Why Are Full Lips Attractive?
According to a statistic report issued by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2017, there has been an increase in the number of people seeking surgical lip augmentation in the U.S. by 5 percent annually since 2016. And over the past 15 years, the number of surgical lip augmentation increased by 60 percent. If you are not keen to undergo a surgical procedure to get a fuller pout, there are other ways to achieve the same outcome for a more luscious lip. In this article, Dr. Siew Tuck Wah, Medical Director of Radium Medical Aesthetics shares with us his views on why women desire fuller lips and what makes them so attractive.
Full lips have long been desired by women because they signify youth and femininity. Evolutionary psychology also suggests that women with a full pout are often associated with a strong mating potential. One of the most visible signs of ageing is a pair of thin and flat lips. This is because as collagen production slows down, your once-luscious lips become deflated. Conversely, when we picture younger women, we imagine them to have fuller lips.
There is an evolutionary basis to our preference for fuller lips. In the early days of man, facial features gave others an idea about our biological health. Sexually dimorphic features are an indication of reproductive health. In women, these features include large eyes, high eyebrows, small noses, and of course, full lips. Even today, we associate these features as being attractive and feminine.
The desire for fuller lips is also partially fuelled by social media. In recent years, the demand for thicker, more luscious lips has skyrocketed because of social media influencers like Kylie Jenner. A viral craze late last year had impressionable young girls attempting to use eyelash glue to stick the top of the lip to the cupid’s bow, making the upper lip appear larger. However, please remember that it is important not to get caught up in trends. Getting a pair of lips that are youthful, hydrated, and proportionate to the face create balance and symmetry.
What are some tricks and tips for thicker, fuller lips?
Keep your lips hydrated with lip balm. You can also opt for specialty lip serums to plump up the lips further. These products, such as the fresh sugar lip serum, often contain silicone and hyaluronic acid to keep your lips hydrated. Don’t underestimate the power of make-up. With skilful application of lip liner, lip gloss and lipstick, you can create the impression of fuller lips without having to undergo treatments.
For people who are keen to explore a longer lasting pout that can last for about 1 year, you can opt for lip filler injections. This non-surgical procedure involves using a tiny needle to inject hyaluronic acid into the lining and body of the lips. After the treatment, you get more volume, more defined lip shape, and better hydration.
Many people are often reluctant to undergo lip filler treatment because they are worried that they will end up looking unnatural. An experienced doctor with a keen eye for beauty will be able to control the amount of fillers injected into the lips. Natural is key – Discuss with your doctor to understand the treatment process and what the final outcome will be. Lip filler injections usually last between 6 and 9 moths. They are generally very safe if you go to a certified health professional as serious complications may arise if the procedure is not done properly. At Radium Medical Aesthetics, you will walk out looking more refreshed, but never like the bee-stung caricatures you see on Instagram.
