Cinnamon isn’t just for your coffee or cookies—it’s a spicy secret weapon for plump, luscious lips. With its natural warming sensation and delicious scent, these DIY recipes make it easy to add a little extra volume and hydration to your lips. Try one of these homemade cinnamon lip plumper recipes and see the magic for yourself!
Jump to:
- Does Cinnamon Really Plump Your Lips?
- Cinnamon usage tips:
- —Sugar and Ground Cinnamon Lip Scrub
- —Cinnamon Extract + Vaseline Red Hot Lip Gloss
- —Tinted Cinnamon Glow Lip Gloss
- —Spicy Cinnamon Kiss Lip Plumping Oil
- —Cinnamon + Coconut Lip Balm
- —Cinnamon + Shea Butter Salve
- —Whipped Cinnamon Lip Butter
- —Cinnamon Powder + Cayenne DIY Lip Plumper
- —Cinnamon and Honey Lip Mask
- —Chilled Cinnamon Lip Gel
- FAQ
Does Cinnamon Really Plump Your Lips?
Yes! The irritation increases blood flow to your lips for a short-lived naturally fuller effect.
Warming Sensation: Cinnamon oil contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that slightly irritates the skin (in a good way!). This irritation increases blood flow, giving lips a natural reddish tint and a fuller appearance.
Stimulates Circulation: The warming effect of cinnamon oil enhances microcirculation in the lips, causing them to swell slightly and look plumper.
Soothes Chapped Lips: Cinnamon can also be good for chapped lips. Full of powerful antioxidants and polyphenols, cinnamon also has the ability to repair damaged tissue [source]. And, thanks to its antibacterial properties, cinnamon may even help prevent recurrent painful fissures or splitting of the lips.
Cinnamon usage tips:
- Patch test first! Before you put anything on your lips, dab some on a spot like the inside of your arm and see how it feels.
- Use cinnamon leaf essential oil: It has a milder aroma and is less irritating to the skin than cinnamon bark oil.
- Or try ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be mixed with a carrier like coconut oil or honey for a gentle, exfoliating, and plumping effect.
- Start small: When working with cinnamon essential oil, start with just the barest drop of oil mixed in with your base, and if it isn’t irritating the skin on your arm, give it a shot on your lips.
- It's temporary: Sorry, the plumping effect is temporary, typically lasting 1–2 hours. You can reapply as needed, but avoid overdoing it to prevent irritation.
- Too much cinnamon? If your lips feel too irritated, rinse them with cool water and apply a soothing balm or aloe vera gel. Avoid using the product again until your lips are fully healed.
- More natural plumpers: Pair cinnamon with cayenne pepper for extra stimulation, peppermint oil for a cooling sensation, or honey for added hydration.
Here are some creative DIY ways to use cinnamon—whether as an essential oil, spice, or extract—to create natural lip plumpers. 💋
—Sugar and Ground Cinnamon Lip Scrub
The cinnamon powder gently stimulates the lips, while honey and olive oil hydrate.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- ½ tablespoon raw honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the above ingredients in a small bowl.
- Buff Lips: Apply to lips with fingertips and gently slough off dry, dead skin cells by scrubbing in circular motions. It is important to use a gentle technique and not over-exfoliate to prevent small tears in the skin.
- Rinse + Repeat: Rinse with warm water and follow with lip balm. Use this scrub once or twice a week
How it works
A little exfoliation will prep your lips to receive the healing properties of lip balm treat the chapped lips that occasionally accompany the season. Not to mention it'll leave your lips naturally plumper—and smelling of fall! Double win!
—Cinnamon Extract + Vaseline Red Hot Lip Gloss
Looking for a glossy and nourishing lip plumper with a hint of spice? This cinnamon-infused gloss is the perfect DIY solution for soft, shiny, and naturally fuller lips.
Ingredients
- Lipstick
- Un-petroleum jelly
- Almond oil
- Cinnamon extract or flavor
- Lip gloss container
Instructions
- Melt Jelly + Lipstick: Put a glob of petroleum jelly in a microwave-safe bowl and add a small bit of lipstick. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir to combine. If needed, microwave for a few more seconds until everything is melted.
- Stir Well: You want the lipstick pigment to be completely dissolved in the jelly.
- Add Oil + Extract: Add a few drops of almond oil and 3-5 drops of cinnamon extract. Pour mixture into a lip gloss container and let cool before using.
How it works
Almond makes everything a little softer and more nourishing, plus adds a nice natural shine. A little bit of cinnamon goes a long way so use a dropper to avoid overdoing it with the cinnamon. We want our lips to look and feel good! Check the flavor - add more if you want it hotter!
—Tinted Cinnamon Glow Lip Gloss
Add a pop of color and plump to your lips with this glossy DIY creation. Infused with cinnamon essential oil and beetroot powder, it’s perfect for a naturally vibrant and fuller pout.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 2 teaspoon castor oil
- 1 teaspoon beeswax
- 2 drops cinnamon essential oil
- A pinch of beetroot powder (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Melt the Base: In a double boiler, melt the beeswax with the coconut and castor oils. Stir until fully combined.
- Add Color and Scent: Stir in the cinnamon essential oil and beetroot powder. Mix well.
- Pour and Set: Pour the mixture into a clean gloss tube or jar. Let it cool and solidify.
How it works
Cinnamon essential oil stimulates circulation, creating a mild tingling sensation that plumps your lips. The beetroot powder adds a natural tint for a glossy, vibrant finish.
—Spicy Cinnamon Kiss Lip Plumping Oil
Give your lips a naturally fuller look with this easy, two-ingredient lip plumper. The spicy warmth of cinnamon is gently infused into a nourishing oil, creating a perfect base for glosses, balms, or as a standalone lip oil.
Ingredients
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- ¼ to ½ cup jojoba oil or almond oil
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Place a fresh cinnamon stick in a clean glass jar or bottle.
- Add the Oil: Pour the jojoba or almond oil over the cinnamon stick, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
- Infuse: Seal the container and store it in a warm, dry spot for 3–5 days, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain and Store: Strain the oil through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove debris. Transfer the infused oil to a clean container.
- Use: Dab a small amount on your lips or use a rollerball applicator for a mess-free, luxurious application. You can also use this oil in DIY lip gloss and balm recipes.
How it works
Infusing the cinnamon stick in the oil creates a naturally flavored plumping oil. The infusion process allows the cinnamon to release its properties gently for safe and effective use.
—Cinnamon + Coconut Lip Balm
Keeping your lips soft and moisturized keeps them looking a bit fuller than they otherwise would—at least in my experience. The vitamin E in this recipe will not only add to the lip balm’s shelf life, but it will also increase its hydration factor.
Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties [source] that protect the skin from the sun’s harmful effects and damage from toxins and the environment.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 2–3 vitamin E capsules
- ¾ tablespoon raw honey
- 5 drops cinnamon essential oil
- lip balm containers or little jars
Instructions
- Melt Wax: In a double boiler, combine the coconut oil and beeswax. Over low heat, stir until both are completely melted.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer your plumping lip balm to have a firmer consistency, you can increase the amount of beeswax and decrease the coconut oil. And if you prefer a softer balm, reduce the beeswax and add more coconut oil.
- Add Oil + Honey: Remove from heat, then add the vitamin E (puncture the capsules and squeeze), honey, and essential oil.
- Pour Into Containers: Transfer to lip balm tins. Keep stirring as the balm sets to keep the honey distributed. You’ll have about 5–10 minutes until the product begins to solidify.
How it works
Use the lip balm whenever your lips feel like they need a pick me up and some extra moisture and enjoy the cinnamon scent while its plumping your lips.
—Cinnamon + Shea Butter Salve
Ingredients
—½ ounce shea butter
—1 to 4 drops cinnamon essential oil
Instructions
- Soften Shea: Heat the butter in the microwave for a few seconds, if needed.
- Add Cinnamon Oil: Add one drop of cinnamon oil and stir.
- Adjust: See how your skin and lips react. Add another drop, if desired, and check again. Add drops as needed.
- Transfer to Container: Transfer to a small jar or tin with a lid.
How it works
Shea butter hydrates and protects lips while cinnamon oil adds natural plumpness.
—Whipped Cinnamon Lip Butter
Indulge your lips with this luxurious whipped lip butter. Cinnamon gently plumps while the creamy texture deeply hydrates for an ultra-smooth finish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon shea butter
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 drop cinnamon essential oil
Instructions
- Whip the Base: In a bowl, whip the shea butter and coconut oil with a hand mixer until fluffy.
- Add Essential Oil: Stir in the cinnamon essential oil.
- Store: Transfer to a small jar with a lid and store in a cool, dry place.
How it works
The shea butter and coconut oil hydrate and protect your lips, while the cinnamon oil stimulates circulation for a natural plumping effect.
—Cinnamon Powder + Cayenne DIY Lip Plumper
Looking for a bold, natural way to enhance your lips? This DIY plumper combines cinnamon powder and cayenne pepper for a spicy, effective boost without harsh chemicals.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
- A small pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the coconut oil, cinnamon powder, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Apply: Using clean fingers or a cotton swab, apply a thin layer of the mixture to your lips.
- Wait: Leave on for 5–10 minutes, allowing the spices to work their magic.
- Remove: Gently wipe off the mixture with a damp cloth.
- Hydrate: Follow with your favorite lip balm to lock in moisture and enhance the effect.
How it works
Cinnamon powder and cayenne pepper stimulate blood flow to the lips, creating a natural plumping effect. The coconut oil soothes and hydrates, balancing the spice for a comfortable, effective treatment.
—Cinnamon and Honey Lip Mask
Pamper your lips with this soothing and plumping mask. The combination of honey and cinnamon creates a hydrating and stimulating treatment for luscious lips.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon honey
- A pinch of ground cinnamon
- 1 drop cinnamon extract
Instructions
- Mix the Mask: In a small bowl, mix the honey, cinnamon, and cinnamon extract.
- Apply: Spread a thin layer onto your lips and leave it on for 5 minutes.
- Rinse: Gently rinse off with warm water and follow with a nourishing balm.
How it works
Honey locks in moisture, while cinnamon stimulates circulation for a plumper, softer pout. Use this as a 5-minute mask before applying lipstick for a natural plump.
—Chilled Cinnamon Lip Gel
Cool and plump your lips with this refreshing cinnamon-infused gel. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up, it soothes while adding a touch of spice.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 drop cinnamon essential oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and cinnamon essential oil in a small bowl.
- Chill: Store the mixture in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before use.
- Apply: Dab a small amount onto your lips and enjoy the cooling and plumping effect.
How It Works
Aloe vera soothes irritation while cinnamon gently stimulates blood flow, creating a refreshing and plumping experience.
These recipes are fun, easy, and effective ways to enhance your lips naturally. Just remember to test for sensitivity and adjust the cinnamon levels to your comfort!
FAQ
Soy wax or carnauba wax are two great vegan alternatives to beeswax. But I definitely wouldn't recommend skipping the wax entirely, or you'll run into consistency issues when the coconut oil starts to soften. To replace the honey, try vegetable glycerin or castor oil.
Homemade lip scrub should last approximately 2 weeks if kept refrigerated. Lip balm and oils should last about 6 months. To make them last longer, you can use a natural preservative, such as Leucidal Liquid SF.
Definitely. However, a fine-grained sugar such as caster sugar will be easier on your lips.
Cinnamon's tingling action is what makes this plumping lip balm + scrub so magical. But yes, if it irritates your skin, it’s definitely best to leave it out entirely. It shouldn't affect the recipe.
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Rina Mary Allawh, M.D., a dermatologist who practices adult and pediatric medical dermatology, skin cancer treatment, and cosmetic dermatology. Learn more about Hello Glow's medical reviewers here. As always, this is not personal medical advice, and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
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