Maybelline Volume XL Seduction Lip Plumper

I'm always on the lookout for a good lip gloss. Add plumping to the mix, and I'm sold. That's why when I saw Maybelline's Volume XL Seduction Lip Plumper gloss, I was sold. According to the marketing, it's supposed to give glassy shine and plump lips by up to 30%, all for less than $10. What's not to like?


Maybelline Volume XL Seduction Lip Plumper

I got my Volume XL in #405, which is an orange-based peachy coral. It appears to be very opaque in the tube, so I was expecting some good color payoff. Swatched, it also appears pretty opaque and bright:

However, when applied to the lips it gives much less color payoff. I really had to layer it on to get even a good hint of sheer color, enough to make my pale lips show up in my face:

The above photo shows Volume XL Seduction applied VERY heavily...far more heavily than I would ever wear in life. As you can see, it's nothing like it looks in the tube or even on my arm. I was disappointed my this, since I really like its color and had hoped it would translate into a bright, Spring-y look. Unfortunately, when I wear a reasonable amount of this stuff, it doesn't show up as anything more than a clear gloss, which isn't enough for me.

As for plumping, well...it certainly FEELS like it's plumping, based on the tingly feeling I get on first application...followed by lip numbness for a few minutes. My lips feel swollen when I apply Volume XL, but I have not noted any visible signs that there is any actual plumping going on, aside from that achieved simply by applying a gloss to my lips. Furthermore, the formula tends to be drying. Although my lips feel soft and cushioned while I am wearing the gloss, I find that they are usually chapped when I remove it...not cool!

Overall, I was pretty disappointed in this one. With such minor color payoff and chapped lips, it was more or less an utter fail. Maybe I should just stick with my tried-and-true Chanel Glossimers. For $30 a pop, it hurts to buy them, but the results are well worth the investment.

Grade: D