Here’s a thing even skin care experts don’t know: The lips don’t have as much of a barrier as the rest of the skin, which is why you lose a lot of moisture from your lips to the environment. Compound that with wind and low humidity, and you’re left with chapped lips.
Lip care, therefore, is incredibly important. The simplest thing you can do is to use the right lip balm. But with so many options out there, it can be difficult, even overwhelming, to find the lip balm. Sounds relatable? We’re here to help.
Let’s look at four common types of lip balms and their uses to get that perfect pout every time.
Moisturizing Lip Balm
Many people think the lips don’t have oil glands. This is a big misconception. It’s just that your skin can’t lock in those oils as effectively as your face. This is where a moisturizing lip balm comes in!
It helps you strike the right balance between hydration and greasiness. A moisturizing lip balm locks in moisture to soften your lips and help prevent dryness. It also acts as a barrier between your lips and harsh environmental and weather irritants.
The base ingredient of moisturizing lip balms (護唇膏) is a humectant (glycerin or hyaluronic acid). It helps attract and bind moisture to the lips. Then, emollients are added to smooth your lips. This includes:
- Shea butter
- Almond oil
- Jojoba oil
- Vitamin E
Apply a moisturizing lip balm every day, with or without makeup, and you’ll see results. It is also necessary in the winter, when your lips are especially prone to dryness and cracks.
Tinted Lip Balm
A tinted lip balm is another must-have in your everyday bag. In addition to hydration, a tinted lip balm gives your lips a pop of color. It is an excellent addition to your no-makeup, natural routine.
The best part? Tinted lip balms are infused with natural soothing ingredients. This includes shea butter and natural oils to heal chapped lips. You will also find Vitamin E and Vitamin C, antioxidants that help protect the skin.
As for the tint part, most brands use pigments, micas, and synthetic dyes. You’ll find tinted lip balms in numerous shades, such as cherry, rose, and coffee.
SPF Lip Balm
It might sound surprising, but your lips are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your skin. In fact, excessive exposure to UV rays is one of the leading causes of lip hyperpigmentation.
SPF lip balm is the ultimate solution. It contains sunscreen agents, such as zinc oxide or avobenzone. You will also find soothing ingredients such as bisabolol and vitamin E to help heal and prevent side effects.
An SPF lip balm will help prevent your pout from darkening and ensure a refreshed look. Apply it every time you go outdoors.
Medicated Lip Balm
Lastly, medicated lip balms are created to target special lip conditions. For instance, if you have extremely chapped, cracked, or irritated lips, a medicated lip balm can do the trick. It has ingredients, such as:
- Menthol
- Camphor
- Beeswax
This will provide relief from burning or inflammation.