Normally your skin has a protective layer covering itself, however it is almost absent or at least very thin, on your lips. This leaves your skin vulnerable to damage caused by environmental stressors; change in temperature, dehydration, exposure to the sun, pollution, etc.
The outer layer of the skin on your lips is also much thinner and sensitive,which is the reason why our lips have a tinge of colour—you’re able to see the blood from the thin, colourless skin on our lips.
Unlike the skin on the rest of your skin, lips don’t have sebaceous glands which are responsible for producing the oil that keeps skin soft and moisturised. That is why it is so important for us to take special care and keep them hydrated.
Here are 5 tips to keep your lips looking soft and supple:
Exfoliation:
1-2 times a week, we recommend gently exfoliating your lips or removing the dry, dead skin flakes by gently brushing your lips with a wet, soft toothbrush or washcloth. Not only does this remove any dead cells, it helps boost circulation to the area. You’ll only need to exfoliate more regularly if your lips are prone to chapping and cracking.
Moisturise:
Whenever your lips are feeling parched, always reach for a nourishing and moisturising lip balm. Lip balms can be addictive, so choose wisely. I recommend avoiding petroleum or petroleum-based lip balms as they don’t turn out beneficial in the long run.
SPF:
Just like the skin on your face and body, your lips are equally susceptible to the damage caused by UV exposure. If you’re spending time outside and your lip moisturiser doesn’t contain sunscreen, follow up with an SPF.
Don’t lick your lips:
It might feel good during that moment and even feel hydrating for your lips, but once the saliva evaporates, it actually leaves your lips even drier. This is because saliva has digestive enzymes which wear down the skin on your lips.
At home lip facial:
Exfoliation and hydration are the key steps in improving the texture of your lips. Start adding a lip facial to your skincare routine by:
- Apply a small amount of scrub in gentle, circular motions for up to 30 seconds
- Leave the mixture for up to 5 minutes allowing the nourishing oils to soak in
- Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel
- Apply moisturising lip balm
If you don’t have a lip scrub, why don’t you try making your own with these simple steps:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil and honey
- Add 1 teaspoon of brown sugar and a splash of warm water