Okay, girls, gather 'round! Let's talk lips. Specifically, how to get a little extra oomph without breaking the bank or, you know, going full-on surgery. I've been experimenting with DIY lip plumpers for ages, and I've finally landed on a combo that actually works for me: cinnamon and coconut oil. Seriously, it's so simple, you'll kick yourself for not trying it sooner!
Why DIY Lip Plumping?
So, why bother with DIY when there are tons of lip plumping glosses and treatments out there? Well, for starters, it's way more affordable. Plus, I'm all about knowing exactly what I'm putting on my skin. Some of those commercial plumpers can be packed with harsh chemicals that irritate my lips. No, thank you!
And, honestly, it's kinda fun! It feels like a little beauty science experiment in your own kitchen. Plus, it aligns with my journey of using more natural products in my routine. Speaking of which, have you checked out my post on Reverse Skin Cycling Saved My Sensitive Skin!? It's all about gentle but effective skincare.
The Magic Duo: Cinnamon and Coconut Oil
Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Why these two ingredients?
Cinnamon: This is the star of the show. Cinnamon acts as a mild irritant, increasing blood flow to your lips. This causes them to swell slightly, giving you that plumped-up look. Be careful, though! Too much cinnamon can be too* irritating. We're going for a subtle tingle, not a burning sensation!
* Coconut Oil: This is where the magic happens. Coconut oil is super moisturising and helps to soothe your lips. It also acts as a carrier for the cinnamon, making it easier to apply and preventing it from being too harsh. Plus, it smells amazing!
My Go-To Recipe (and How to Use It!)
This is what I do - and it works a treat. I've tried a few variations but here is the one that always comes out on top.
Ingredients:
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon coconut oil (I use the organic, unrefined kind from Lucy Bee)
Instructions:
Emma's Top Tips for Lip Plumping Success
Okay, so I've learned a few things along the way. Here are my top tips for getting the best results:
* Start slow: If you have sensitive skin, start with a tiny amount of cinnamon and gradually increase it as you get used to it. I'm serious about this! You don't want to end up with swollen, irritated lips.
* Do a patch test: Before applying the mixture to your lips, test it on a small area of your skin (like your inner arm) to make sure you're not allergic to cinnamon.
* Don't overdo it: Use this treatment no more than once or twice a week. Overdoing it can dry out your lips and cause irritation. I've been using it for almost two months and I do it twice a week, max.
* Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your lips hydrated. Dehydrated lips are more prone to irritation.
* Exfoliate first: Gently exfoliate your lips before applying the plumper to remove any dead skin cells. This will help the plumping mixture to penetrate better. I use a soft toothbrush and some coconut oil to exfoliate.
* Follow with hydration: After removing the plumper, apply a hydrating lip mask or balm. I've been obsessed with the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask lately. It's seriously amazing!
What if It Doesn't Work?
Okay, so here's the honest truth: this DIY lip plumper might not work for everyone. We're all different, and our skin reacts differently to different ingredients. If you don't see any results, don't be discouraged! There are other things you can try.
Maybe try a different ratio of cinnamon to coconut oil. Or, you could try adding a tiny drop of peppermint oil to the mixture (peppermint oil also has a plumping effect). But be very careful with peppermint oil – it's potent!
Also, remember that the results are temporary. This isn't a permanent fix. The plumping effect will usually last for about an hour or two. It's perfect if you want a little boost before a night out or a special occasion.
Other Natural Lip Plumping Options
If cinnamon isn't your thing, there are other natural ingredients you can try. Some people swear by cayenne pepper (but I'm too scared to try that!), while others use ginger or peppermint oil. Remember, always do a patch test before applying anything to your lips.
And don't forget the power of lip liner! A well-applied lip liner can create the illusion of fuller lips. I love the Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Pillow Talk. It's a classic for a reason.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My secret to DIY lip plumping with cinnamon and coconut oil. It's easy, affordable, and (most importantly) it works! Give it a try and let me know what you think. And if you're looking for more natural beauty tips, be sure to check out my other posts, like Moisturiser Before Cleanser?! My Skin LOVES It! or Reverse Hair Washing? My Honest Thoughts!.
Remember, beauty is all about having fun and experimenting. So, go ahead and play around with different ingredients and techniques until you find what works best for you. And most importantly, love the lips you're born with! Because you are beautiful, just the way you are. But a little plumping never hurt anyone, right?
Happy plumping, girls!
Love,
Emma x