Our lips are often an overlooked part of our skincare routine. But despite their small size, they deserve just as much attention as the rest of our face. The delicate skin on our lips lacks oil glands, making them prone to dryness, chapping, and irritation.
Here’s why your lips need TLC and how to keep them soft, smooth, and healthy:
Why Lips Need Extra Love
Unlike the rest of your face, your lips don’t have a natural layer of oil to keep them hydrated. This makes them more susceptible to the elements, like dry weather, wind, and sun exposure. They can also be easily irritated by harsh ingredients in certain products or by bad habits like licking or picking.
Chapped and Sore? Here’s How to Fight Back
The good news is there are simple steps you can take to keep your lips healthy and kissable:
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Exfoliate Regularly: Get rid of dead skin cells with a gentle lip scrub once or twice a week. You can even make your own scrub with sugar and honey! Just be sure to be super gentle, as lips are very sensitive.
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Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Apply a lip balm with SPF throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors. Look for ingredients like shea butter, petrolatum, or hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration. Reapply often, especially after eating or drinking.
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Sun Protection is Key: Just like your face, your lips need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Choose a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to prevent sunburn and premature aging.
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Kick the Bad Habits: Licking your lips might seem soothing in the moment, but it actually dries them out further. The same goes for picking or biting at your lips. Try to find healthy coping mechanisms to manage these habits.
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Hydration is Key: Dry lips are often a sign of dehydration. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your lips and your whole body happy!
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Beware of Irritating Ingredients: Some lipsticks and lip balms contain ingredients that can irritate your lips, such as fragrance or alcohol. If you experience any burning or stinging, switch to a gentler product.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can keep your lips healthy and prevent dryness and chapping. Remember, a little TLC goes a long way for a soft, smooth pucker you can be proud of!