I'm a sucker for marketing.
Buzzwords are my kryptonite.
Hydrating? Well, yeah sure, you're a moisturiser.
Soothing? Yep, I know skincare can do that.
But call a beauty product "Juicy Sunbeam Plumping Water Glow Radiant Potion" and I'm adding it to cart immediately. Even if it costs $300.
Watch: Leigh Campbell tries the 'diamond lips' trend on You Beauty podcast. P0st continues below.
Plumping is the one skincare claim I'm immediately drawn to. Probably because I'm in my 40s and I'm tired and feel exhausted and I want something that makes me look like I just got back from a yoga retreat in 2014…but I only want to spend 30 seconds using it.
So, can skincare really 'plump'?
It depends on your expectations.
Nothing applied topically is going to restore your buccal fat (the chubby part of your cheeks) to its original position before gravity took hold, and no ingredient can wash away the lines on your forehead or around your eyes and mouth with just one swipe.
So, with expectations set to 'realistic', the good news is that yes, some creams, serums and lotions can plump in that they help retain moisture within the skin.
I'd say only you will notice, but using plumping ingredients on the regular will mean you’ll feel your face is a little more fresh, filled out, or 'bouncier'.
Want in on the plumping action? Here are three options I reckon are decent: