What is Lip Plumper Actually Doing and Why Should Redheads Be Careful?

If you’re someone who has thin lips or just wants fuller lips, you have a few options. You can use makeup to overline and give the appearance of fuller lips, or you can do something to actually make your lips fuller. For some, this means getting lip injections from a plastic surgeon. However, this isn’t an option or even a desire for everyone. A common alternative to cosmetic lip injections is lip plumping products. People use lip plumper products primarily to enhance the appearance of their lips by making them look fuller and more voluminous. Lip plumpers typically contain ingredients like menthol, cinnamon, or peptides that cause temporary swelling or irritation, resulting in a plumper appearance. 

Well, redheads might need to be careful when using lip plumper products. Here’s why:

The truth is that lip-plumping products achieve the swell by temporarily irritating the lip and causing a reaction. Most lip plumpers stimulate the blood flow to the area. This irritation typically results in a tingling or slightly burning sensation, which some people find uncomfortable but others may enjoy for the temporary plumping effect it provides. It’s similar to the way that spicy foods can cause your lips to change color and become swollen and tender. 

While the majority of lip-plumping glosses and topical products are relatively safe, they could be something redheads should be cautious of. Redheads are more likely to have sensitive skin, and because lip-plumping products are intended to cause a reaction, they may be getting more than they bargained for. Lip plumpers can cause redness and swelling around the mouth if not applied neatly, and redheads with extra sensitive skin could even cause over-swelling, rashes, or other kinds of breakouts. 

There are alternatives to lip plumpers:

Apart from lip plumpers, there are several other products and methods that can help plump your lips:

1. Lip Scrubs: Exfoliating your lips with a gentle lip scrub can help remove dead skin cells, leaving your lips smoother and slightly plumper.

2. Lip Masks: Similar to face masks, lip masks are designed to hydrate and plump the lips. Look for masks containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or collagen.

3. Lip Serums: Lip serums often contain ingredients like peptides and antioxidants that can help improve lip texture and fullness over time.

4. Lip Oils: These products provide hydration and nourishment to the lips, making them appear fuller and more supple.

5. Cinnamon or Peppermint Oil: These essential oils can temporarily plump the lips by increasing blood flow to the area. However, they can also cause irritation in some individuals, so use them with caution.

6. DIY Lip Plumping Masks: You can create your own lip plumping masks using natural ingredients like honey, cinnamon, and coconut oil. These can help hydrate and plump the lips temporarily.

7. Lip Plumping Gloss: Some lip glosses contain ingredients like menthol or capsaicin that create a tingling sensation and temporarily plump the lips.

Remember to be cautious when trying new products or methods, especially if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test first and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Don’t forget to spot test 

This doesn’t mean redheads can’t enjoy plumping products, but be sure you spot-test and apply carefully. Redheads may not know they have sensitivity to something until it’s applied to the skin.

To patch test a lip plumper:

1. Choose a small, inconspicuous area on your skin, such as the inside of your wrist or elbow.

2. Cleanse the area with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.

3. Apply a small amount of the lip plumper to the test area.

4. Leave the product on for at least 24 hours without washing it off.

5. Monitor the test area for any signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or swelling.

6. If you experience any adverse reactions, wash the area with water and discontinue use of the product.

7. If no irritation occurs after 24 hours, the lip plumper is likely safe for use on your lips.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivities.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

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