Even though I was handed down a fairly plump pout from my parents, there are still moments where I wish my lips were even bigger. My desire for bigger lips is not unique — according to statistics published by the National Society of Plastic Surgery, there were over 25,000 lip augmentation procedures done in 2013 alone. I'm actually surprised that number isn't higher, but with the amount of home remedies for bigger lips out there, something tells me that more and more people are opting for natural treatments and DIY lip enhancers.
Not everyone has seen pleasant results with at home lip enhancers, though. In fact, there are quite a few horror stories out there that should make you think twice about the method you're using. Sources at the Daily Star revealed one aspiring model's at home lip plumping horror story. After using the lid of a hair spray bottle that others promised would give a fuller pout, Gail Scott was left with temporary bruises around her lips and in some serious discomfort.
Fortunately, these natural lip enhancers can be applied in the comfort of your own home, sans pain for your lips and your wallet. Here's a helpful tip: these temporary lip plumpers work best on freshly exfoliated lips.
Cinnamon Lip Plumper
Cinnamon is no doubt a pout's best friend and there are plenty of DIY recipes with cinnamon as the main ingredient. For this particular recipe, use:
- 1 teaspoon of beeswax
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Leave your plumper on for about 10 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
I've used this plumper without rinsing off before and found no irritation, but I didn't notice the results lasting longer than when I did rinse it off.
Cayenne Pepper Plumper
Before you judge this powerful spice, cayenne pepper is rich in vitamin E and is known to stimulate blood flow. It's definitely a great way to get a great pout too!
- Make a paste with olive oil and cayenne pepper and apply directly on your lips for 5 minutes.
If you have an aversion to cayenne pepper, definitely test your paste on your skin first. Don't let the tingle get to you, it's only temporary!
Cocoa Peppermint Plumper
This one will have your eating your lips all day, if the urge is too strong, please eat a York Peppermint Patty so your lips can stay pouty even longer.
- Add 4-6 drops of peppermint essential oil to raw cocoa butter and apply directly on your lips.
You don't need to rinse this plumper off, and you can reapply for throughout the day. Bonus: it doubles as a great way to cure chapped lips!
Images: Fotolia; Kristin Collins Jackson
