If you want fuller-looking lips without filler, a lip-plumping gloss, lipstick, or pencil might just be the answer. These over-the-counter volumising products, which can be used to prep the pout pre-makeup application or applied throughout the day for on-the-go plumping, offer a needle-free option for those wanting bigger lips on a budget.
So, what are the options? If you’re not scared by a little spice, there are a lot of tingly lip plumpers on the market, which are often uncomfortable when first applied, and for a few minutes following, but once settled, will give you filler-like results for the next few hours. These work by causing a slight irritation to the lips, increasing blood flow, which in turn, boosts the volume of your lips. As well as clear formulas, which work great as toppers for your lipstick or no make-up days, you can get these in smoking hot shades.
heat's best lip plumpers at a glance:
Best overall lip plumper (Editor's Choice): Too Faced Lip Injection Maximum Plump Lip Plumper, £26 on LookFantastic
Best budget lip plumper: Maybelline Lifter Gloss Plumping Lip Gloss, £9.99 on LookFantastic
Best sting-free lip plumper: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm, £27
Some of our faves include Too Faced’s Lip Injection Maximum Plump Lip Plumper (a cult favourite) as well as Maybelline’s recently launched chilli-infused Plumping Lifter Gloss.
Psst, it’s not as scary or as spicy as it sounds. Granted, those who have sensitive lips might consider something with less ‘stingle’ – like a treatment that plumps over time or a dewy, gloss-balm hybrid that helps lips look juicer. Charlotte Tilbury's new Pillow Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm is also a great choice, as it's more cooling than anything.
Whether you’re ready to bring the heat or not, get ready to transform your lips with our pick of the best lip plumping products to add to your basket right now.
SHOP: The best lip plumpers
Best overall lip plumper (Editor's Choice)
Too Facedwww.lookfantastic.com
For true plumping addicts! This extra-strength gloss gives the lips a subtle pink sheen and immediately gives the appearance of bigger lips, with long-lasting results. It's cult for a reason!
Customer review: "I love this gloss, it enhances your lips natural colour and gives a long lasting plump. I also like to put it just over the edges of my lip line to enhance the plumping effect. The tingle really isn't that bad and is not at all painful."
Pros
- Gives maximum volume
- Enhances natural lip colour
Cons
- Not for sensitive lips
Best budget lip plumper
Maybellinewww.lookfantastic.com
If you're a fan of Maybelline's OG Lifter Gloss, you have to try the volumising version. It's has the same glass-like shine, only with added plumping perks. Plus, it comes in a bunch of different shades.
Pros
- Available in eight different shades
- Added hyaluronic acid hydrates the lips
Cons
- Quite spicy
Best sting-free lip plumper
Charlotte Tilburywww.charlottetilbury.com
Available in two, universally-flattering, pinky, Pillow Talk shades, Charlotte Tilbury's new gloss plumps the pout with a cooling effect, as opposed to a burning sensation. The packaging is super luxe, as always, and the applicator is super easy to use, coating the lips in a smooth, glass-like sheen. Love!
Best for range of shades
NYX Professional Makeupwww.lookfantastic.com
No need for multiple layers with this plumping gloss. Enriched with ginger extract, it gives hi-shine vibes and instant colour in just one swipe – not to mention, volume and definition that lasts for hours.
Pros
- 19 different shades to pick from
- Non-sticky
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Very spicy
Best lip plumping primer
Project Lipwww.lookfantastic.com
Ideal for applying before make-up to prep your pout ahead of lipstick, gloss – or whatever is your go-to lip combo, this plumping primer is completely clear, so you can even wear it for no make-up days.
Pros
- Good for no make-up days
- Gives an extreme plumping effect
Cons
- Tingles more than most plumpers
Best lip plumping pencil
Too Faced www.cultbeauty.co.uk
While over-lining the lips can give a fuller look, this plumping pencil does all the hard work for you, boosting volume for up to 8 hours with just a slight tingle. It’s smudge-proof too. Pucker up!
Pros
- Smudge-proof
- Good for matte lip lovers
- Vegan formula
Cons
- Could have a bigger shade range
Best pro-age plumper
Plump It! Collagen Lip Plumperwww.prettylittlething.com
Not only does this plumper give you a naturally-boosted, youthful lip look, but it's formulated with a tripeptide that boosts collagen production. If you've noticed your lips becoming less full over time, this is for you!
Pros
- Boosts collagen production
Cons
- Only available in clear
Best for lasting results over time
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Specially designed to increase lip volume over time, with zero stinging or tingling, this gentle, plumping balm nourishing lips with a blend of mango seed and shea butter, plus a plethora of plant-powered oils.
Pros
- Plumps over time
- Nourishing for the lips
Cons
- Not those wanting instant or extreme results