Do you really need lip fillers?

There was a time when the only way to achieve fuller, plumper lips was by visiting your aesthetician for lip fillers. The demand for fuller lips soared in the late 2010s, and it was largely fueled by influencers and celebrities like Kylie Jenner, who made luscious, pillowy pouts the beauty standard. But in 2024, the beauty industry has evolved significantly, offering alternatives like plumping glosses, lip masks, and the art of overlining—making lip fillers less common. This begs the question: in the age of DIY hacks and non-invasive enhancements, do you really still need lip fillers?

Lip fillers, made primarily from hyaluronic acid, gained popularity for their immediate and semi-permanent results. A well-executed filler could transform thin lips into plump, natural-looking ones within minutes; it seemed like a magic fix for many people looking to achieve lasting fullness. However, over time, the downsides became more apparent—issues like overfilling, lumpy results, and migration were common. While some love the idea of walking out of an appointment with a brand-new pout, others have started to experience "filler fatigue". Maintenance appointments, the hefty price tag, and the risks of "duck lips" led beauty enthusiasts to explore other options. Even celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Ariana Grande among others have dissolved their fillers and chosen to go au naturale. So what is the alternative? We have a few options. 

Lip plumpers

If you want fuller lips without the needles, lip plumpers are your go-to. These products have come a long way, with glosses and balms now infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peppermint, or capsicum extract to give your lips a quick boost—no appointment needed. The beauty of plumpers is that they’re quick, non-invasive, and affordable. Too Faced’s Lip Injection and Dior’s Lip Maximizer deliver a tingling sensation followed by a subtle yet noticeable pout enhancement. No, they won’t give you the volume of fillers, but they offer an option for people who prefer a natural look with less commitment.

The power of overlining

Looking for another weapon in the lip arsenal? Lip liner. Overlining your lips has become a major trend in itself, made popular by make-up artists and influencers who swear by the illusion of fuller lips through careful application. By drawing slightly outside the natural lip line and filling in with matching lipstick, you can achieve that fuller lip look without a single prick. The great thing about overlining is its versatility. You can customise the effect based on your mood—subtle one day, bold the next. It’s a non-committal approach to lip plumping that also gives you the freedom to experiment. A key tip: using a lip liner in a slightly darker shade than your lipstick will give you that 3D, pouty effect that enhances natural fullness.

Choosing what’s right for you

So, do you still need fillers in a world full of plumpers and overlining techniques? It depends on what you’re after. If you want a long-lasting, dramatic effect that cuts out daily upkeep, lip fillers may still be the better option. But for those looking to dip into fullness without the commitment (or the price tag) modern lip plumpers and strategic overlining offer compelling alternatives. The best part is that you no longer have to choose between a permanent procedure and thin lips. You can have a plump pout for a night out with a swipe of gloss or a perfect overline, or opt for a longer-lasting effect with fillers. In 2024, it's all about personal preference—and the fact that you have plenty of options at your disposal. Ultimately, the best lip-plumping strategy is the one that makes you feel your most confident, whether that’s temporary or semi-permanent. Your pout, your rules.

Below are some of our favourite products to overline and plump.

Too Faced Lip Injection, ₹2,040

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer, ₹3,900

MAC Lip Pencil, ₹2,300

Rare Beauty Kind Words Lip Liner, ₹1,900

NARS Precision Lip Liner, ₹2,250

Kay Beauty Tinted Lip Plumping Gloss, ₹999

e.l.f. Cosmetics Lip Plumping Gloss, ₹900

Feature image: Kylie Cosmetics/Sky Communications

Also read: Dissolving fillers is so in!

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