I’m pretty sure that the first self-care product most of us owned was a ‘lip balm’, famously known as ‘chapstick’. 

Back then, chapsticks and clear lip oils in roll-on tubes were our holy grails. Perhaps because those were the only items our mothers would allow us to use. Although we might’ve formed a good habit early on in life i.e., to hydrate our lips regularly, it is certainly not enough now. 

Fast forward to growing up, lip care has taken a back seat as we navigate through vast formulations of lipsticks. Matte, creamy, sheer, or glossy finishes – all of which are available in 100’s of colors ranging from neutrals to bolds. Our lips have become an expression of our mood and aesthetics. 

So, we decided to take you back to the basics. 

Why is Lip Care Important?

Lips, unlike our skin, aren’t blessed with oil-producing glands. The only moisture it can receive is topical. Therefore, taking appropriate care of your lips is important on a weekly basis if not daily, especially if you like to wear makeup.

Steps to Take Care of Your Lips

Hydration

As mentioned above, lips cannot hydrate themselves, so the main purpose of lip care is to keep them hydrated as much as you can. Luckily, there are many products in the market made for the purpose. 

Lip Care Products

From lip balms and oils to lip sleeping masks – there is something for everyone. Lip balms are great for daytime, whereas sleeping masks are best for overnight nourishment. Lip oils are a great way to nourish your lips while adding a gloss-like shine to them – perfect for natural makeup days. 

One of the lesser know secrets to healthy and plump lips is moisturizer. Yes, you read it right. Apply your regular moisturizer under lip balm to prolong the hydration. 

Exfoliation

Weekly lip care is incomplete without this step. 

Exfoliating gets rid of the dry and flaky skin that tends to accumulate over the lips no matter how hydrated you keep them. Gently scrubbing reveals a softer, smoother, and brighter lip that serves as a perfect canvas for lipstick application. 

DIY Lip Scrub

Although DIY in skincare is not encouraged, it is perfectly safe for lips (given that the ingredients used are gentle). You can make your own DIY lip scrub at home using the following ingredients:

• Brown Sugar
• Oil (Olive, Coconut, or Vitamin E)
• Honey

Combine all the ingredients until the sugar becomes softer, almost semi-solid. Rub the concoction gently onto your lips for 5 mins, and then wash it off with a microfibre towel.

Apply SPF

Do we need to remind the importance of SPF?

Lips age too, applying sunscreen is the most effective way to keep them fuller and plumper for longer. 

General Care

• Stay away from smoking. It discolors the lips and surrounding area. 
• Drink ample water.
• Consume vitamin C and antioxidants rich food for naturally pink lips.
• Avoid licking your lips, it causes dehydration
• Prefer hydrating lipsticks over matte ones. Nevertheless, do not wear any lipstick for long time periods. 

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

The Most Iconic Lipstick Trends of All the Time