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Between the great debate of lip filler versus a lip-flip and exactly how many syringes are ideal for a natural-but-not-too-natural look, there’s a lot to consider when deciding if injections are right for you. If you’re anything like me and the thought of spending a lot money on a cosmetic procedure that might not end up looking the way you want it to, you’re open to exploring easier (and less expensive) solutions.
For a lip-filler alternative, don’t overlook lip plumpers — they’re having quite the resurgence! In the past, I strayed away from these, too, in fear of painful formulas that have a reputation of stinging or burning the lips. Now there are plethora of new options on the market that lean au natural and offer up a subtle sensation and less sticky finish. (Don’t worry, if you prefer the tried-and-true dramatic plumpers, those are back and better than ever, too.) And I tested them all so you don’t have to.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up the eight best plumpers that you may want to consider before your next injection appointment — and hey, if you’d rather stick with filler (no judgment), use these to bump it up another notch.
So, you’re looking for the best lip plumpers?
➼ Our top picks
➼ More tried-and-true options
➼ Our experts
Our Top Picks
The Overall Best Lip Plumper
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, peppermint, jojoba oil:| Shades: 11 | Cruelty-free: Yes
This gloss shows immediate results without too much pain. It offers up a pretty, semi-sheer finish and comes in six different colors. The plump is sparked by active ingredients like cinnamon and ginger while promoting hydration with hyaluronic acid. For me, it strikes the perfect balance between optimal results and endurable application.
The Most Dramatic Lip Plumper
Key ingredients: Avocado oil, jojoba see oil, soybean oil | Shades: 6 | Cruelty-free: Yes
This lip plumper is not messing around — when they say maximum plump, well, they absolutely mean it. Out of all of the options on this list, this gloss delivered the most noticeable results. With that being said, it’s not for the faint of heart. The sting on the lips (and even around the mouth) was pretty intense for me. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to skip this one.
The Painless Lip Plumper
Key ingredients: Maracuja, superfruit complex, vitamin E | Shades: 16 | Cruelty-free: Yes
This gloss is viral for a reason. The formula relies on maracuja and superfruits for its plumping and nourishing properties. It has an intense cooling sensation upon application, but it doesn’t sting or burn the lips. This gloss also comes in a wider color range than many of its competitors, as well as two different finishes, which is a nice plus if that’s on your list of priorities in a plumper.
Key ingredients: Peptides, ceramide, salicylic acid, shea butter, beeswax | Shades: 16 | Cruelty-free: Yes
This product is a favorite among makeup artists and beauty editors because it acts as both a lip plumper and long-lasting lip treatment. It helps boost hydration and improves color, softness, and smoothness instantly while also providing a natural plumping effect over time. The ingredient list is comparable to that of your most effective anti-aging serums and moisturizers.
More Tried-and-True Options
The Best Bang for Your Buck
Key ingredients: Chili pepper | Shades: 8 | Cruelty-free: No
I’m not going to lie to you, the chile pepper callout on the ingredients list had me nervous, but the application is not too bad. It heats up your lips to achieve a full look, instead of creating a tingling sensation like other plumpers on the list. The color range and glossy finish is pretty, and it certainly does the trick, especially for the lower price tag.
The Best Natural Lip Plumper
Key ingredients: Kelp, oat, green tea, and nourishing oils | Shades: 2 | Cruelty-free: Yes
This gloss is packed with hydrating superfoods and undoubtedly takes a more subtle (and painless) approach to plumping. It still offers up a fuller look and has a silky texture, making the clear gloss perfect to add on top of another colored lip product. But if you’re looking for dramatic results, you’ll want a more intense option than this one.
The Classic Option
Key ingredients: Peptide complex, vitamins A and E | Shades: 4 | Cruelty-free: Yes
Whenever I talk to my friends about lip plumpers, it’s hard for this Buxom gloss to not come up. It has a pretty intense tingle, but you’re guaranteed to see results. This option comes in a range of shimmer finishes, making it a solid pick for a girls’ night out.
The Most Glossy Lip Plumper
Key ingredients: Shea butter, hyaluronic acid | Shades: 16 | Cruelty-free: Yes
Powered by shea butter and hyaluronic acid, this clean gloss is all about hydration to make your lips feel pillowy soft and look glasslike. It’s available in standard and shimmer finishes from clear to shades of pink and red. My only complaint? The texture is quite thick.
The Serum Alternative
Key ingredients: Shea butter, avocado oil, refined kiwi oil, and argan oil | Shades: 20 | Cruelty-free: Yes
I’m an advocate for lip serums, especially for daytime. They offer up the same glossy look as a lip plumper or gloss — without the thick, sticky feeling that I simply don’t want to deal with for more casual occasions. This formula is packed with hydrating actives like shea butter, avocado oil, kiwi oil, and argan oil.
Our Experts
- Hanna Flanagan, Cut Shop writer and editor.
- Kendall Becker, Cut Shop contributor who covers beauty and wellness.
