Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum Review

Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum
5.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
1.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Review

Does Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum has to offer:
 
✅ Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10, impaired by the lack of humectants.

  

Key Benefits of Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 1.5 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈40.0%), Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer (est. ≈11.0%) and Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

⚠️ Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum contains a low level of humectants.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Bakuchiol and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Exceptionally rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum
, as a moisturizer, provides an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
That said, there are some things about Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains only a small amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Tarte Sting Zing Lip Plumping Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
22
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides
Function:
Origin:
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Function:
Origin:
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Diisostearyl Malate
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Nicotinate
Function:
Origin:
Silica Dimethyl Silylate
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tribehenin
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Trihydroxystearin
Function:
Origin:
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Capsicum Frutescens Resin
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Oleate
Function:
Origin:
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Polybutene
Function:
Origin:
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Commiphora Mukul Resin Extract
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gardenia Taitensis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
59.1
40.0
11.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 1.5 10
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 59.1 20
10.0
40.0
11.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 1.5 10
1.5
All humectants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
40
11
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 59.1 20
10.0
All occlusives
59.1
40.0
11.0
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.1 3 No
All antioxidants
2.1
Bakuchiol
0.3
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
0.3
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.6 5 No
All soothing
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %40
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %22
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl TetraisostearateAn emollient ester with high gloss and thickening properties.
Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic PolyglyceridesAn ingredient that is made up of emollient and occlusive moisturizing fatty acid triglycerides.
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Est. %3
Function
Origin
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Sorbitan SesquioleateA natural liquid ingredient that is yellow to amber in color and completely transparent. It supports oil and water mixtures and disperses minerals into oils.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed OilAn emollient fatty oil expressed from sesame seeds. It is made up majorly of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (up to 45%), and oleic acid (up to 38%). Sesame oil is an occlusive moisturizer that is rich in antioxidant compounds.
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Diisostearyl Malate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diisostearyl MalateAn emollient ester that softens the skin and keeps it feeling smooth. It is characterized by a cushiony feel and glossy sheen, which is why it is frequently used in lip products.
Benzyl Nicotinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Nicotinate
Silica Dimethyl Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silica Dimethyl SilylateA synthetic 'filler' powder primarily used as a formula helper. It is added in skincare products to adjust their consistency and thickness.
Bakuchiol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BakuchiolA newly discovered bioactive obtained from the seeds of Babchi. It boosts collagen production like retinol, but with fewer side effects. Its effects include reduced wrinkles and faded pigmentation.
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit ExtractA fragrant and flavoring extract derived from vanilla pods. Vanillin is the main compound responsible for its scent and taste. Other compounds present in the vanilla pod are antioxidant and soothin tannins, polyphenols, and free amino acids.
Tribehenin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TribeheninA soft, pliable wax that serves as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It improves the spreadability of skincare products, including the increased payoff of stick products, and imparts a pleasant, smooth feel upon application.
Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Trihydroxystearin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trihydroxystearin
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Capsicum Frutescens Resin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Capsicum Frutescens Resin
Sorbitan Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan IsostearateA mild yet powerful emulsifier primarily utilized to produce water-in-oil emulsions. It helps to create a particularly rich and substantial emulsion.
Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Glyceryl Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl OleateA nonionic surfactant that can be used as an emulsifier, emulsion stabilizer, and thickener in both skin cleansers and leave-on skincare products.
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Passiflora Edulis Seed OilA fatty oil derived from passion fruit seeds. It contains emollient and occlusive linoleic and oleic fatty acids, as well as antioxidants (among which are famous vitamin E and resveratrol).
Polybutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolybuteneA petro-based ingredient that thickens and hold products together.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) OilA famous occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil. It is derived from coconuts and may give a product a lovely coconut scent. Coconut oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Commiphora Mukul Resin Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Commiphora Mukul Resin ExtractA fragrant extract derived from the resin of a Northern Indian tree called Commiphora wightii. It has a sweet, honey-like scent and contains some rare anti-inflammatory compounds.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

A small peptide consisting of three amino acids with anti-wrinkle effects. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it is a part of the popular anti-wrinkle complex called Matrixyl™ 3000.

Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Algae ExtractThe name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Gardenia Taitensis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gardenia Taitensis Flower ExtractA fragrant extract from the flowers of the Tahitian gardenia that contains essential oil which has a floral, tropical scent with fresh notes.