.
Best for a pre-make-up plump
Try: Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker XL Lip Gloss Clear
• Extreme plumping lip gloss
• With Lipswell™ natural plant oil infusion
Applying a generous helping of this clear gloss to your lips before the rest of your make-up will leave you with a seriously plump pout just in time to finish your look before you head out the door. This pigment-free formula works great alone or on top of your favourite lip products – why not try adding a little shine to your favourite matte lip?
Best for a high-pigment plumper
Try: e.l.f. Lip Plumping Gloss
• Available in 10 shades
• High-shine formula
Looking for a lip gloss that gives as much in pigment as it does in volume? Choose from mauve, pinks, peaches and reds and enjoy the soothing sensation with this little gem from e.l.f. It’s enriched with vitamin E and coconut oil to help nourish and hydrate and gives a glossy, shiny finish. What’s not to love?
