Photo by Ashley Piszek on Unsplash

When it comes to sun protection, raise your hand if your [SPF usage](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lightweight-non-greasy-sunscreens-to-wear-indoors) includes the lips. We know that most products focus on enhancing and drawing attention to the lower third but if the pout is not a part of your sun care regime, it’s time to reconsider your approach without sacrificing quality. But, why is that important, you may ask? Due to the skin being thinner and thereby more delicate on the [lips](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lip-oils), the area is susceptible to sun damage, a cold sore breakout, sunburns, and  skin cancer. And, with the UVA and UVB rays being even more aggressive in the summer (hello, longer days), it’s always a good idea to apply a protective shield. 

## **The Best SPF Lip Products** 
Now, we know that it may be hard to trade your favorite lip product for one that’s [SPF-powered](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-sunscreens-for-men) but when it comes to the latest innovations, we can ensure the formulas are anything but boring. So, whether you’re in the market for a hydrating lip oil, a non-greasy balm, or a colorful gloss, there’s plenty to choose from. 

### **COTZ Lip Balm SPF 45 Tinted** 
![AEDIT - cotz lip balm](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3dwc0o0Qfd1kNMuL3IIzif/cb12ad79a59aef4d3fa47f247f7514f2/cotz_lip_balm.jpg)

For those looking for a quick top-up of protection via lip balm, this tinted option is broad spectrum sans white cast – yes, really. Combining mineral powerhouse zinc oxide with a subtle kiwi ginger flavor, it’s great alone or under your favorite gloss. $9 [cotzskincare.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcotzskincare.com%2Fproducts%2Fcotz-lip-balm-spf-45%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D2ae51a1b1%26_ss%3Dr)

### **Naked Sunday’s Glo + Go Hydrating Lip Oil SPF 50+**
  ![AEDIT - naked sundays](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1Iz8lV8tib2nwtQISIa7rF/66f1870ab2336a1eaa540d5cecaf32a7/naked_sundays.png)
The search for a lip oil that does double duty is over because Naked Sunday’s has perfected the formulation with this hydrating two-in-one option. The lightweight lip oil is not only a sublime shade of pink that boasts a high SPF, but it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients like vitamin C, amino acids, and vitamin E. Consider us in love. $22, [nakedsundays.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.nakedsundays.com%2Fcollections%2Fall%2Fproducts%2Fglow-go-hydrating-lip-oil-spf50%3Fvariant%3D42742825812220)

### **Supergoop! Lipscreen Shine SPF 40** 
  ![AEDIT - Supergoop Lip](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2eXX0TM8np8lJttfnUjOXp/a1afcdeb6271cade4422b2a51bb29d9a/Screen_Shot_2022-07-14_at_12.13.08_PM.png)
If you grew up in an era when lip gloss was king, you may be wary of overtly glossy (read: sticky) products but worry no more. This clear gloss offers broad spectrum protection while leaving your lips silky smooth with its use of shea butter, coconut, and sesame seed oils alongside grape seed extract for an extra antioxidant boost. $22, [supergoop.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsupergoop.com%2Fproducts%2Fshine-on-lip-screen)

### **EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 36**
  ![AEDIT - EltaMD Lip](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4QebyPJyXzSEdPPJV3eWKZ/876019eee7363d4f42fadf7331919d45/eltamd.jpg)
For those who experience dry and chapped lips even in the summer months, this moisturizing lip balm is a soothing and skin-boosting relief. Keep the rays away with the broad spectrum protection and your lips healthy via a handful of antioxidants. $13, [eltamd.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Feltamd.com%2Fproducts%2Fuv-lip-balm-broad-spectrum-spf-36)

### **ImageMD Restoring Lip Enhancer SPF 15** 
  ![AEDIT - imagemd](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1Fkfrkn8L5HcH9cIKKAErq/b23097be12694bce41575eb472bee270/imagemd.png)
It’s hard not to rave about this formula because it’s that good. Developed by a plastic surgeon, this nourishing formula contains avocado oil, a peptide complex, and marine collagen filling spheres to plump up your pout. $33, [imageskincare.co](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fimageskincare.com%2Fproducts%2Fronert-md-restoring-collagen-lip-enhancer-spf-15%3F_pos%3D3%26_sid%3D163115f56%26_ss%3Dr)

### **Coola Mineral Liplux® Organic Tinted Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 30**
   ![AEDIT - Coola Lip](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3a4LrGZlQaMNQZ3VdGLTkw/a53342660ef6fc0041767d5e0ec67aa3/Coola_Lip.png)
Some products are so good, you forget they’re also good for you. Consider this lp balm one of those. Available in multiple shades that layer perfectly alone (or together) the silky smooth balm provides a hydrating finish to any lip. These are mainstays even after the sun’s gone down. $18, [coola.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcoola.com%2Fproducts%2Fmineral-liplux-spf-30%3Fvariant%3D10671132246058)

### **Colorescience® Lip Shine**

![AEDI - colorescience](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1mUzv9TU68Xd9wmpoXjaqJ/682c9311174954e67e46144f65d70d7a/colorescience.jpg)
We often turn to Colorescence for many of our SPF needs and when it comes to a protective gloss, they did not disappoint. Not only are the various shades optimized to give the lips a glossy finish, but they are also packed with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. Who said sun care had to be boring? $23, [colorescience.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.colorescience.com%2Fproducts%2Flip-shine-spf-35)  


*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*




Beauty

Sun damage doesn’t stop at the skin so here are products that will keep your pout pretty and protected. 

7 SPF Lip Products To Try 

7 Lip Products With SPF To Keep Your Pout Protected	

cesar-la-rosa-sGZwj1Nmq8s-unsplash

If you would have asked me a couple of years ago what one aesthetic treatment I would absolutely not be interested in, I wouldn’t have hesitated to say [lip filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers). I had nothing personally against the minimally invasive lip enhancement procedure – and I had certainly interviewed enough top injectors who sang its praises – but, for me, I just couldn’t get past the fact that it felt like every influencer and reality TV personality increasingly had a mouth that looked all-too-similar and all-too-supernatural. 

I am usually the first person to tell you that aesthetic medicine has long gotten a bad rap because we tend to only spot the overly augmented or unnatural work while more subtle tweaks go unnoticed, save for recognizing that the person looks great. Lip filler is but another cosmetic treatment that falls into this trap. Yes, we’ve all seen a lot of so-called ‘duck lips’ or ‘trout mouths’ that may or may not be your taste (personally, I am in the ‘nay’ camp). But we’ve also all seen a lot of plush pouts that are [perfectly proportional](https://aedit.com/aedition/facial-harmony-in-aesthetic-medicine) to the rest of the face – and there is a good chance that those lips are filled, too.

I sit here today eating a helping of humble pie (what’s that they say about never saying never?) as I write this article about why I decided to fill my lips, and, better yet, why I am so happy with the results that hardly anyone has noticed. In early April, New York City-based board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon [David Shafer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/david-shafer-md-153), injected me with one syringe [Juvéderm® Volbella XC](https://aedit.com/procedure/juvederm) (split between my upper and lower lip), and I’ve been spending the last couple of months thinking about what I learned from the experience that might benefit others who are on the fence about going under the needle. 

Below, I’ve compiled a list of the six things I believe are useful to know if you are considering getting lip filler. Read on to get the scoop and to see my before and after photos.

### **1. Not All Lip Fillers Are the Same**
If you are a regular reader of The AEDITION, you’ve likely seen our breakdowns of the different types of [cosmetic injectables](https://aedit.com/procedure/dermal-filler-and-injectable-solutions) that exist. Within the filler category, there are [hyaluronic acid (HA)-based and biostimulatory options](https://aedit.com/aedition/hyaluronic-acid-filler-vs-biostimulatory-injectables). Within the HA family, there are an array of brands (think: Juvéderm®, [Restylane®](https://aedit.com/procedure/restylane), [Belotero®](https://aedit.com/procedure/belotero), etc.). And within each brand, there are a variety of different products that have been designed and, in on-label use cases, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific purposes. “Juvéderm® Ultra XC is the original hyaluronic acid filler FDA approved for lip augmentation,” Dr. Shafer says. “It works well for plumping and adding volume.”

Juvéderm® Ultra XC may be the OG, but it has a younger sister that can treat the lips in a similar but different way. “Volbella is a newer generation hyaluronic acid filler in the Juvéderm® family that is good for smoothing and hydrating,” he shares. “As Volbella is a smoothing filler, it is also great for softening perioral lines such as the vertical ‘smoker lines’ on the upper lip and any creases which have formed from years of dynamic lines around the mouth, such as the smile lines.”
 
While each filler can be used individually (I only got Volbella), they can also be paired together to better treat a patient’s aesthetic concerns. “I prefer a hybrid lip augmentation technique with both Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Volbella XC to both plump and smooth,” Dr. Shafer says. This allows him to “achieve the best results.”

Why am I bringing this up? You don’t need to walk into your injector’s office demanding a certain type of filler — they are the expert and, during a [consultation](https://aedit.com/aedition/questions-to-ask-your-doctor-during-plastic-surgery-consultation), will be able to share what brand and product is suited for your anatomy and aesthetic goals. Even so, it’s helpful to know that lip filler (and filler in general) is not one size fits all. What’s best for your friend or sister or some person you saw on TikTok, may not be best for you. You should feel free to ask your provider what types of filler they offer, why they think something is right for you, and what you can expect from the result. 

### **2. You Can Maintain Your Lip Shape**
This was a big one for me. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to [lip shape](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-shape) and [lip size](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size), and some people turn to lip filler to address both. Personally, I’ve always liked the shape of my lips. I naturally have a pretty well-defined [cupid’s bow](https://aedit.com/aedition/cupids-bow-cosmetic-surgery-fillers-for-lip-augmentation), as well as upper and lower lips that gradually taper out to the corners. Overall, I felt like my mouth fit my face, but the lips themselves were a little thinner than I wanted them to be (especially my top lip). 

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6gwjkcb34StQ85wwJBthk7/0353be5dba7684be311bdbb1e490628e/MegLipBA-1.jpg}>
  The writer before (*left*) and 72 hours after (*right*) her lip filler treatment.
</CaptionImg>

Because I was overly fixating on some of the more obviously augmented pouts that populate my social media feed, I was concerned that I was going to have to sacrifice the shape of my lips to enhance the size. I thought I would automatically end up with a kind of elongated and tubular upper lip shape that some people might like — it’s just not what I was going for. I am pleased to report that, in the hands of a skilled injector, the shape of your lips can be preserved while subtly enhancing the volume. 

The key: Be clear about what you want and don’t be shy when communicating it to your provider. Natural-looking lips (like any facial feature) are about [proportion](https://aedit.com/aedition/plastic-surgery-results-are-about-proportion-not-perfection), so bringing in a picture of Angelina Jolie’s plush pout isn’t particularly helpful. Instead, telling your injector exactly what you like about your lips and exactly what you don’t is the best way for them to get an understanding of what you are looking for. They will be able to make recommendations and select the proper filler for you from there. 

### **3. The Injections Don’t Hurt**
The lips are one of the most sensitive parts of the body, which means the thought of putting needles into them isn’t particularly pleasant. But here’s the thing about lip filler injections – they don’t hurt (and [you don’t just have to take my word for it](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-to-know-before-getting-lip-filler-for-the-first-time)). Dr. Shafer put [numbing cream](https://aedit.com/aedition/numbing-cream-breakouts) on my lips and left it on as he prepared the filler and injected Botox® into my forehead, glabellar lines, and crow’s feet (I got both injectable treatments done at the same appointment). After about 10 minutes, he wiped off the residue and began injecting my lips. It was a total of four pricks, and, between the numbing cream and the lidocaine in the filler, I didn’t feel anything more than a poke. 

Before sending me on my way, Dr. Shafer told me to massage or rub my lips together more than normal in the coming hours and days to “ensure a smooth result.” While the anesthetics were all still active, this was no problem. As they wore off, however, this became a bit more challenging. The injections themselves were painless, but I did experience some mild discomfort as the day went on. I saw Dr. Shafer in the morning, and, by late afternoon, my lips were tender to the touch – and rub. The act of pressing them together induced a stingy, bruise-like sensation (though I didn’t have any visible bruising). By the next morning, this tenderness had greatly subsided; by the end of the day, it had all but disappeared. At that point, I went back to rubbing them together again as per his instructions.

Aside from the massaging, Dr. Shafer suggests avoiding straws for several days after injections. Kissing is okay after 24 hours, he says, and there is no restriction on exercise. Another thing to keep in mind: Salty food may make swelling last longer, which leads me to…

### **4. The Swelling Is Real, But Short Lived**
The discomfort I experienced in the hours proceeding the filler injections was accompanied by [swelling](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-minimize-swelling-after-cosmetic-surgery). “After any injection, patients may have swelling and possible bruising,” Dr. Shafer says. “Swelling can last 24 to 48 hours and usually is quite subtle.” As my lips got more tender, they also got firmer and a little bigger. The swelling seemed to peak around 7 p.m. (about eight hours after my appointment). When I woke up the following morning, the swelling had mostly dissipated and it continued to over the course of the next day or two.

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4b2SMwwXpk1Si3XVcBXEn4/efb7340da49b07034c3df20de18f3d2e/MegLipSwelling.jpeg}>
  From left: The writer immediately after, 6 hours after, and 24 hours after her lip filler treatment.
</CaptionImg>

Dr. Shafer gave me an ice pack immediately after he finished injecting me, and I used it on both the areas he treated with Botox® and my lips. I probably did about 10 minutes of icing in the office and then another 10 to 15 minutes when I got home an hour later. I drank an iced beverage – without a straw! – most of the afternoon, and the cold felt good against my lips. When I noticed the discomfort and swelling start to set in around 5 p.m., I reached for the ice pack again and alternated 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off for about an hour. I don’t know if it did anything to reduce the swelling, but it definitely helped ease the sting.

I didn’t experience any [bruising](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-bruising-after-lasers-filler-botox), and Dr. Shafer says it’s rare. “If it does [occur], then it may take five to seven days to resolve,” he shares. “We offer complimentary laser treatments for any patient with a bruise to help it resolve faster.”

### **5. You’ll Need Less Lip Balm**
I’ve heard anecdotes about HA fillers hydrating the lips, but this one still surprised me. While my lips don’t get particularly chapped, I am the type of person who needs to have something slathered on them at all times for risk of having them feel dry (I can’t handle that sensation). I have a stable of balms, oils, and masks I rotate between throughout the day and overnight, and, while I still reach for them, I've realized that it’s now more out of habit than necessity. 

Since I got my lips filled, they rarely, if ever, look or feel dry. Because of the fact that it’s largely comprised of [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) (a humectant that draws moisture into the skin and can hold 1,000-times its weight in water), Juvéderm® Volbella XC is known as a ‘hydrating’ filler. In my experience, that has meant that my Volbella-infused lips have a perpetually smooth appearance and a perpetually moisturized feel. I still love lip balm and apply it often, but I’ve been opting for peptide- and HA-based formulas – like the [PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Lip Booster](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fpca-skin-hyaluronic-acid-lip-booster-0.24oz%2F12039671.html) and [Theraderm Anti-Aging Lip Complex](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheraderm.net%2Fanti-aging-lip-complex) – that have a subtle plumping quality to further enhance my results.

### **6. Nobody Has to Notice**
Depending on your aesthetic goals, the idea that no one really noticed you got lip filler might not be appealing. For me ([much like when I got nasolabial fold filler late last year](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-get-nasolabial-fold-filler)), it’s the best part. My lips are subtly enhanced in a way that I relish every time I look in the mirror or smile in a photo, but not in a way that has had any of the people I see most often asking me what I had done. My mom noticed the difference; most of my coworkers did not. 

I obviously have Dr. Shafer to thank for (1) really listening to my concerns and (2) choosing the right filler and injection technique for me. “As Volbella is a soft, smoothing hyaluronic acid filler with a less plumping effect, it is good for first-time users who are looking for subtle effects,” he shares. “I tend to be conservative, as we can always add more later.” Down the line, I could also consider trying a different combination of products. “Once a patient sees the potential of lip fillers, the hybrid technique is usually best for subsequent treatments,” he explains. “It's good to start out subtle and then get more aggressive with treatments depending on the patient's goals.”

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3Djvs7bTROxfR7s1s1arf4/4a9a5407348e4198d42f9e538eea7082/MegLipBA-2.jpg}>
  From left: The writer before, 72 hours after, and one month after her lip filler treatment.
</CaptionImg>

Two months after treatment, I am thrilled with the results. As for how long I can expect to enjoy them, every patient is different because every body metabolizes filler differently. With that said, Dr. Shafer offers a simple way to think about scheduling touch ups. “For most patients, we set them on a schedule of Botox® every four months and fillers every other Botox® appointment, so every eight months,” he shares. 

This cadence is ideal for those who don’t want a lapse in their look. “There is a difference between how long the filler is present versus how long the clinical effect is apparent,” Dr. Shafer explains. “That is why you may hear a filler lasts 12 to 18 months, but, in reality, the next treatment would be sooner than that.” Think about it like topping off your gas tank. “Similar to when you fill your gas tank, you don't usually wait for it to go to empty before filling the tank back up,” he says.

## **The Takeaway**
If you had told me a few years ago that I would be writing an article about my experience getting lip filler, I wouldn't have believed you. But the more I’ve learned about the treatment, the more I realized that it could be minimally invasive in more ways than one. Sure, the results are immediate with little pain and no downtime. Even better, however, is the fact that the benefits can be truly customized to your anatomy and aesthetic goals. It all comes down to being clear about what you want and visiting a highly skilled injector. 

If you are on the fence and curious about how you would look with lip filler, [The AEDITOR](https://apps.apple.com/US/app/id1322246202?mt=8) — the patented 3D Aesthetic Simulator available exclusively in the AEDIT iOS app — allows you to ‘try on’ the procedure and instantly visualize medically accurate results. [Download the app here](https://apps.apple.com/US/app/id1322246202?mt=8), and, once you give it a try, consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine if lip filler is the right treatment option for you.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Patient Perspective

A beauty editor shares her experience getting Juvéderm® Volbella XC lip filler for subtle lip augmentation.

What It's Like To Get Lip Filler: Before And After Photos

I Swore I Would Never Get Lip Filler – And Now I Wish I Tried It Sooner

engin-akyurt-4aSQwMectnc-unsplash

Lip augmentation via hyaluronic acid-based fillers can [add volume](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size) and/or [enhance the shape](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-shape) of the lips to create a pout that best flatters your face. It’s a quick and temporary procedure (results last six to 12 months) with minimal downtime (save for a bit of swelling and bruising) that can immediately and dramatically improve the smile and the overall proportions of the face. But no aesthetic treatment is without [risk](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-cosmetic-surgery-complications), and lip enhancing procedures via filler are under more scrutiny than ever before for migration – or what TikTok calls “the filler mustache.” And the number of videos about fillers seemingly moving out of place proves it's more common than many of us realize. 

In these clips, [lip filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) patients show how the product has moved into a space in the lips near the white roll (the small white line at the top of the lip) due to poor injection technique, too much product, the lip's natural anatomy, or the wrong filler. The effect can happen in other areas of the face too – like [under the eyes](https://aedit.com/aedition/under-eye-filler-pros-cons) – but the lips are especially prone to experiencing this spreading effect. Once the filler shifts out of place, the lip (often the top one) appears duck-like or distorted, which is a look no one wants.

If you’re questioning whether your filler is migrating, here’s everything you need to know to look for and how to restore a more natural-looking appearance.

## **Why Filler Migrates**
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are gels with a liquid-y formulation. The basic rules of science tell us that any liquid can move. However, migrating filler isn't necessarily an immediate effect. Instead, it’s one that happens gradually over weeks, if not months or even years. All ‘temporary’ fillers aren't necessarily temporary, and some mysteriously stay in these particular areas, says [Paul Jarrod Frank, MD](https://www.instagram.com/drpauljarrodfrank/?hl=en), a board certified dermatologist and founder of PFRANDMD in New York City. The filler can move in virtually any direction, although it usually transpires more in the upper lip because of constant movement and motion (think: smiling and talking). As a result, there can be a strange appearance to the upper lips with visible product sitting in the area right above the lip, which causes it to protrude outward.

When fillers shift out of their intended place, the result is unnatural-looking lips that jut out or look fuller in unexpected areas, says [Samuel Hahn, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/samuel-hahn-md-20403), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Cockeysville, MD. The displacement also often gives the appearance of bulging or excessive fullness above or below the pink portion of the lip called the vermillion border, which causes a prominent shelf or unnatural roll. In addition, some types of filler are more apt to push up into that white space than others.

So, how can someone know if their fill has migrated or if it's just a case of bad lip injections? First, look at the border of the lip and if it lacks a crisp perimeter between the lip edge and above or below the lip border or a distended area across the upper lip cutaneous (vermillion border and philtrum), says [Madhuri Chadha, MD](https://drmadh.com/), the founder of Chadha MD Aesthetics in Beverly Hills. “This is what gives the effect of 'trout pout,’” she adds. Other indicators to look for include the appearance of prolonged swelling or difficulty closing the lips. If the white part of the lip looks like a duckbill, then the filler has shifted and it's not over-projection, adds [Ava Shamban, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/ava-shamban-md-2325), a board certified dermatologist in Santa Monica, CA.

Filler can migrate for one or more reasons. The most common include: 

### **1. Bad Placement**
Migrating filler can happen when injectable products are placed into the wrong plane. As Dr. Hahn explains, a thin plane – known as the pars marginalis and pars peripherals – separates the lip muscle (orbicularis oris), and injecting it into the wrong plane can allow the filler to move. By placing more product into the lip, the path of least resistance for the filler is into the lip's peripheral tissues, leading to a deviation, he adds. Therefore, the depth of the filler placement and the [needles used](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-needles-used-for-cosmetic-injectables-botox-filler) are essential to a successful outcome.

Depending on where the filler is injected, it can “migrate” into the white roll and even further into the cutaneous or white lip, Dr. Shamban says. “So, the truth is, the product doesn't usually ‘migrate’ but results outside the area, which is more about not placing it into the tissue at the location or depth it should be,” she explains.
 
Injectors use many techniques to inject the lips depending on the look a patient wants, their natural lip shape and volume, and the inherent structure of the lips. Some buzzy injection techniques, like tenting and [Russian lips](https://aedit.com/aedition/biggest-non-surgical-aesthetics-trends-of-2022), which create more volume in the middle of the lips for a heart-shaped appearance, promise to limit the incidence of displaced filler. However, there's no foolproof method other than being mindful of how and where to place the product. “The result of lip injections is directly related to the technique and the original shape and size of the lip,” Dr. Shamban notes.

### **2. Over-Injecting**
Filler migration can also occur by [over-injecting](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermal-filler-fatigue) the lips. Movement can happen if too much filler is placed at once. Though no set amount causes a migrating-like effect – even small amounts can shift – it's best to stage out significant volume enhancement over time. But, as Dr. Frank explains, the features on the face are not that different than something like our shoe size. You can only fit so much into a specific space. “People expect to do more with filler than can be accomplished with their natural anatomy,” he says. “[Overfilled](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-correct-overfilled-facial-features) lips, nasolabial folds, and cheeks are due to overaggressive filler.”

Injecting too much product into the lips forcefully stretches them out to accommodate the additional volume. Since the tissue can’t hold the filler properly, it starts getting into the neighboring areas. Injectors can control how much filler is going into any area, which is why it’s essential to take a less-is-more approach. Dr. Shamban says that using specific techniques, like microdosing the lips over several appointments, allows the product to adapt to the tissue. “We can assess the lip architecture to improve the look and appearance of size and shape or build the structure around the lips for more of a 3D appearance without overfilling the lips,” she shares.

### **3. The Wrong Product**
Not all fillers are the same, and using the wrong product can allow it to shift beyond the placement area. Your injector must use the appropriate filler to ensure that it stays put. For starters, only hyaluronic acid-based fillers belong in the lips — never [Radiesse®](https://aedit.com/procedure/radiesse) or [Sculptra®](https://aedit.com/procedure/sculptra). When it comes to HA, “there is no best hyaluronic acid filler, but there are ones that are more amenable to certain areas of the face to reduce lumping, bumping, and migration,” Dr. Frank notes. 

### **4. Inflammation**
Inflammation can occur as a natural response to injecting a foreign substance into the face. While an inflammatory response isn’t as common as poor technique or too much product as the reason behind filler that extends beyond the lips, it can happen. “There can be temporary inflammation, swelling, or a [hematoma](https://aedit.com/aedition/risk-of-hematoma-after-facelift) at the injection site,” Dr. Shamban says. Additionally, “it can also be attributed to a patient's reaction or an allergy to a filler, although this is rarer and an autoimmune response,” Dr. Chadha adds.

The bulging effect is most evident when smiling or puckering the lips, but it can also be noticeable when the mouth is at rest. Some patients complain of a stretched-out feeling accompanied by discomfort depending on where the filler has moved. Although drifting filler is often more cosmetic than anything, Dr. Chadha says it’s important to address it quickly if [certain symptoms](https://aedit.com/aedition/risk-of-vascular-occlusion-after-dermal-filler) are present. “Look for changes in color, skin-blanching, pain, increased pressure, and continued swelling, all of which can cause concern and should be addressed by a medical professional,” she says. If the provider is not well trained, practicing proper protocol, or ensuring a sanitary environment, Dr. Shamban says infection is also a concern. 

## **How to Fix Migrating Filler**
There are two ways to fix migrated fillers: 

1. Dissolve them with hyaluronidase
2. Wait for them to break down and dissipate on their own

For a number of reasons, the former is usually preferred. Dr. Frank says the best way to deal with migration is to dissolve the filler with [hyaluronidase](https://aedit.com/procedure/hyaluronidase) (an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid gels). In just a few hours, hyaluronidase softens the filler and returns the lips to a more natural shape, projection, and size. Not all of the filler necessarily needs to be removed. If it's just one area that shows signs of migration, it can be spot treated. Depending on the amount of movement, the lips may need to recover before injecting them again (if you decide to) to prevent it all from happening again. For most, that’s a four- to six-week process. Patients that opt to dissolve and refill their lips need to go slow and avoid overfilling, “as this will open up the previous tissue planes that allowed for migration,” Dr. Hahn cautions.

Filler will naturally degrade for patients who do not wish to [dissolve with hyaluronidase](https://aedit.com/aedition/hyaluronidase-to-dissolve-dermal-filler). Needless to say, this is a much longer process because the body may not entirely break down all of the product in the lips. It can take, on average, anywhere from six to 12 months to dematerialize. Going this route doesn’t mean every last drop of filler will be gone. 

Migrated filler can be a one-off experience for some people and a constant problem for others. “That means you may have to consider not treating that area with filler,” Dr. Frank says. “There are people who have a naturally higher propensity to migration due to their anatomy.” You may also want to look for a better-trained provider, as Dr. Shamban suggests. “Sometimes, the area around the lip needs to be filled for structure rather than the lip itself,” she notes. A skilled injector can make significant differences and improvements with the proper support structure.

## **Can Filler Migration Be Prevented?**
There is no perfect solution, but the best way to make sure that lip filler stays where you want it to is to be injected by a highly skilled provider who specializes in the procedure. “Generally, be concerned about your provider's experience level,” Dr. Shamban says. “The best practice is to do your due diligence and research your injector.” That includes their training and [body of work](https://aedit.com/aedition/importance-of-before-and-after-photos-in-plastic-surgery). “Their aesthetic approach and results should be individualized and aligned with your look and aesthetics,” she notes. 

While [choosing the right provider](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist) is, first and foremost, key to a successful outcome, there are other factors to be aware of when it comes to minimizing the potential for filler migration:

1. **Understand what your injector is putting into your lips.** The only appropriate type of filler to inject into the lips is hyaluronic acid-based product, like those within the [Juvéderm®](https://aedit.com/procedure/juvederm) and [Restylane®](https://aedit.com/procedure/restylane) families. Although many different injectable brands exist, only HA fillers are safe for this area. Biostimulatory injectables, including Radiesse® and Sculptra®, do not belong in the lips.
2. **Appropriate filler viscosity plays a role.** Using the wrong filler in the wrong plane of the lips can cause the product to shift. “The viscosity and density of the filler are important,” Dr. Hahn says. “In general, less dense, less viscous fillers are less likely to migrate.” Only your provider (not you) will know what filler best suits your lips.
3. **Take a less is more approach.** If you want fuller lips than what genetics blessed you with, a slow and steady approach is always best. “It is better to do little bits at a time rather than overstuff an area,” says Dr. Frank, who also suggests that injectors be attentive to make sure the [patients' expectations](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-plastic-surgeons-balance-patients-cosmetic-surgery-desires-and-safety) are appropriate. “Follow-up and retreatments are beneficial,” he shares. “It's also helpful to check in with patients every few months anyway to assess the work done whether they are getting refilled or not because even the best placement of filler sometimes does change in terms of positioning.”
4. **The injection technique is paramount.** Probably the most crucial rule for your injector must follow is product placement. Dr. Hahn says that while the amount of filler injected plays a role, technique and placement of the filler are equally important to avoid migration. For example, he says it's essential to inject filler close to or at the vermillion border, which precisely outlines the [cupid's bow](https://aedit.com/aedition/cupids-bow-cosmetic-surgery-fillers-for-lip-augmentation). Otherwise, the filler can migrate into the surrounding tissue. “In general, there is an increased chance for filler migration as you inject more filler,” he adds.

## **Beyond Filler**
If migrating filler becomes a recurring issue or you are looking to avoid the threat all together, there are other surgical and non-surgical lip-enhancing procedures to consider:

- **Lip Lift**: The trending [lip lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/subnasal-bull-horn-lip-lift) procedure is a permanent way to enhance the lips. The procedure shortens the length between the upper lip and nose to show more of the pink part of the lips. Keep in mind that addressing the shape of the lips is more the objective here than adding volume, which your surgeon can accomplish by adding fat during the surgery. 
- **Lip Flip**: A lip flip utilizes neuromodulators (i.e. [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox)) rather than filler (although many injectors choose to combine the injectables). Dr. Shamban says lip flips can be done in a similar but different way to improve lip size and shape. By relaxing the muscles around the lips, the lips flip (hence the name) out to make them a little poutier. The technique is also helpful for those with thin lips or a gummy smile.
- **Fat Transfer**: Autologous fat can be used to add volume and fullness to the lips when they’re inherently thin, prone to migrating filler, or just not as responsive as you’d like them to be to synthetic injections. [Lip augmentation with fat transfer](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-augmentation-with-fat-transfer) is usually performed alongside other surgical procedures (like a [facelift](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-procedures-to-combine-with-a-facelift)), since liposuction on a donor site must first be performed to harvest the fat. After the initial absorption period, the results are long-lasting and  the shape and volume can be corrected. 

## **The Takeaway**
If you think your lip filler is on the move – be it days, weeks, months, or years after your injections – you may not be imagining it. Fillers that are incorrectly injected or not suitable for the lips can end up migrating outside the vermillion border, resulting in a ‘trout mouth’ or ‘duck lip’ appearance. While there is no surefire way to prevent this from happening, choosing an expert injector is one of the best ways to ensure an optimal outcome.

Expert Opinion

Dermatologists and plastic surgeons explain why your lip filler might be moving and how to correct it.

Why Lip Filler Migrates And How To Fix It

 Why Lip Filler Migrates And How To Handle It

thanh-duc-phan-i5R8hbZFDdc-unsplash

Similar to the fashion world, the sphere of beauty trends often comes full circle. Looks that were once en vogue quickly become passe, only to experience a second coming that is accompanied by a modern-day adaptation of some sort. Who would have thought that some of the most beloved ‘90s trends – like the bucket hat, French manicure, and antenna hair – would ever see the light of day again? But, alas, they are. 

Another once-popular beauty trend is currently enjoying a revival is [permanent makeup](https://aedit.com/aedition/expert-guide-to-permanent-makeup-cosmetic-tattoo-microblading). Although, this time around, it's all about natural-looking, semi-permanent color. Case in point: Lip blushing. Here’s what you need to know about the pout-perfecting treatment.

## **The Lip Blushing Boom**
These days, pared-down makeup routines and I-woke-up-like-this looks (hi, [no-makeup makeup](https://aedit.com/aedition/tips-for-a-no-makeup-makeup-look)) are what many women are after. With little need to ‘apply your face’ every morning, it's no wonder why long-lasting, pigment-depositing treatments — like [microblading](https://aedit.com/procedure/microblading) for the brows — stay at the top of the beauty to-do list. And the lips are not to be excluded. According to Miranda Cyre, a lip blushing expert at [Studio Sashiko](https://studiosashiko.com/) in Los Angeles, cosmetic tattooing is popular. “This is the era of low maintenance, enhancing one's natural beauty, and confidence boosting, which is what a lot of my clients tell me they receive with this service,” she says.

Often paired with lip filler for balance and harmony (although not performed simultaneously, nor is it necessary to have filler), [lip blushing](https://aedit.com/procedure/cosmetic-lip-tattoo) creates a natural hue by restoring color to the border of the lip for the illusion of fullness, says [Dominique Bossavy](https://www.instagram.com/dominiquebossavy/?hl=en), a celebrity Nano Color Infusion® specialist. “As the industry has moved to more subtle enhancement outcomes, lip blushing is the ideal solution for low maintenance, naturally well-colored lips without having to reapply lipstick or gloss,” she explains.

But lip blushing isn't your grandma's permanent, tattooed-on, heavily outlined makeup of yesteryear. The techniques, devices, and pigments have considerably evolved for a much more natural look. Bossavy explains that back in the 1980s, cosmetic lip tattooing aimed to create a full-face makeup look often with conspicuous colors. “The industry has moved to a more subtle look that enhances the lip's natural color and invisible borders, creating a soft coloring and shape,” she shares.

If [microblading](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-to-know-before-microblading) is the gateway to semi-permanent, pigment-based beauty procedures, consider lip blushing the one that gets you hooked. According to Kimberly Culbertson, a master permanent makeup artist and owner of the [Beauty Babe Club](https://www.beautybabeclub.com/), permanent lip makeup is gaining popularity among women of all ages throughout the world. “It may sound scary to get lip color tattooed, but it's not the same as getting a traditional tattoo,” she says. The biggest point of differentiation: lip blushing utilizes organic and natural pigments and digitized pigment-placing devices for a natural finish. Old-school permanent makeup and more customary tattoos rely on pigment that is embedded deep within the skin, making it harder to remove. 

## **Lip Blushing Basics**
Today’s lip blush revolutionizes old, harsh lip liner tattoos to look realistic with a softer, more pixelated finish. “Lip blushing has taken off because it benefits everyone,” Cyre says. “It is a fairly low maintenance service with huge benefits.” Ideal for anyone looking to add some natural color to their lips, lip blushing is particularly a dream for aging lips with a receding vermillion border. “It’s great for making thin, uneven lips look full and smoothing the wrinkles that merge into the lips from the loss of collagen and volume,” Bossavy explains. And it's also suitable for men who want to improve their lip shape and treat uneven tones, Culbertson adds. 
 
The modern-day method of enhancing the lips with color is also way less traumatic since lip blushing is a semi-permanent procedure. “That's the biggest change of them all,” Cyre shares. “We don't want results to last a lifetime, and we want them to fade so they can change with us as we age.” To accomplish this, a variety of pigments are used. “Some artists choose to solely use cosmetic tattoo pigments, while others will use a combination of those, as well as regular tattoo pigments,” she explains. “So, now, there isn't the risk of the pigments turning blue, green, or gray over time.” This also makes it possible to work on darker lips, which artists could not do in the past.
 
For best results, a comprehensive approach is needed. Bossavy always assesses the lip shape, fullness, and color to make the most of the treatment. “In the instance of faded lips and a lack of color and border definition, only addressing volume with filler can make the white, faded area of the lip tissue appear puffy without making the lips more voluptuous,” she explains. “Yet, with a balanced design, lip blushing can further enhance the addition of filler in strategic places for added volume if needed.”
 
Every semi-permanent makeup artist has their technique, but lip blushing treatments are relatively comparable and include:

1. **Consultation**: As with any procedure or treatment, a consultation allows the client and artist to discuss and review aesthetic goals and shade preferences (bring inspiration photos). Bossavy says to base color choices on skin tone and undertones. “This is important since the final result will be directly affected by your lip's natural under and overtone,” she explains, adding that the standard [Fitzpatrick scale](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fitzpatrick-skin-types) often helps determine the best color outcome. “Many clients need melanin correction to lift the darkness in their lips, a process called lip neutralization,” she adds.
2. **Shaping**: Next comes the [lip shape](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-shape), which Cyre calls the “mapping” period. “This is where the artist creates better lip symmetry and balance to the lip, as well as the illusion of more volume by slightly extending the borders of the lip line while still working on the lip tissue,” she says, noting that it is not possible for everyone. Taking the lip border too far can result in unnaturally exaggerated lips. It's important to have realistic expectations and know that what works for one person may not suit anothes. 
3. **Prep**: After finalizing the shape and shade, the outline is sealed and waterproofed. Then, [numbing cream](https://aedit.com/aedition/numbing-cream-breakouts) is applied to the lips to maintain comfort through the tattooing process.
4. **Pigment**: Finally, pigment is deposited into the lips with a digital device and a sterile needle. Culbertson says that this part of the treatment involves layering pigment onto the lips to make them look as natural as possible. Expect to spend anywhere from one to four hours in the chair, depending on your skin.

Remember that lip blushing is semi-permanent, so your newly colored and enhanced pout will last for anywhere from one to five years. “Color retention depends on your health, lifestyle, and the proper aftercare,” Bossavy says. The darker the color selected, the longer it will last, though Culbertson notes that oily skin may result in a faster breakdown of pigment. Follow post-treatment instructions to a T and be sure to return for any follow up appointments. Most lip blushes require a touch-up session after the initial application (similar to microblading), and Cyre says a third session may be necessary to perfect the shade or when requesting neutralization. From there, most artists recommend annual touch ups. In the meantime, exfoliating the lips, keeping them moisturized, and [protecting them from the sun](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lip-balms-with-spf) are all essential for long-lasting color. 

## **Fuller Lips with a Bit of Color**
Sure, [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) are the quickest and easiest way to add volume to thin-looking lips, but they don't do much for restoring color to the pout. With age, it's normal for women to lose [lip volume](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size) and the vermillion border to lose definition. This combination can cause the lips to look thinner, Bossavy says, adding that blushing offers a color-restoring effect that is sheer and similar to a tinted lip gloss. “It's subtle and well defined without harsh lip lines,” she shares.
 
Creating a customized hue allows for a your-lips-but-better look. Cyre likes to collaborate with her clients to design a specific color's tone and depth. “We can match the lips to a favorite lipstick, liner, or even a photo of the preferred color,” she explains. Your lip blushing artist can also make adjustments if the color ends up being too light or too dark. Bossavy says clients with naturally darker lips can lighten and brighten gray tones through the process of neutralization, though it is a more complex process that requires additional expertise.
 
## **Stick to Lipstick & Lip Gloss If…**
For the most part, lip blushing is safe for the vast majority of people, but Cyre does advise that certain conditions may drive you away from treatment. “Individuals with wrinkled lips, almost black lips, damage and discoloration from smoking, or tough skin are usually not well-suited for lip blushing,” she says. “Also, anyone with a compromised immune system, as well as lip conditions like cold sores, split and cracked lips, bruised lips, or dry lips, should avoid lip blush until the skin returns to normal.” The reason? “These lip conditions usually do not take or will create an undesirable healed result,” she cautions.
 
Just because you get your lips blushed doesn’t mean you can’t play with your lip look. On nights (or days) when you want a little more color or a different finish, it's perfectly fine to layer [lipstick](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-apply-lipstick), lip liner, or lip gloss as usual. “Lip blushing produces a natural, well-balanced lip color and is not a replacement for lipstick,” Bossavy says. “Lipstick colors have more density, and they layer over the outer lip skin.”

What you need to know about the long-lasting pigmentation treatment.

The Benefits Of Semi-Permanent Lip Blushing

Why Lip Blushing Is Boosting The Return Of Permanent Makeup

ashley-piszek-CXaYzTYVAxg-unsplash

Much like Instagram before it, TikTok is the newest [social media](https://aedit.com/aedition/march-2020-study-shows-relationship-between-social-media-cosmetic-surgery) platform where beauty products go viral and lead to a physical rush to the store. Products like the [Dyson Airwrap](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fairwrap-complete-styler-pimprod2000154) and [Peter Thomas Roth Instant FIRMx Eye Tightener](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Finstant-firmx-eye-temporary-eye-tightener-xlsImpprod4160051) have benefited from excited TikTokers reviewing and recommending them over and over. Next up? The [Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dior.com%2Fen_us%2Fproducts%2Fbeauty-Y0124000-dior-addict-lip-glow-oil-nourishing-lip-oil-intense-gloss-color-awakening) has become a fan-favorite on the channel in recent months, with videos about the pH-adjusting pout enhancer garnering [over 76 million views](https://www.tiktok.com/tag/diorlipoil). 

The popularity of Dior’s Lip Glow Oil means that most online retailers are sold out of the product — though we did find [one shade](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dillards.com%2Fp%2Fdior-lip-glow-oil%2F510683836) in stock and available (at the time of publishing) — and some consumers have balked at the $35 price tag. The good news is that there are a number of lip oils on the market, and many of them are worthy dupes of the Dior option or, dare we say, even better than the OG. Here, we rounded up 13 solid lip oil options that will give you hydration, shine, and color all day (or night) long.

## **The Benefits of Lip Oil**
We wouldn’t blame you for dismissing the trendy lippie as nothing more than a fad in pretty packaging, but lip oil as a category and product type actually has merit. Lip oils are often more hydrating and conditioning than lip gloss or [lipstick](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-apply-lipstick), as glosses tend to be all shine and little substance and lipstick textures can be drying. 

As the name suggests, lip oils are usually packed with, yes, nourishing oils that boost moisture, soothe chapped skin, and provide a natural [plumping effect](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lip-plumpers) thanks to the hydrating hit. But the multitasker has aesthetic benefits as well. If you are a fan of the glass lip trend, reach for a lip oil to treat the lips while you shine bright like a diamond. The formulas often impart a mirror-like finish and may or may not be tinted. 

Depending on the product and your preference, you can use lip oils as an overnight treatment before bed, wear alone during the day in place of lip balm, or layer over lipstick (à la a lip gloss) for a dose of moisturizing shine.

## **The Best Lip Oils**
Now that you know the benefits of lip oil, it’s time to add one to your makeup kit. Whether you are looking for an alternative to the ever-popular Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil or you are curious about what else is out there, we’ve got something for everyone.

### **Haus Laboratories PhD Hybrid Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-Haus](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/18QQc5CLQddVbwTiocRccp/6624bea47c46e1f79abcdbdc068e67ef/AEDIT-Haus.jpg)
Of course Lady Gaga’s makeup line has its own lip oil. In addition to a beautiful wash of color, you’ll also have a hydrated pout when using this product thanks to plant-derived [squalane](https://aedit.com/aedition/benefits-of-squalane-for-skin-hair), collagen, and peptides. The lip oil comes in five delicious shades, but our pick is the Sheer Orange. $24, [hauslabs.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hauslabs.com%2Fproducts%2Fphd-hybrid-lip-oil)

### **Gisou Honey-Infused Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-Gisou](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/123pK5HJewpXb1JTdsLdDY/b0e9c4ff1a71232c5873f8bf79f201c4/AEDIT-Gisou.jpg)
Following up on the success of its fast-absorbing [Face Oil](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.gisou.com%2Fproducts%2Fhoney-infused-face-oil), this lip oil is essentially skincare for your pout. It combines Mirsalehi honey with hyaluronic acid and a proprietary oil blend to plump and define. The golden honey hue will enhance your natural lip color, and it can also be worn underneath other lip products for added hydration. $32, [us.gisou.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.gisou.com%2Fproducts%2Fhoney-infused-lip-oil) 

### **Deck of Scarlet Solid Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-DeckOfScarlet](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4KwEB7TtzXuhD9RkgYUMcm/38a32f04a1ad2ee4de610d293b4529b9/AEDIT-DeckOfScarlet.jpg)
This editor-approved lippie is perfect for those who are looking for a little less slip and a little more color. It comes in over 20 shades – from flirty pinks to cool purples to classic reds – and has the most unique texture of any on the list. It starts as a solid before melting into a luxurious, plush oil upon contact. $28, [deckofscarlet.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.deckofscarlet.com%2Fproducts%2Fthreeway-solid-lip-oil%3Fvariant_id%3D36242846285984) 

### **Iconic London Lustre Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-IconicLondon](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4Em9qzM9HS09eyFpJz6oqd/442edb57ac72bdd7f34d0bf34b7b0ffa/AEDIT-IconicLondon.jpg)
Available in five sheer shades (including this pale pink, watermelon-scented option), use these juicy oils alone, over your favorite lipstick, or as a pre-treatment. Apply the maracuja oil- and sodium hyaluronate-infused formula 30 minutes before doing your lip look to hydrate, smooth, and plump your pout. The pillowy, rotating applicator ensures total coverage for a cocoon-like effect. $26, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Ficonic-london-lustre-lip-oil-P463452) 

### **Kosas Wet Lip Oil Gloss**
![AEDIT-Kosas](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3iyqicdfvZUcMGmezkLRAB/2134333dddc60799d3a1a2ba05de7458/AEDIT-Kosas.jpg)
A lip treatment, lip oil, and lip gloss in one (whew!), this product is packed with hydrating active ingredients like [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), evening primrose oil, and shea butter to plump and protect the pout. The range of eight shades includes a clear option, beautiful nudes and pinks, and a bold red (i.e. a color for every mood). $22, [kosas.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fkosas.com%2Fproducts%2Fwet-lip-oil-gloss%3Fcurrency%3DUSD%26variant%3D39343081226297%26) 

### **Jouer Cosmetics Essential Hydrating Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-Jouer](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5gBjDPOX0BQXGvdEB7iT9e/d9bc6c2ad32b4668fa6a33b31a65e45b/AEDIT-Jouer.jpg)
Tired of clear lip glosses offering shine but no nourishment and way too much stickiness? This pick might just be your new best friend. Available in one, your-lips-but-better shade, it’ll flatter every skin tone while giving lips glass-like shine and a conditioned feel. The latter comes courtesy of natural ingredients like rice bran oil, jojoba seed oil, and mulberry fruit extract. $20, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fjouer-cosmetics-essential-lip-enhancer-oil-P456376%3F) 

### **Clarins Lip Comfort Oil**
![AEDIT-Clarins](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2PuQ7XRqOVnE1eGgbWlDOD/473e531d7d53b7fcaa2dc7f1237b43cd/AEDIT-Clarins.jpg)
Organic sweetbriar rose oil, organic jojoba oil, and hazelnut oil join forces in this cushiony oil. Available in eight sheer shades, we're partial to the tawny Chocolate hue that calls to mind the glossy neutral lips of '90s supermodel lore. $27, [clarinsusa.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.clarinsusa.com%2Fen%2Flip-comfort-oil%2F80084594.html) 

### **InnBeauty Lip Oil in Glaze #5 Fruity Cereal**
![AEDIT-InnBeauty](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2mUEApnd1Vh4wAbuXoGtGZ/b649b18bc99d714b9bb1428451edd0e7/AEDIT-InnBeauty.jpg)
This lip oil marries all of the fun of your favorite childhood lip glosses with the hydration and antioxidants you want as an adult. It comes with a large applicator that is designed to mimic your fingertip for a comfortable glide and a natural, plant-based sweetener gives a hint of sweetness without being overpowering. You can also collect the brand’s first five lip oils in [this cute kit](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.innbeautyproject.com%2Fcollections%2Flips%2Fproducts%2Fglaze-for-days). $15, [innbeautyproject.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.innbeautyproject.com%2Fcollections%2Flips%2Fproducts%2Fglaze-5) 

### **Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-BurtsBees](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/23agIap0sHNnEmrdAFhTEy/f455e88fdafc4d2422d042bfb610e9a6/AEDIT-BurtsBees.jpg)
This drugstore option is perfectly portable, as its pen-like packaging pretty much eliminates the chance of a spill in your bag. The six milky shades are easy to wear, and, with a blend of meadowfoam seed and coconut oils, this lip oil also promises to reduce the appearance of fine lines. We’ll call that a win-win. $9, [burtsbees.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.burtsbees.com%2Fproduct%2Ftinted-lip-oil%2FVM-792850898080.html) 

### **Merit Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-Merit](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5Xf1cX1UFr8nOaKzxzB2dO/ecbe1d2fea8f336f36103449dc5360fd/AEDIT-Merit.jpg)
Consider this oil-infused tint a nourishing take on your go-to lip stain. Available in eight colors (we love the rosy Pink Beet), the lightweight formula is designed to improve moisture levels over time thanks to rosehip oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and [shea butter](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-shea-butter-in-skincare). The former two encourage healthy barrier function to lock in hydration, while the latter two condition and soften the lips. $24, [meritbeauty.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meritbeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Fshade-slick%3Fvariant%3D40322814279866) 

### **Milani Fruit Fetish Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-Milani](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4JyA3Z1ORRquO932gSAfcw/0afc2e0f51ca19fe7a728e1dd1acf8b5/AEDIT-Milani.jpg)
As its name suggests, this lip oil is formulated with fruit extracts and vitamin E to nourish your pout, and the fruity flavors include Passionfruit Coconut, Strawberry Melon, Raspberry Peach, and Cherry Lime, with the latter being [directly compared](https://www.tiktok.com/@makeupsessions/video/7051746524715420974) to Dior’s Lip Oil – if that’s what you’re going for! $10, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Ffruit-fetish-lip-oil-pimprod2030334)

### **elf Tinted Lip Oil**
![AEDIT-elf](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2uSi9xsD9ywaaZrTrgNTgt/da2db7939ab7ef7e91e5663f11329490/AEDIT-elf.jpg)
The brand is known for offering wallet-friendly dupes of both trendy and classic products, and this lip oil is no exception. Each of the five tinted shades (we’re partial to this poppy coral) are infused with jojoba and apricot oils and emollient [vitamin E](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-e-in-skincare) and can be worn alone or over another lip color. $6, [elfcosmetics.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elfcosmetics.com%2Ftinted-lip-oil%2F82433.html) 

### **ColourPop The Rescue Lux Lip Oil Kit**
![AEDIT-ColourPop](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1QD5B7aXwua2enRUPyV6Gm/d2d1b5e09108da5a5ff5297db99d02ad/AEDIT-ColourPop.jpg)
This Mandalorian-themed lip kit is the perfect pair. Grogu is a clear gloss with flecks of glitter, while Din Djarin is a warm terracotta shade. The texture of the gel-oil formula is more akin to a traditional gloss, though it includes soothing chamomile and calendula oils for instant suppleness. $18, [colourpop.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcolourpop.com%2Fproducts%2Fthe-rescue-lux-lip-oil-kit) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

TikTok’s favorite product is actually worth the hype.

The Best Lip Oils For Moisture, Shine, And Color

These 13 Lip Oils Prove Why Lip Gloss Is So Last Year

sam-moqadam-GPvnJC6Idl4-unsplash

We rely on [neuromodulators](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) and [fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) to stave off the hands of time, but could all their wrinkle-reducing and plumping powers change the look of your smile? Interestingly enough, the answer is yes. Sometimes, it’s for the better. Other times, it's not. The key to achieving a face-flattering smile — whether you intend to tweak it or keep it exactly the same — comes down to the [technique](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-injectable-techniques-needles-for-botox-filler) of the injector and the products used, which is why it's in your best interest to be as well-versed in both as possible. Here, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about how injectables can impact your smile.

## **A Sudden Change**
If you undergo injectables and wake the next day (or soon after that) to what seems like a different smile, it's not your mind playing tricks on you. Strange but true, [cosmetic injectables](https://aedit.com/procedure/dermal-filler-and-injectable-solutions) (read: neurotoxins and filler) can make a noteworthy difference in the appearance of the mouth – whether you ask your injector for it or not. Depending on the products that your injector uses and the precise injection locations, a bit of filler or neuromodulator here or there can alter the lower face. 

Lip fillers are known (and loved) for their ability to address [lip shape](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-shape) and [lip size](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size) concerns. They can help balance out any asymmetries and plump, but it is important to fill in moderation. Excess filler can hide the smile by bringing the lips down and casting a shadow over the teeth, explains [Sharon Huang, DDS](https://www.lesbellesnyc.com/), a board certified cosmetic dentist in New York City. Product placement should always be strategic and proportionate between the upper and lower lips.

Selecting the appropriate filler for the lips is vital. Flexible hyaluronic acid (HA)-based gels tend to fare best since they look and feel the most natural. However, when using too stiff of a filler, the smile can appear ‘overstuffed,’ says [Darren Smith, MD](https://www.darrensmithmd.com/), a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City. “Proper placement of mid-face and lower face filler should not significantly affect the smile,” he shares. With that said, “if an overly firm filler is used or if the region is [overfilled](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-correct-overfilled-facial-features), an unnatural appearance can result as the lips push against stiff surrounding tissues,” he adds.

Perhaps the most crucial component in maintaining a natural yet aesthetically appealing smile is symmetry. The lips are a vital component to the [balance](https://aedit.com/aedition/facial-harmony-in-aesthetic-medicine) and aesthetics of the face, says [Neda Mehr, MD](https://puredermoc.com/), a board certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, CA. “According to science, the lips ideally should take up 40 percent of the width of the lower face with the upper lip being half the size of the lower lip from the front view and projecting two millimeters further out than the upper lip from the side view,” Dr. Mehr explains. But that isn't the smile that most of us have naturally, which is where strategically placed injectables come in. 

## **What Comes First: Injectables or Cosmetic Dentistry?**
In the anti-aging smile game, many elements factor into how the pout, mouth, and lower face as a whole looks, including the proportion of the lips, the teeth, the gum lines, and even the degree to which the jaw and jawline extend. While injectables are a big part of the preservation and/or rejuvenation, cosmetic dentistry can be equally important. Whether you plan on incorporating a bit of both or just one, how do you know which procedure to do first?

Dr. Mehr recommends starting with the mouth. “Many times, having a tooth extracted or getting veneers can change the symmetry and contours of their face, she notes. Ideally, there will be synchronicity between your treatment plans. If not, instances can arise where fillers or injectables negate the effects of otherwise excellent dental work. For example, when the teeth are hiding under a layer of excessive filler, the work – be it orthodontics, whitening, or [veneers](https://aedit.com/procedure/veneers) – can be overshadowed by lips that are too large. Patients can't fully appreciate the dental work without the perfect frame to complement and enhance it, says [Anjali Rajpal, DMD](https://aedit.com/provider/anjali-rajpal-428), a cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills. “Thus, the position of the lips is an important element in smile makeovers because they serve as the essential frame,” she notes.

By doing dental work first, the structure of the teeth will be in place. This will allow the Botox® or fillers to be injected accordingly, meaning the proportions shouldn’t need to be adjusted. Even so, less is still more. “You can always add more filler,” Dr. Rajpal shares. “It is better to do a little initially and add more if wanted.”

## **Enhance Your Lips, Maximize Your Smile**
When injected judiciously, hyaluronic acid-based fillers and/or neurotoxins (read: [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox), [Dysport®](https://aedit.com/procedure/dysportr), [Jeuveau®](https://aedit.com/procedure/jeuveau), and [Xeomin®](https://aedit.com/procedure/xeomin)) can enhance the smile as a whole. Below are some of the ways cosmetic injectables can be used to improve the lower third of the face in a cohesive and proportional way.

### **1. Fill-er Up**
Lip injections using HA filler are a common request in most dermatology and plastic surgery offices as a quick and reliable way to shape and plump the lips. “Fillers in the lip can be an excellent option to provide both volume or hydration to the aging or asymmetric lip and highlight a person's natural smile,” Dr. Mehr says. And there’s a way to do it that doesn’t alter the smile — unless that’s the end goal.

Natural asymmetries in the lips or the smile — due to genetics, age, volume loss, and even past cosmetic dental work — can cause the mouth to fall over the teeth and lips. Sometimes, one side of the mouth is fuller or more prolonged than the other, making the smile appear crooked or heavier. [Lip filler](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) can be used to restore a more balanced pout, but discounting these asymmetries while attempting to correct the smile can throw off the entire balance of the face. This is where the expertise and artistry of the injector are key.

### **2. Flip That Lip**
You’ve no doubt seen the so-called ‘lip flip’ on your social media feeds. The ideal candidate? Those with a thin smile and a top lip that seems to disappear when smiling. If this is the result of naturally pulling or bending the upper lip inward when smiling, Dr. Rajpal says Botox® in the top lip may be able to help. It can prevent the curling under without the need to augment the size. Injecting neuromodulators into the [cupid’s bow area](https://aedit.com/aedition/cupids-bow-cosmetic-surgery-fillers-for-lip-augmentation) and at the corners of the mouth can relax the muscles that allow the lips to curl outward so that they appear more defined in shape. 

Unlike filler, there is no additional volume added to the lips. The size will remain the same while improving the shape and, ultimately, the smile. Keep in mind that, while a lip flip can enhance the appearance of the smile, it can, in some cases, affect lip function. Visiting a highly skilled injector with a deep understanding of the anatomy of the area will help to ensure a safe and effective result that lasts about three to four months.

### **3. Turn That Frown Upside Down**
As Dr. Huang explains, filler helps lift the corners of the mouth so that the mouth doesn't appear to be frowning. “We can also fill the marionette lines for less of a downturned smile or droopy mouth,” she adds. Whether or not you consider frowning or RBF (IYKYK) to be a concern, some providers consider it part of a lip filler treatment. Dr. Mehr, for example, injects filler into the lower corners of the mouth almost every time so that “patients look happy at rest.” As a result, “any attention we draw to their lips is positive,” she adds.

### **4. Gummy Smile Be Gone**
Increasing the volume in the upper lip with filler is often the go-to for minimizing a gummy smile. But, while it works well for some, it's not the best solution for everyone. If a patient's upper gum excessively shows when smiling, injecting Botox® helps soften and lower the upper lip muscles so they can't pull down on the lip. For more extreme cases, an in-office procedure performed at the dentist's office, known as laser gum contouring, can remove a small amount of gum tissue to correct discrepancies between teeth gum levels.

### **5. The Right Way to Relax the Jaw** 
There is a reason more and more people are opting for [jawline slimming with neurotoxins](https://aedit.com/procedure/jawline-slimming-with-botox). It can non-surgically contour the jawline for three to four months at a time, while also [relaxing a clenched jaw or correcting TMJ](https://aedit.com/aedition/botox-to-treat-tmj-disorders-and-jaw-slimming). But, as with anything, too much of a good thing isn’t good. Injecting directly into the area where the jawbone and muscle meet is crucial; otherwise, specific facial muscles can become temporarily paralyzed and throw the smile off-kilter. 

In addition to limited movement in the mouth and around it, poorly placed neuromodulators can also cause the smile to be noticeably uneven. When that’s the case, patience is required. Father time has to work his magic. After about three months, the toxin effects should wear off, and the smile should return to normal. 

## **How to Tell If You’re Overfilled**
At this point you’ve likely gleaned that adding volume to the lips doesn't affect just their size. It can [alter their proportion](https://aedit.com/aedition/plastic-surgery-results-are-about-proportion-not-perfection) and cause the upper lip to become larger than the bottom one, especially if too much product is injected. Plus, as Dr. Smith shares, an overfilled lip can restrict movement and interfere with facial expression. In extreme cases, it may interfere with the ability to close the lips. The goal of lip filler is to enhance the smile, not to push the upper lip further up. That can actually create a gummy smile or force the lips down and cover the teeth. 

When smiling, an overfilled lip can make the teeth appear almost nonexistent and create the illusion that the lip is overrunning the smile. “Some patients with excess filler notice that their teeth seem to disappear because the lips have become so thick that they push down from the filler and completely hide the teeth even when smiling,” Dr. Rajpal cautions. If overfilled lips have reduced visibility of the teeth, your dentist may lengthen the teeth slightly – so long as it does not compromise function. “[Porcelain veneers](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-modern-porcelain-dental-veneers) and crowns can be designed in a way to help support the lip and improve the fullness as well,” she adds.

Another issue that can arise from disproportionate amounts of filler is harsh lip lines that blur the line between where the lips start and end. Patients that become obsessed with filling their lips blunt the lines around their lips — the vermillion border — and the lipstick lines almost bleed into their upper lip, Dr. Mehr says. “When this happens, they lose an element of their natural beauty,” she laments.

But that’s not all. Filler migration happens when a product placed in the upper lip slowly shifts from one area to another in a matter of millimeters or less. Although it’s not life-threatening and does not require treatment, migrated filler can distort the look of the lips and cause the mouth as a whole to take on a duck-like or rolled up and out appearance – especially when smiling. 

Any time excessive filler use is the problem, [hyaluronidase injections](https://aedit.com/procedure/hyaluronidase) are usually the answer, as they dissolve hyaluronic acid in a short period. This is not a solution, however, for Botox® and like. If you are unhappy with those results, you’ll have to wait it out.

## **The Takeaway**
Dental work is permanent. Fillers and neurotoxins are temporary. If poor or overdone fillers are impeding your smile, it's best to dissolve them with hyaluronidase and, if needed, start fresh. Meanwhile, let your neurotoxin injections wear off. This way, your dermatologist and dentist can assess your lower face as a whole and determine the best course of action to enhance and maximize your smile.

Aesthetics

The smile staring back at you may not be the one you once knew.

How Lip Filler And Botox Can Affect Your Smile

Are Injectables Changing Your Smile? 

morgan-alley-deq9ni4EGY8-unsplash

For those who wish to enhance or change the [size or shape of the lips](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size), the most popular professional treatments include [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers), [lip implants](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-augmentation-with-smas-implant), and [lip lifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-lift). These procedures are generally considered safe and effective, but they come with, for starters, a trip to your dermatologist or plastic surgeon. If you are looking for a quicker fix, there is another option for a plusher, bee-stung pout — and it’s likely a product that you’ve passed right over in the beauty aisle. Enter the lip plumper. 

While the lip plumper’s prominence in the beauty space had waned in recent years (compared to its ubiquity in the early-2000s), the category seems ripe for a resurgence with a variety of formulas on the market that are a step up from the stinging ones of yesteryear. Read on for a guide to the pros and cons of lip plumpers.

## **Lip Plumper 101**
When it comes to choosing the right lip plumper, the very first step should be checking the ingredient list. “The most important ingredient in any lip plumper would be [hyaluronic acid (HA)](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler),” says [Cece Davis, APRN, FNP-C](https://www.skinspirit.com/expert/cece-davis-aprnfnp-c/), an aesthetic nurse practitioner at SkinSpirit in Austin. “This gives the appearance of a fuller, plumper lip while hydrating the surface at the same time.” Pairing HA with fast-acting actives provides a quick fix. “Popular ingredients such as capsicum (from chili peppers) and bee venom temporarily swell the lips by increasing blood flow to the area, yielding a short term lip plump,” she adds.

If you are looking for a more lasting enhancement, Davis recommends looking for another skincare staple: [peptides](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-peptides-in-skincare). “If the goal is to achieve a long-term outcome and build collagen in the tissue, then collagen-building ingredients, like tripeptide 38 or palmitoyl oligopeptide, are beneficial in triggering collagen and elastin growth,” she explains. 

Like your favorite skin serum, results from HA and peptide formulas may require a bit of patience. The plus side, however, is that there is less risk of irritation. Part of the reason why lip plumpers fell out of favor was due to their sensitizing side effects. For some, the ingredients that cause the plumping, like bee venom, cause an allergic reaction. Even for buyers without allergies, the actives can lead to [sensitization](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-sensitive-vs-sensitized-skin). “Oftentimes, menthols and cinnamon are used in plumpers,” Davis notes. “So, if the consumer is not fond of a tingling or burning sensation to the lips, then I would recommend avoiding those ingredients as well.” When in doubt, patch test the plumper prior to applying it to your lips. 

One other note from Davis? “Lip plumpers are transferable by touch, so, if you're out on a date and you go in for that first kiss, you will leave a lasting impression on your partner with a short-term tingle to remember you by,” she teases.

## **Lip Plumpers vs. Lip Fillers**
While lip plumpers and [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-augmentation-solutions) may theoretically provide similar outcomes as far plumpness is concerned, the similarities end there. “Lip plumpers are a temporary effect that may last 60 to 90 minutes at most — perfect for some selfie action or a date night,” Davis shares. Those looking for lasting results, however, will want to visit a professional. “If you want a sustainable result lasting six to 12 months, then dermal fillers would be your winner,” she says. 

Additionally, the benefits of lip plumpers are quite limited when compared to what lip filler can provide. “Overall, fillers yield a different outcome considering lip filler enhances shape, definition, and volume, whereas lip plumper only slightly increases the surface area through a short term swelling process,” Davis shares. It should also be noted that, with frequent use, it is possible for lip plumper wearers to develop a tolerance to the ingredients that induce the plumping effect. In such cases, the formulas won’t work as well. 

With that said, lip plumpers and lip fillers can complement each other. Many patients who get lip filler [will later use a lip plumper](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-to-know-before-getting-lip-filler-for-the-first-time) to further enhance their results. If you wish to do the same, Davis recommends you “wait three to four weeks before experimenting with anything new on your freshly filled lips.” As she explains, “it can take a full month for your lips to settle and the filler to integrate” and you don’t want to “interrupt” the healing process.

## **The Best Lip Plumpers to Try Now**
Now that you know what lip plumpers can do, we’re rounding up some of the best short- and long-term volumizing formulas for a plusher pout.

### **For Serious Shade Options**: Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish
![AEDIT-Buxom](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6lYKfSQQZxyxW0aqKth0UK/6886d5485de3cd0f4e1893d45d0cd44e/AEDIT-Buxom.jpg)
Buxom offers over 70 (!) different shades of its peptide plumping polish, and you can be rest assured that there will be no dry lips here — this glossy formula features vitamins A and E for lasting moisture and smoothness. $21, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Ffull-on-plumping-lip-polish-xlsImpprod13631035) 

### **For A Mature Mouth**: Paula's Choice Hyaluronic Acid + Peptide Lip Booster
![AEDIT-PaulasChoice](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/194uuHjyIxkm2oQ9xVuAsJ/32ce2d8de063eda346fe92543b14be07/AEDIT-PaulasChoice.jpg)
Developed to target the signs of lip aging (think: fine lines, thinning, and dehydration), this treatment balm features hyaluronic acid filling spheres to attract moisture, peptides to firm, and squalene to boost hydration. Apply before bed and as needed throughout the day for a more youthful pout. $29, [paulaschoice.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paulaschoice.com%2Fhyaluronic-acid-and-peptide-lip-booster%2F958.html)

### **For A Custom Finish**: Too Faced Lip Injection Power Plumping Lip Gloss
![AEDIT-TooFaced](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/10Synrgb49EIrLHHDwarKd/76789fef19b1679f7e5c97359647f5dd/AEDIT-TooFaced.jpg)
Whether you’re a glittery goddess or prefer a glass-like pout, Too Faced has something for you. The brand offers three different finishes — shimmer, glitter, and high shine — of its peptide-infused plumping product that’ll make your lips appear plump and plush. $24, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Ftoo-faced-lip-injection-power-plumping-lip-gloss-P467795) 

### **For Vegans**: Milk Makeup Electric Glossy Lip Plumper
![AEDIT-MilkMakeup](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6TXVUZJoatYo2ohJOux0I5/2895f7ce6e87d5b5ee29234ba3f4bf20/AEDIT-MilkMakeup.jpg)
If you’re a fan of spicy food, this gloss is for you. The vegan formula gets its plumping power from Sichuan pepper, which adds a tingling sensation and subtle flavor; Volulip™, a plant extract that boosts HA synthesis; and collagen to moisturize and smooth. $25, [sephora.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fmilk-electric-glossy-lip-plumper-P468863)

### **For Nourishing Fullness**: Nudeskin Hydra-Peptide Lip Butter
![AEDIT-Nudeskin](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4E3Tyl2e4wi6Zzhqh5kKU7/ba3e5f2fdb743cdfbf8f206fd1ff997d/AEDIT-Nudeskin.jpg)
If longer-term volume is what you’re after, this nourishing lippie is for you. Avocado and shea butters soften the pout, vitamins A and E soothe dry, chapped lips, and peptides maximize fullness and contour. Use twice daily to stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid production. $18, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Fnudeskin-hydra-peptide-lip-butter-pimprod2024594) 

### **For Layering**: L.A. Girl Lip Plumper Tinted
![AEDIT-LAGirl](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/12syxGtMKEDHUBlbpVPB4Z/73a0ec3d63021cf3bf3e5427eb389255/AEDIT-LAGirl.jpg)
Made for use on its own or over another lip color, this rosy-hued plumper’s cinnamon-infused formula pumps up circulation to the lips for an instant tingle that leads to a fuller pout. $5, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Flip-plumper-tinted-xlsImpprod18871031) 

### **For a Pink Pout**: L'Oréal Infallible Pro Plump Lip Gloss With Hyaluronic Acid
![AEDIT-LOreal](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6d6eOomwrNcPv7Nc9qeMun/e8b934550af26b30c59a0b8a5432ba4d/AEDIT-LOreal.jpg)
We’re not sure what we love most about this drugstore plumper: the lightweight HA formula that subtly enhances the smile; the sculpting applicator for a flawless contour; or the range of perfectly pink shades. $10, [ulta.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fp%2Finfallible-pro-plump-lip-gloss-with-hyaluronic-acid-pimprod2024984) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

The early-2000s favorite lippie may be making a comeback. Here’s what you need to know.

The Best Lip Plumpers And Glosses For Fuller Lips 

The Ultimate Guide To Lip Plumpers

shutterstock 569215900

Lip augmentation with dermal filler is consistently one of the top non-surgical aesthetic procedures performed each year, and not even [COVID-19 face coverings](https://aedit.com/aedition/aedit-survey-reveals-how-2020-altered-aesthetic-landscape) could dampen the enthusiasm for plusher pouts. At this point, you likely know someone who has tried lip filler, and social media is ripe with perfectly plump lips. But, if you are considering the injections for yourself, it’s important to remember that it is a real procedure with real risks that need to be taken seriously and considered carefully before going under the needle. 

To better understand what it’s like to get lip filler for the first time, we spoke to a first-time patient, fashion stylist Megan of [Belles&Rebelles](https://www.instagram.com/bellesnrebelles/?hl=en), and her provider, New York City-based board certified dermatologist [Dendy Engelman, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/dendy-engelman-md-312), about what to expect before, during, and after getting lip filler.

## **The Decision-Making Process**
Megan says she has been “super interested” in getting lip filler for a decade and went so far as to thoroughly research and book an appointment for treatment a few years ago before cancelling at the last minute because her fear of needles held her back. “I am mortified of needles,” she admits. “I am 35, and I don’t even have my ears pierced!” Another concern? “All of my friends who have lip filler told me it’s the most painful,” she says. “I don’t have a high pain tolerance and am afraid of needles, so they told me that lip filler is not the one to get.”

Even so, it’s the only aesthetic procedure she’s ever been interested in. “I am not really into beauty, to be honest,” Megan says. “I really don’t do anything other than wash with soap and water and I’ve had a facial like once in my life, but I’ve always considered lip filler.” 

Like so many lip filler patients, her interest in [pout plumping](https://aedit.com/concern/lip-size) stems from the way she views herself in photos. “Whenever I smile in pictures, I wish I had more of a top lip,” she explains. “My top lip kind of disappears.” Overall, she also thought she “could probably use a little more volume,” too.

With COVID-19 face coverings offering the opportunity to [conceal any post-procedure side effects](https://aedit.com/aedition/influence-of-covid-19-face-masks-on-medical-aesthetics-trends), Megan once again started to think about getting lip filler, and a client she was working with recommended Dr. Engelman. In January, she finally overcame her fear of needles and followed through on her decade-long dream of a fuller pout — and she’s thrilled with the result:

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3isEs1LHgIKaGJ8GidpKNV/882281e093ed5ba60e4aa95137246cb3/BA-031121.png}>
  A look at Megan before (left) and immediately after (right) her lip filler procedure.
</CaptionImg>

## **First-Time Lip Filler Tips**
If you are reading this article, it’s probably because you are considering lip filler and have a whole host of questions. From finding the right provider and filler type for your needs to understanding how much it hurts and what the side effects may be, we’re breaking down the 10 most important things to know before getting lip filler for the first time.

### **1. Finding the Right Provider Is Key**
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: take great care in [finding the right provider](https://aedit.com/aedition/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist). “Regardless of where you are going for fillers, it is very important to make sure you are going to a reputable physician,” Dr. Engelman cautions. “Make sure they are [board certified](https://aedit.com/aedition/medical-board-certification-in-plastic-surgery-cosmetic-dermatology), licensed, and trained.” While lip filler is often billed as a quick, minimally-invasive procedure, it requires expertise. “Without a clear understanding of facial anatomy, an untrained professional can inject into a blood vessel, damage a nerve, and potentially cause irreparable damage,” she explains. 

It’s also important that you feel comfortable with the provider’s bedside manner and body of work. “I would definitely say to go to the right person,” Megan says. “I remember Dr. Dendy saying that she doesn’t have a heavy hand. For someone like me who is new to it, I didn’t completely want to change my appearance.” 

If you don’t know how to [go about your search](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-i-found-my-surgeon-look-for-specialization), consider asking for referrals. “I work with an influencer who has been going to Dr. Dendy,” Megan shares, adding that she also looked at her [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/drdendy/?hl=en) and recognized her from her appearances on the Today Show. “I trust her and really felt like she knew what she was doing,” she says. 

### **2. There are Different Types of Lip Filler**
Not all lip filler is the same. There are both [temporary](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) and [permanent](https://aedit.com/procedure/permanent-lip-fillers) options, but temporary [hyaluronic acid (HA)](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler)-based injectable gel fillers are the most popular (yes, that’s the same HA found in your favorite hydrating skincare). Dr. Engelman likes the Juvéderm® suite of HA filler, which includes Juvéderm® Volbella XC and Juvéderm® Ultra XC. Both are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for [lip augmentation](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-augmentation-solutions) and the correction of perioral rhytids (a.k.a. perioral lines). Restylane® is another common hyaluronic acid filler that is FDA-approved for lips.

HA filler naturally degrades and is absorbed by the body over time (hence why it is a temporary treatment), but, in the case of complications or an unsatisfying result, the process can be sped up by hyaluronidase — a family of enzymes that catalyse the degradation of hyaluronic acid.

### **3. Lip Filler Can Look Natural**
What comes to mind when you think of lip filler? Is it the overfilled pouts that inhabit your social media feeds? Well, lip filler — particularly, hyaluronic acid-based ones — can provide very natural results that simply enhance what you already have. “I was surprised that it can be done naturally,” Megan admits. “I look at myself and it doesn’t even look like I got it done. They still look completely natural.”

Needless to say, being able to communicate your aesthetic goals is key. And while inspiration images may help guide the conversation, don’t expect your provider to be able to simply recreate Angelina Jolie’s pillowy pucker on your face. “I love when patients share with me what they are looking for or interested in. A visual is another tool for me to better understand how I can help my patients,” Dr. Engelman shares. “That said, my goal is to make someone the best version of themselves. So, if their ‘ideal’ isn’t fitting for their features, this needs to be discussed prior to injections.” 

### **4. Be Mindful of Vitamins & Supplements** 
You’re used to being asked about any medications you are taking on intake forms at the doctor’s office, but, in this era of wellness, you’re going to want to [disclose your vitamin and supplement routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/vitamins-supplements-to-avoid-before-cosmetic-surgery), too. Your provider will likely recommend laying off most supplements for a few days before your procedure, as taking them can increase the risk of bleeding and, therefore, bruising. “Avoid blood thinners, NSAIDS, vitamin E, fish oil, and alcohol in order to reduce the risk of prolonged swelling and/or bruising,” Dr. Engelman says. She also tells patients to “avoid facial or body massages for up to 48 hours” before lip filler injections.

### **5. It’s a Quick Procedure** 
You may have heard lip injections referred to as a ‘lunchtime procedure,’ and it does live up to the hype. In the case of first-time patients, you will likely start the appointment with a [short consultation](https://aedit.com/aedition/questions-to-ask-your-doctor-during-plastic-surgery-consultation) to discuss your medical history and goals. From there, [‘before’ photos](https://aedit.com/aedition/importance-of-before-and-after-photos-in-plastic-surgery) might be taken and numbing cream may be applied (more on that below!). “Injection can take as little as two minutes,” Dr. Engelman notes, though she treads carefully with patients who are nervous about the process. “I take breaks with clients that are uncomfortable with needles,” she says. 

<CaptionImg url={https://images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2WJwl6NQ6JmeXTk55ol2kn/775f77ee7fabf2587157158db33dde3a/during-031121-edit.png}>
  Dr. Engelman injecting Megan's lower lip with Juvéderm®.
</CaptionImg>

Megan estimates that her appointment, which included a consultation, photos, and numbing, took less than an hour. Future touch ups could be done in as little as a half hour. “The process itself can be very quick,” Dr. Engelman says.

### **6. Lip Filler Doesn’t Hurt … Too Much**
Most fillers on the market today are pre-mixed with lidocaine to improve the comfort of the injection, and many providers also employ topical numbing cream to further take the edge off. That takes about 20 minutes to kick in, which, as we learned above, is the lengthiest part of the treatment. “Patients feel very little discomfort in the hands of a skilled injector,” Dr. Engelman shares.

Some providers also [employ a vibrator](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-before-getting-botox-for-the-first-time) (yes, you read that correctly), which is believed to trick the sensory nerves surrounding the injection site into not knowing exactly where the needle is coming from. The result? Even less possibility for pain. Megan’s treatment didn’t include a pulsating tool, yet she still hardly felt a thing. “I was most surprised by how little it hurt,” she says. “I felt little pricks, but I was not in pain at all. ” 

### **7. Your Lips Will Probably Bruise** 
While Megan avoided any discomfort during the procedure, she did experience a very common side effect of lip injections: [bruising](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-bruising-after-lasers-filler-botox). “Bruising and swelling are both common post-treatment,” Dr. Engelman notes. “They usually last a few days.” Ice packs are typically employed immediately after treatment to offset the impact, and she says oral and topical arnica may also help reduce the chances of bruising.

Megan says she bruised on her top lip, and it resolved over the course of about five days. “The first couple of days, it was noticeable and then it started to fade,” she explains. “If you didn’t know me, you’d probably think it was a beauty mark.” And since face masks are still the accessory de rigueur, hardly anyone saw a thing. “I just wore a mask and didn’t tell anyone but my mom and close friends,” she says. “No one even noticed.” 

### **8. A Follow-Up Appointment May Be Needed**
The process of plumping your pout for the first time is often a gradual one. “I never want to over-treat a patient,” Dr. Engleman shares. “My personal philosophy — especially with those getting filler for the first time — is to start with a little filler and have my patients come back in a week or two if they need more to achieve their desired result.”

When we talked to Megan, she was anxious to get back into the office: “She offered me a two week check-in, and I am thinking I want more filler. I know it is a little aggressive considering I was mortified of getting anything done, but I want a little more so that it looks a little plumper.” She subsequently went back for her follow up and got a bit more filler.

### **9. Lip Filler Results Are Immediate But Temporary** 
If are familiar with [neurotoxin injections](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) (i.e. Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®), you know they require a bit of patience. Results can take anywhere from five to 14 days to fully reveal themselves. That is not the case with hyaluronic acid-based filler. “The results are immediate,” Dr. Engelman says. With that said, there is a brief recovery period. “The area will swell and settle within five to seven days,” she adds. 

<BeforeAfterModule
  title={Before & Afters: Temporary Lip Filler}
  procedureId={707}
/>

If you are wondering how long you’ll be enjoying your new lip look, Dr. Engelman says Juvéderm® fillers last about nine to 12 months depending on the patient. Other brands of HA filler may need to be touched up more often (think: every six months), so be sure to ask your provider what you can expect. 

### **10. It’s an Investment**
Last but not least, we need to talk turkey on cost. Lip filler is not cheap. A lip augmentation procedure can cost between $500 and $2,000 dollars, depending on the type and amount of filler, the provider, and your location. In case it’s not clear, that is the cost of each treatment. If you want to maintain your results, you’ll need to budget in that [recurring cost](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-much-cosmetic-surgery-costs) every six to 12 months. As tempting as it may be to look for a discount, this is not the time to be a bargain hunter. Finding a trained provider with proven expertise is essential to avoid unnecessary risk.

## **The Takeaway**
So, what advice does Megan have for anyone considering getting lip filler for the first time? Do your homework. “I feel like I had researched and been thinking about it for so long that there wasn't anything I didn’t know,” she says. Her pre-injection lip care routine was pretty simple (think: Chapstick), but she did like to employ the occasional [lip plumper](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-apply-lipstick) to simulate the results of professional treatment. She’s still using those plumpers to further enhance her pout, and, in the future, she won’t hesitate to go under the needle again. “I am relieved; I am excited; I am happy,” she shares. “I am so glad I finally went through with it.”

From how much it hurts to how long it lasts, we spoke to a first-time patient and her provider about what to expect before, during, and after getting lip filler.

What To Know Before Getting Lip Filler For The First Time

10 Things To Know Before Getting Lip Filler For The First Time

andriyko-podilnyk-F4AMM1293ag-unsplash

“Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.” So said Elizabeth Taylor, and we can’t help but agree that lipstick has transformational powers that are unlike those of any other makeup or beauty product. Originating some 5,000 years ago, lip color has graced the faces of everyone from Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I to the suffragettes and David Bowie with its popularity hardly wavering (Winston Churchill kept lipstick in production during World War II to boost morale!). 

Your [eyes may be taking center stage](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-lengthening-curling-volumizing-mascaras) at the moment with your pout covered by face masks, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the familiar feeling of painting on a lavish lip for a friendly Zoom call, right? Like a great love, a great lipstick will always be there to boost your confidence and make you feel like you can take on the world. In honor of National Lipstick Day, New York-based makeup artist [Junko Kioka](http://www.junkokioka.com/) gives us insider tips on getting the perfect lip, as we round up a few of the best lipsticks to upgrade your smile.

## **How to Get the Perfect Lip Look** 
Whether you favor a head-turning scarlett, love a classic pink, feel your best in a bold orange, or prefer an understated nude, Kioka has a few recommendations for application. To get started, she emphasizes the importance of prepping the pout the same way you would your skin. “Moisturize your lips. I always apply lip balm on models when I prep their skin,” Kioka shares. If your lips are particularly parched, additional care may be needed. “If you have chapped lips, I recommend you [exfoliate](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-ways-to-exfoliate-body-skincare-scrubs-dry-brush) dead skin by using lip scrubs,” she says. “For lip balm, I use [Homeoplasmine](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FHomeoplasmine-Extra-Large-40g%2F102716701), which is sold at French pharmacies and, recently, on Amazon.” 

You’ll want to remove any excess balm before you start applying color. If a long-lasting lip is what you’re after, lip liner is a must. “Apply your lip pencil on your entire lips, then add lipstick with a lip brush, blot with a tissue, and reapply lipstick,” Kioka explains. Those wanting a natural look should opt for a liner one shade darker than the tone of their natural lip. If a stained look is more your style, Kioka suggests applying “a dot of lipstick on the lip and blending the edge out using a fingertip.” 

Depending on your desired outcome, a lip gloss can be used to top off the look. “If you are using lip gloss on top of lipstick, using long-lasting lipstick helps it stay on longer,” Kioka shares. With that in mind, here are the five steps to the perfect pout:

1. Exfoliate with a lip scrub
2. Moisturize with a lip balm
3. Fill in the entire lip with a lip pencil
4. Apply lipstick
5. Top off with a lip gloss (optional)

One thing to avoid at all costs? Rubbing your lips together. “It makes them rough and dry and is a bad move because lipstick will fade much quicker, requiring reapplication,” Kioka warns. Before you walk out the door (or sit down at your computer to Zoom), don’t forget to check your teeth. “The old-school finger trick works great for this,” Kioka says. “Put a finger in your mouth, close your mouth around it and then pull the finger straight out — although, with [COVID-19](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-skincare-experts-changed-product-routines-for-covid-19-masks), a cotton swab may be best now.” 

Ready to upgrade your lipstick wardrobe? Here are a few bullets that are sure to satisfy.

### **For the Showstopper**: Kilian Le Rouge Parfum
![AEDIT-Kilian](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/6BI0Anz3ij0DLG1CiqhFc9/c3dab5484a25ac87c3cca52997812926/AEDIT-Kilian.png)
Day or night, a red lip will always turn heads. When picking a crimson, finding the right shade depends on your complexion. Those with fairer skin should try a blue-based red or cranberry color. Olive complexions glow in a yellow- or orange-based tint, and those with a darker skin tone stun in just about every shade, though purple and brown undertones particularly pop. The [Kilian Le Rouge Parfum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fle-rouge-parfum-scented-lipstick-P449115) line offers an array of matte reds that feel velvety (not drying) and are scented with notes of vanilla and neroli.

### **For the Minimalist**: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk
![AEDIT-Charlotte-Tilbury](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/3G3MDxCmfD5NqM5QYrTJml/d304c84d9da69401a1d0e0f6c3c533ec/AEDIT-Charlotte-Tilbury.png)
It’s no wonder this shade is often sold out, Charlotte Tilbury’s [Superstar Lips in Pillow Talk](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.charlottetilbury.com%2Fus%2Fproduct%2Fsuperstar-lips-pillow-talk) is about as universally flattering as it gets. The rosy neutral offers a subtle wash of satin-finish color that looks good on just about every skin tone. Consider it the lipstick equivalent of your favorite, it-goes-with-everything white t-shirt. 

### **For the Plusher Pout**: Buxom Full Force Plumping Lipstick
![AEDIT-Buxom](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/5iyeh4usASusiSoq11NPmm/f35e987067721b8dbbbdb19754e1269d/AEDIT-Buxom.png)
Whether you’re not quite ready to make the leap to [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) but want fullness or you’re in between treatments and looking for a little extra plumping action, the [Buxom Full Force Plumping Lipstick](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Ffull-force-plumping-lipstick%3FproductId%3Dpimprod2006374) is for you. Formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid and nourishing oils, the slight tingling sensation instantly delivers a visibly plumper, bee-stung look.

### **For the Rebel**: Fenty Beauty  
![AEDIT-Fenty](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/aBci3zPds3tbApliIuA1R/d3dcb71414271681332f14a23975776b/AEDIT-Fenty.png)
In search of a striking shade? Look no further than Rihanna’s [Fenty Beauty](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fentybeauty.com%2Flip%2Flipstick) hues. The brand offers neons, pastels, and rich shades in sheer, matte, and liquid formulas that are designed to complement any complexion. 

### **For the Busy Bee**: Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick 
![AEDIT-PatMcGrath](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2OVMITs1WBqYBkfyibGgK7/f9ca38ce9365494022dc4ee617b2603d/AEDIT-PatMcGrath.png)
Smudge-proof lipstick [dates back to 1950](https://www.nytimes.com/1998/12/10/nyregion/hazel-bishop-92-an-innovator-who-made-lipstick-kissproof.html) and has been a makeup bag must-have ever since. While longwear formulas have historically meant sacrificing moisture for staying power, makeup legend Pat McGrath cracked the code with her [MatteTrance Lipsticks](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.patmcgrath.com%2Fcollections%2Flips%2Fproducts%2Fmattetrance-lipstick). Available in “nudes,” “brights,” and “darks,” the buttery matte bullets are richly pigmented but creamy and stay all day — seriously.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

A great lipstick is like a great love. To celebrate National Lipstick Day, we’re breaking down what you need to know about getting a perfect pout sans injectables.

How To Apply Lipstick

How To Apply Lipstick For A Perfect Pout

shutterstock 298564544 (1)

Lip augmentation is a catchall phrase that involves everything from minimally invasive lip fillers to surgical cosmetic procedures. But regardless of how you define it, treatments that improve the appearance of the lips are among the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States.

While we've heard a lot about how to [increase the size of the lips](https://aedit.com/aedition/when-lip-fillers-are-not-enough), less discussed are treatment options for contouring a shapelier pout — and there is much more to the shape of the mouth than just the upper lip and lower lip. For starters, the highly sensitive pinkish part of the lip is known as the vermillion and is separated from the skin surrounding the mouth by a white roll known as the vermillion border. The central area of the upper lip, meanwhile, is the cupid's bow, and the groove that vertically runs from the cupid's bow portion of the lip to the nose is called the philtrum.

A defined cupid's bow can have a subtle but significant impact on overall shape of the lips, and that little V-shaped area in the middle of the top lip is now being treated with a range of procedures aimed at altering its curvature, reversing signs of aging, and improving contour. Here, we've rounded up three surgical and non-surgical cupid’s bow treatment plans and spoke to patients about their experience with each kind.

## **1. Injectable Fillers**
Dermal fillers are probably the first lip treatment option that comes to mind when you think about enhancing the mouth area. Lip injections are nothing new, but they rose to new fame when full, pillowy pouts (a la Kylie Jenner) became a must-have. But fillers aren't just good for addressing size concerns. They can also be a good option for those looking to mimic the contouring effects of lip liner in a longer lasting way.

Cupid’s bow lip fillers aim to alter the shape of the lip (as opposed to giving an all-round plumper look) for about six to 12 months (i.e. until the product wears off). The temporary nature makes it an ideal option for those looking to dip their toe in the lip enhancement arena without a big commitment. Patients can also ask for their philtrum columns to be filled to further define the cupid’s bow.

### **How do lip fillers work?**
Just like traditional lip augmentation treatments, the lips can be shaped by injecting [temporary hyaluronic acid (HA)-based fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) (like Juvéderm® or Restylane®) around the vermillion border. Technique varies by provider, but your practitioner will inject the product using ‘micro-droplets’ to create subtle definition.

### **What happens during the procedure?**
As with most cosmetic procedures, your appointment will likely start with a consultation during which your board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon will look at the anatomy of the lips and learn about your aesthetic goals. Once it's time to inject, the practitioner will then numb the area (most doctors and patients opt for topical numbing agent) before placing small amounts of filler in the top lip. There is no downtime associated with fillers, though patients may experience side effects including swelling and/or bruising for a couple of days after treatment.

### **Patient Perspective**
*We spoke to Jess, who got filler to define her cupid’s bow because she was looking for a result that wasn’t quite as ‘done’ as more traditional fillers, about her experience with the procedure.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Could you talk us through the procedure?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jess}>
    I had a consultation the week before the procedure, so I was told what to expect during the procedure. I had numbing cream applied over my lips and then my dermatologist injected the filler. She was really gentle! I could feel it, but I wouldn’t say it was painful. It was more a strange sensation than pain. Once the injections were done, she went over aftercare with me again, and that was it. It was quick and easy. The procedure itself definitely shouldn’t put anyone off.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How was the recovery process?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jess}>
    I decided to have my fillers done on a Friday after work to give myself the weekend to get over the bulk of the swelling and bruising. It actually wasn’t as bad as I had imagined. I thought I would need to stay in all weekend, but I ended up actually quite liking the look of my swollen lips! I was lucky to avoid bruising pretty much entirely, too.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jess}>
    The results are exactly what I was looking for. I would actually be more confident to have a more extensive area treated next time. The result is so subtle and elegant — not at all overdone. My cupid’s bow is so much more defined. I’m really pleased with it.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **2. Lip Threading**
A newer treatment on the block, threading (not the hair removal kind) enhances the shape and volume of lips — and the cupid’s bow in particular. The procedure uses fine surgical thread to stimulate collagen production which in turn defines the vermilion border and makes lips look plumper without using fillers. The technique (which focuses more on definition than volume) is the same that is used for [thread lifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/pdo-thread-lift) on other parts of the face.

### **How does lip threading work?**
The treatment involves the placement of a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) thread that the body absorbs over time. The thread is inserted via a fine, tube-like needle, ‘anchored’ at a certain point, and then placed by removing the needle. Unlike fillers, final results develop in the weeks following the treatment, as more collagen is produced and blood flow to the area increases. Like hyaluronic acid fillers, the effects last six to 12 months. Unlike HA fillers, however, thread treatments are not easily reversed and some providers shy away from using threads around the mouth.

### **What happens during the procedure?**
After your consultation, a numbing cream is applied to the treatment area and dental blocks (the same injections you have when you go to the dentist’s office) will be administered. The provider will make incisions on either side of the mouth through which the fine tube with the string will be strung. Once it is properly placed, the tube is gently removed, leaving the thread in its place. While there is no downtime, your mouth area will likely feel numb for a little while after the procedure and swelling and/or bruising may persist for a few days.

### **Patient Perspective**
*After being unhappy with the unnatural results of filler, Jo chose a lip threading procedure to define her vermilion border.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What was your lip threading procedure like?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jo}>
    I had fillers in the past and wanted to try something different. The threading procedure was a bit more invasive than fillers. I had numbing injections for this, which I didn’t have for filler. But once they worked, the procedure was painless. Obviously having any needles near your mouth is going to be unpleasant to a point, but it’s bearable.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How was the recovery process?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jo}>
    I work from home, so I was able to recover away from any prying eyes. There was some bruising that I wouldn’t really have wanted to show off! I could probably have covered it with makeup, but I just left it to run its course and it disappeared after maybe five days or so. Other than that, there was a little bit of pain as the anesthesia wore off on the day of, but I took some painkillers and went to bed. By morning it was fine. If you’re comparing fillers to threads, I would say the recovery was similar but a little more intense for threads.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jo}>
    Yes! They’re different to fillers. I think they look more natural, to be honest. I wasn’t that pleased with my profile look with fillers, but with the thread, my lips look really smooth and natural. My cupid’s bow was the main source of my issues with the area. Now it looks more defined and generally more youthful.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **3. Lip Lift**
For those looking for long term results, [surgical lip lifts](https://aedit.com/aedition/lip-lift-procedure-instead-of-lip-filler) are a great option defining the cupid’s bow and the philtrum columns. The procedure involves surgically removing a section of skin under your nose to  lift the lip, leaving lips looking plumper, more defined, and lifted. It’s a procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia and results are permanent — save for usual signs of aging.

### **How does a lip lift work?**
Lip lifts work by, quite literally, lifting the lip. The rejuvenation procedure removes a small amount of skin between the top lip and the nose to create contoured and youthful-looking upper lip. The surgery is best suited to patients who are happy with the appearance of their lower lip, as the procedure addresses the upper lip only. Rather than add volume (as is the case with the previous two options), a lip lift will add definition and minimize any signs of aging in the area. There are several types of lip lifts that involve different incision placements and results. Consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon will ensure you receive the best treatment for your anatomy (for example, you will need a minimum distance of about 0.7 inches between the top of your lip and your nose to be eligible).

### **What happens during the procedure?**
During your initial consultation, your surgeon will advise on the type of lip lift that is best for you. On the day of the procedure, the surgeon will mark the incision sites and administer a local anesthetic injection to numb the area. A mild sedative may also be given to help patients relax. The hour-long procedure involves the surgeon removing the skin and securing the lower incision to the base of the nose to create an instant lift effect. Dissolvable sutures are usually used to close the wound, and there are about seven to 10 days of downtime. While the final results are immediately visible, a lip lift surgery takes three to six months to heal.

### **Patient Perspective**
*Emma had a lip lift to combat signs of aging around her mouth, including her cupid’s bow that was becoming less defined as she got older.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What was your lip lift procedure like?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emma}>
    I was given the option of having general anesthesia or local, and I opted for local. The first step was a few injections, which were not too pleasant but totally fine. Then I felt a little bit of pressure — no pain — while my surgeon did his thing, and I was told very clearly to let them know if I felt any discomfort. After the procedure, I had to wait around for a while for the nurse to approve that I was able to go home, and I was told about the aftercare instructions again. It was probably the most straightforward part of the process, to be honest.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    How was the recovery process? 
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emma}>
    I took a week off work mostly to give myself a chance to not look terrible before going back to the office, but it wasn’t too bad. There was a certain level of swelling and bruising, but I had instructions on how to deal with that by icing the area and so forth. I had some painkillers to take, and I needed them for the first three days but was fine after that. The scar healed really well. It took longer than I would have expected, and I needed to be cautious with sun exposure to avoid damaging the new tissue, but it wasn’t too bad overall.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Are you pleased with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emma}>
    The surgery achieved the result I was looking for. My lips look more youthful and defined again. And it’s permanent, so I don’t need to fuss around with fillers every few months, which is great. I think as long as people are aware of the recovery process and they can take some time off during those initial few days then it’s a great option.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

A defined cupid's bow can have a subtle but significant impact on the overall shape of the lips. In honor of National Lip Appreciation Day, The AEDITION is rounding up three surgical and non-surgical procedures for a perkier pout.

Lip Augmentation Procedures For A More Defined Cupid's Bow

Why Cupid’s Bow Procedures Are The Next Generation Of Lip Augmentation

shutterstock 484747084-min

Even before Kylie Jenner released her first Lip Kit or filled, unfilled, and refilled her famous pout, Americans have had an obsession with lips. Sometime in the last decade, plumping pouts with filler became almost as common as highlighting hair — just one more thing to add to the beauty maintenance list.

While temporary, hyaluronic acid-based [lip fillers](https://aedit.com/procedure/temporary-lip-fillers) like Restylane® are synonymous with a voluptuous (read: Instagram-friendly) smile, they only offer short-term results. So, it should come as no suprise that longer lasting fixes have started to take hold. According to the [American Society of Plastic Surgeons](https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2018/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2018.pdf), there were nearly 31,000 surgical (i.e. non-injectable) lip augmentations performed in the U.S. in 2018 — a 66 percent increase from 2000 and 4 percent boost from the previous year.

## **The Rise of Lip Lifts**
So, what's behind the surge? The [lip lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/modified-lip-lift), a far-from-new but largely under-the-radar surgical procedure is breaking the bee-sting barrier with permanent results that are customizable and appear naturally full with nary a "trout mouth" or "duck lip" in sight. “In-office lip lifts are super hot right now,” says Philadelphia-based board certified facial plastic surgeon [Jason Bloom, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-bloom-md-2248). “Surgeons have really perfected the technique so that lips are actually rolled out and rejuvenated.” 

## **The Procedure**
For the uninitiated, the lip surgery raises the edges of the lips (a.k.a the vermilion border), causing the pout to look larger and plusher. “You’re essentially releasing the red part of your top lip that lies underneath, so the upper lip looks fuller and bee-stung,” says Dr. Bloom.

Long coupled with a [facelift](https://aedit.com/procedure/deep-plane-facelift), stand-alone lip lifts are now a common cosmetic surgery request. Ideal for patients who are (a) tired of the maintenance associated with [lip injections](https://aedit.com/procedure/semipermanent-lip-fillers) or (b) want a more natural-looking result, the 90-minute operation is performed under local anesthesia in a plastic surgeon’s office and can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000.

During the procedure, the surgeon carves a [bullhorn-shaped](https://aedit.com/procedure/subnasal-bull-horn-lip-lift) strip of skin below the nostrils to pull up the philtrum (the space between the Cupid's bow and base of the nose). In doing so, the inner part of the upper lip is revealed and the shape and appearance of the pout is enhanced. 

“As we decrease the length of the philtrum, the area under the top lip is rolled out and maximized,” says Dr. Bloom. “The larger the wedge of tissue you remove, the more significant the pout, so you are able to customize the effect, and the results are permanent. Your face continues to age, of course, but you don’t need to worry about coming in every six months.”

That personalized fullness is exactly what Jayne, a 41-year-old sales rep, had in mind when she opted for a stand-alone lip lift surgery after seeing her mother have it done as a part of a facelift. “Her lips looked more youthful and fuller — but still like her lips,” she says. “It was a beautiful effect overall.” 

The results were just what she hoped for: a youthfully plump pout that completely changed her beauty routine. “They work perfectly with my face and feel great because they’re all mine,” Jayne says of her new lips. “It’s not something I ever achieved with filler. I don’t even use lip liner anymore. I can wear a little bit of gloss and it looks clean and neat and just right.”

## **Lip Lift Recovery**
While the end result is a permanently poutier pout, patience is required during the recovery process. For the first five days post-surgery, Dr. Bloom encourages patients to wear a surgical mask to conceal the significant puffiness (tightness and tension in the lip area is also common) around the mouth. During this time, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers are a girl's best friend.

Around the two-week mark, the swelling is typically reduced and patients can return to regular activities. A bit of concealer may be needed up to six weeks post-op as the incision heals, and it may take six months or more for the mark to fully fade.

"The key to having a good result and avoiding scarring under the nose is meticulous planning and suturing,” Dr. Bloom explains. “Make sure you have a cosmetic surgeon who is well-versed in understanding how the lip functions and where the tension comes from that supports the upper lip.”

Fortunately, even the lengthy recovery couldn't dampen Jayne's enthusiasm for her lip lift results. “There’s no question that the downtime was significant,” she shares. “It was a couple of weeks of just humongous swollen lips, but now I love them.”

Now Trending

When most people think of lip enhancement, they think of fillers. But lip lifts provide a more defined Cupid's bow and crisper edges so you can skip lip liner all together.