Is it time to kiss lip fillers goodbye?
Each week our experts Dr AAMER KHAN and LESLEY REYNOLDS bring you the latest beauty news and anti-ageing advice
KYLIE JENNER, half-sister of reality TV star Kim Kardashian, started having lip fillers at 16 and her pout helped build her a multimillion-dollar make-up brand. But last week Kylie revealed that she had “got rid” of her filler and was reverting to her natural pout. It’s unclear how she did it. The new mum, 20, may have let the fillers dissolve naturally or may have had injections to reverse the procedure.
Either way, her news has sparked reports that the inflated pout is on the way out to be replaced by a more natural, understated shape.
We’ll certainly be glad to see the trend for over-inflated lips pass. Used well, fillers shouldn’t make your lips look dramatically different or artificially big. They can add definition and plumpness, resulting in a more flattering shape.
Of course, the result depends on the experience of the doctor you choose, so do your research before having any cosmetic treatment. But if you would prefer to perk up your pout naturally, read our top tips for shapely lips – no fillers required.
You want to… BOOST VOLUME
Natural lip-plumping products typically contain ingredients such as cinnamon, peppermint, ginger or menthol, which cause lips to swell.
They need to be applied several times a day as the effects last only for a couple of hours.
Try Code Lip Intense Plumper, £20 (codebeautiful.com) which has peppermint oil and hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate.
Dab a small dot of highlighting concealer on your Cupid’s bow and under your bottom lip before applying lipstick to give the impression of a fuller pout. Adding a high-shine nude shade of gloss on top will make lips stand out even more. Try Laura Geller’s Nude Kisses, £16 (debenhams.com).
You want to… DISGUISE LIP LINES
A lip primer is the best way to stop lipstick from bleeding. It will also make lips look fuller. Try CYO Night Feed Overnight Lip Primer, £4 (boots.com) which nourishes lips and makes them feel moisturised.
Laser treatment is a more permanent way to banish deeper lines above the lips. During the treatment, laser energy is used to make tiny holes in the skin.
The skin’s natural healing process stimulates the production of new collagen, tightening and thickening the epidermis. The area treated will be red and peel for a few days. Sun protection must be worn in order to protect the new skin and prevent hyperpigmentation marks. Results last up to three years. From £500.
You want to… RESTORE SHAPE
As we age, the lip line can fade or look less defined. Lip liner is an inexpensive quick fix that can restore the natural shape in seconds. Using a neutral lip pencil, softly round the outer corners of the lips and the Cupid’s bow. Try Natural Collection Lip Liner, £2.99 (boots.com), a great bargain buy that suits most lip shades.
Microblading is an ultra natural form of semi-permanent make-up that can be used to restore the lip line. The treatment begins by numbing the lips using local anaesthetic.
Next, pigment that has been colour matched for a perfect result is implanted under the skin using a tiny blade to define the outer line of the lips. After the treatment, lips may be red and swollen for a few days. Results last up to three years, depending on how fast the injected pigment is absorbed. From £500.
You want to… REHYDRATE
Your lips are susceptible to sun damage so it’s important to apply a nourishing lip balm that contains a high SPF regularly, especially during the summer. Try Blistex Ultra Lip Balm SPF 50, £2.99 (boots.com). Choose a lipstick that contains nourishing ingredients to give dry lips an extra hydration boost. Try Nu Colour Power Lips, £18.38 (nuskin.com) which is smudge-proof and contains moisturising vitamin E and beeswax.
Regular exfoliation will help boost circulation, smooth rough skin and stimulate cell renewal so lips look plumper and healthier. Try Lanolips Lemonaid Lip Aid with Lemon Oil, £7.99 (boots.com) which acts as a natural exfoliator and leaves a healthy sheen. For a home remedy, dip a very soft bristled toothbrush in lip balm. Gently move it over the lips in small, light circular movements to exfoliate. Wipe off excess lip balm and apply a fresh layer to protect the skin.
For advice on cosmetic surgery, consult your GP. For most of Lesley’s tips see lesleyreynolds.com