Full, luscious lips are a trademark of beauty all over the globe. Because of the beauty standard, many people will try anything to increase and perfect the look of their lips, including the application of excessive makeup or even plastic surgery.

One of the most popular methods for achieving a fuller lip is with Botox treatments, traditionally lip filler. However, there is a growing trend that focuses on flipping the top lip upwards, providing a similar result. The option that best suits you might vary from that which suits your friends.

Understanding Lip Flip

The lip flip procedure uses a neuromodulator injected above the upper lip into the orbicularis oris muscle — the muscle that allows you to roll your lips under or make a kissy face. The injection of the Botox or Dysport will cause the muscle to relax, which results in the upward roll of the lip, exposing the vermillion and creating the appearance of more volume.

Despite the relative newness of the term "lip flip," the procedure is not new. Therefore, any hesitation you might have regarding a lack of data is unfounded. Doctors have been successfully performing lip flips for years. While there are some warnings floating around on social media, the professional consensus is when working with a qualified injector, there are minimal risks.

Understanding Lip Filler

While a lip flip requires the injection of a neuromodulator into the area above the lip, a lip filler uses a dermal filler injected directly into the lip area to increase volume. A lip filler is a gel-like substance, and according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there are various brands that all achieve unique aesthetics. For instance, polylactic acid-based products are excellent for adding volume to thin lips, while hyaluronic acid-based fillers help plump and redefine borders.

Fillers will also change the firmness of your lips. The thicker the filler is, the firmer the lips. Also, the longer the filler lasts will also have an effect on the texture of the lips, with longer-lasting options resulting in firmer lips.

Additionally, lip fillers tend to be more versatile than neuromodulators like Botox. Fillers allow surgeons to accentuate specific parts of the lip, such as the Cupid's bow. It is also possible to fill parts of the lip that help accentuate dimples. Finally, fillers can be used on both the top and bottom lips to add volume.

Choosing Between the Two

The lip flip is a more subtle option, and it is most beneficial for patients with an upper lip that tends to tuck under when smiling. Lip filler is the brute force option, and you will notice the difference.

While choosing is difficult, it is essential to note that it is unnecessary. You can use both options concurrently. However, if you are on the fence about changing your look, consider starting with the lip flip to see how you like the subtle change. Also, remember that neither option is permanent, so no harm, no foul.

Do you think you will try a lip flip or use lip filler?

Do you ever get startled when you look at your reflection in the mornings? Dark and heavy bags under your eyes can make you look more like a zombie than a living, breathing person. Fortunately, there are things you can do to fight under-eye circles and puffiness. Here are five easy tricks that work well for me. Hopefully, they’ll help you get your youthful under-eyes back as well!

1. Reduce Your Salt Intake

Sometimes, water retention can lead to inflammation in various parts of the body—including under the eyes. If you notice your under-eye bags seem to get more noticeable after eating high-salt meals, take steps to reduce your salt intake. I know, salt makes everything taste better and it’s hard to cut back on it. However, there are a lot of great substitutes for salt, including salt-free seasoning blends that pack in lots of flavor with the use of herbs and spices.

2. Try a Neti Pot

This tip may sound weird (what does your nose have to do with your eyes, right?) but it might be your secret solution to getting rid of your under-eye bags. A neti pot is a pretty simple (and ancient) remedy you can use to clear out your sinuses. Sometimes puffiness under the eyes can be a direct result of sinus inflammation from seasonal allergies, infections or colds.

Neti pots use saline water to rinse out your sinuses. Just follow the instructions that come with your pot to get started. Be careful not to use tap water, since this increases your risk of contaminating your sinuses with a dangerous amoeba. Instead, always use distilled water with your neti pot.

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3. Supplement Your Diet With Collagen

Collagen is the protein that’s responsible for keeping our skin elastic and stretchy. It’s the most abundant protein found in the human body, but we start producing less of it as we age. Decreased collagen is one of the main causes of under-eye bags.

You can get more collagen in your diet or boost your body’s production of collagen by eating foods like chicken bone broth, leafy greens and wild-caught salmon. If you already eat these foods and still struggle with under-eye bags, it may be time to add a collagen supplement to your diet.

4. Try a Cold Compress

When you need to reduce under-eye puffiness right away, one of the best things to do is apply a cold compress to your eyes. I personally like to use cucumber slices because they contain antioxidants that can help fight the effects of aging. They also feel very soothing to the entire eye area. It may seem weird to put food on your face, but give it a try. You won’t regret it!

5. Remove Your Makeup at Night

My final tip for fighting under-eye bags is to remove makeup at night—without exceptions. It’s easy to fall straight into bed after a night of partying or a busy day running errands, but leaving all that stuff on your face can irritate your eyes. It only takes a few minutes to remove your makeup, so get into the habit today.

These tricks are all pretty simple, but they can become powerful tools for combatting under-eye puffiness. Give them a try today. Your eyes will thank you.

Tag: Aesthetic

Lip Flip Versus Lip Filler: Which Option Is Right For You