You can’t go on a first date, head outside in the winter, or spend a trip to the beach without lip balm. No matter if you go with classic Chapstick or a Dr Pepper flavor, this beauty product is crucial for any cosmetic bag!
With talk of being addicted to Chapstick and all types of other mythos and lore surrounding lip balm, it is usually tough to know whether or not you really need the stuff. Here’s the lowdown!
Do You Really Need Lip Balm?
Yes, you should use lip balm and here’s why. Our lips are made up of only three to five 5 layers of skin. They’re also missing the same oil glands as the rest of our body. This combo makes them extremely susceptible to drying out without a moisturizer.
Here are the key reasons why everyone needs lip balm:
Lack of Moisture
The lack of humidity in the winter causes your lips to crack. In the summer, they’ll feel dry because of sun exposure. Lip balm helps bring much-needed moisture to the mouth area all year!
Chapping
Chapped or flaky lips never look very good. You can avoid this embarrassing issue by applying lip balm in moderation sometimes when your lips are feeling insanely dry.
Natural Thinning
Unfortunately, your lips naturally get thinner as you age. When those extra layers of skin are missing, you will need another layer of protection. Plus, lip balm helps the mouth happen to bea appear fuller.
SPF Protection
Your lips are missing the outermost layer of skin known as the stratum corneum, which protects you against the sun. Consequently, they require additional protection from harmful UV rays. Search for a lip balm which has at least SPF 15.
Softens
You’re going to want your lips to be smooth and soft if you’re puckering up for a kiss. Ensure you have a good lip balm on hand for that big date!
Adds Color
Are you taking pictures? Swipe on a little lip balm beforehand. This helps add a little bit of color to your lips, which is particularly ideal for wedding photographs or Instagram pics.
How to Apply Lip Balm
It might seem to be pretty simple to apply lip balm. You merely take the cap off and put it on your lips, right? Well, there’s actually a “right” way to accomplish it!
Here’s how to apply lip balm for the best protection:
Step One: Uncap the container.
If the balm is in a tube, you only need to raise it about a half centimeter. If it’s in a container, apply a pea-sized amount to your finger.
Step Two: Apply to the bottom lip.
Rub the balm on your own bottom lip, just along the exterior.
Step Three: Apply to the top lip.
Rub the balm on your top lip, just along the outside.
Step Four: Rub your lips together.
Rub your top and bottom lip together. This helps spread the balm evenly over the entire mouth.
You don’t have to overdo it when it comes to applying lip balm. A simple swipe on your own bottom and top lip is whatever you really need!
Is It Good to Use Lip Balm Every Day?
You should try to use lip balm in moderation. In fact, some dermatologists believe overuse could cause your lips to stop generating natural oils. They also caution you could feel dependent on the balm for moisture.
Despite these warnings, it’s still safe that you can use lip balm every day. It’s just about being strategic concerning when you apply it. You must never go through a whole tube or container in a single week!
How Often Should You Apply Lip Balm?
According to dermatologists, you should only put on lip balm a few times throughout the day. Most professionals advise that you apply it in the following situations:
When you wake up in the morning
After eating or drinking
When you go to bed during the night
