Lip beauty criteria
Beautiful lips are pleasing to look at, sensual and feminine. Full lips are often considered ideal. However, normal-sized lips can also be very attractive if they meet certain beauty criteria :
• Upper lip volume is two thirds of lower lip volume.
• The upper lip projects a few millimetres beyond the lower lip.
• The white lip is concave and the red lip convex.
• The Cupid’s bow is well defined and the philtral ridges prominent.
• The angle between the nose and lips is 90°-95° in men and 110°-120° in women.
• The peaks of the Cupid’s bow align with the centres of the nostrils.
• Lip width should equal the distance between the two pupils.
What are full lips ?
Merz developed lip volume scales to objectively assess lip dimensions. Five stages were identified :
• Stage 0 : very thin lips.
• Stage 1 : thin lips.
• Stage 2 : moderately thick lips.
• Stage 3 : thick lips.
• Stage 4 : full lips.
Ideal proportions according to science
What are the ideal proportions for attractive lips ? A study conducted by the University of California research unit and published in February 2017 in the American scientific journal JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery sought to answer this question.
Nearly 400 volunteers participated. They examined several photographs of young women’s lips and rated each on a scale of 1 to 10, from least attractive to most alluring.
The result ? Male and female participants clearly preferred lips 50 % fuller than the norm. They also preferred a lower lip twice as thick as the upper lip. This ratio recalls the natural, harmonious lips of celebrities such as Alessandra Ambrosio or Miranda Kerr, often considered models of perfection.
However, the study highlights an essential point : naturalness comes first. Full, harmonious lips are the most appealing. This research confirms that appropriate aesthetic treatments can enhance lips while preserving a natural appearance.
The different types of lips
According to lip size and curvature, Cupid’s bow shape and the junction between upper and lower lips, five lip shapes can be distinguished.
Both lips are similarly sized, with a well-defined Cupid’s bow on the upper lip.
The lips are thick and well defined, with forward projection.
The lips are narrow with little volume and an even contour. The lower lip has more volume than the upper lip.
Broad and stretched in appearance, these lips are thin and elongated, with greater lower lip volume than upper lip volume.
The shape is rounded, with full lips that are not overly thick.
Celebrity lip shapes
Celebrity lips have always fascinated and inspired. Symbols of allure and elegance, they often reflect the aesthetic trends of their era. Whether full, sculpted or subtly enhanced, these iconic lips embody beauty ideals for many people.
• Cupid style : this shape emphasises the upper lip, particularly the Cupid’s bow. Slightly lifting the outer sections creates a youthful, refined appearance. Ideal for patients seeking a delicate, natural lifting effect.
• Hollywood style : inspired by film stars, this iconic shape highlights the three distinct curves of the upper lip. Slightly rounded corners create harmonious balance with a moderately enhanced lower lip. The result is near-perfect symmetry and a touch of timeless glamour.
• Classic style : universal and subtle, this shape suits all facial structures. It enhances the lips’ natural “S”, balancing upper and lower lips. Classic style is perfect for patients seeking subtle, natural enhancement.
• Pearl style : characterised by a full lower lip, this shape features a slight central cleft, creating elegant “pearls” on either side. It highlights the lips’ sensuality and natural radiance for a charming, sophisticated result.
• Supermodel style : popular for its striking effect, this style emphasises the lower lip. Adding volume to the vermilion and redefining contours creates instant glamour. Ideal for patients seeking an impressive, harmonious result.
• Goddess style : “Goddess Lips” feature fleshy, projected lips with harmonious emphasis on all five lip sections. This approach particularly enhances volume for an elegant, glamorous result. It suits patients with sufficient distance between nose and chin, allowing balanced, harmonious results. Inspired by stars and iconic beauty figures, this style reflects sophistication and modernity.
Price of lip harmonisation according to beauty ideals
An approach respecting lip beauty ideals relies on subtle balance, achieved with one syringe of hyaluronic acid priced at 650 CHF. This includes the entire procedure : initial consultation, selection of the appropriate product, injections following precise proportions and follow-up. It reflects tailored work in a rigorous medical setting, consistent with aesthetic expectations based on universal reference points.
What are the ideal proportions between the upper and lower lips ?
Ideal lip proportions generally follow the golden ratio of 1:1,6, with a slightly fuller lower lip. This natural harmony creates aesthetic facial balance. However, proportions can be adapted to the patient’s anatomy and preferences.
Why is the Cupid’s bow essential to lip aesthetics ?
The Cupid’s bow defines the upper lip contour, giving it elegance and sensuality. A well-defined bow adds character and definition. Medical treatment of this area enhances the smile and provides a natural, refined result.
What lip shape is most sought after in aesthetic medicine ?
Naturally full, well-defined and symmetrical lips are the most sought after. Current trends favour moderate volume, a slightly fuller lower lip and a well-defined Cupid’s bow. The aim is to respect facial harmony for an elegant, natural result.
Why are well-hydrated, plump lips perceived as younger ?
Over time, lips lose hydration and volume, accentuating wrinkles and creating a tired appearance. Plump, hydrated lips convey youthfulness and vitality because they reflect healthy skin and a fresh face.
Which small details make lips more sensual ?
Well-defined contours, a pronounced Cupid’s bow, slightly lifted corners and smooth texture contribute to sensuality. A slightly fuller lower lip and good hydration also enhance the lips’ fullness and attractiveness.
