Are You Using The Right Lip Balm? Skin Expert Reveals What To Look For

Are your lips craving some much-needed care? A quality lip balm should do more than just hydrate, it should nourish, repair dryness, shield against environmental damage, and even add a touch of colour for a naturally enhanced look. To understand what makes the ideal lip balm, we spoke to Dr Shikha Khare, Consultant Dermatologist at Yatharth Hospitals, Delhi. She shared expert insights on the key factors to consider, essential ingredients to look for, and more.

Five Factors To Look For When Buying A Lip Balm

Dr Khare recommends keeping these key factors in mind when choosing a lip balm:

• Hydrating Ingredients: Opt for nourishing components like shea butter, cocoa butter, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to provide deep hydration and lock in moisture.
• Sun Protection: Select a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher to protect your lips from harmful UV rays, as they are particularly vulnerable to sun damage.
• Healing Properties: Look for ingredients such as lanolin, beeswax, or aloe vera to soothe and repair dry, chapped lips.
• Non-Comedogenic Formula: Ensure the balm is lightweight and won’t clog pores around the lips, preventing breakouts or irritation.
• Hypoallergenic & Dermatologist-Tested: If you have sensitive skin, choose a formula that is free from allergens and has been tested for safety.

Common Harmful Ingredients to Avoid in Lip Balms

Dr Khare suggests to avoid lip balms containing the following: 

• Parabens and Phthalates: These preservatives can disrupt hormones and cause irritation.

• Artificial Fragrances and Flavours: These can be drying and may trigger allergies.

• Camphor, Menthol, and Phenol: While cooling, these can cause irritation and exacerbate dryness with prolonged use.

• Petrolatum (if unrefined): Ensure it is pharmaceutical grade, as unrefined petrolatum may contain impurities.

• Alcohol-Based Ingredients: These can strip natural moisture from the lips, leading to further dryness.

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Lip Balm Routine For Healthy, Hydrated Lips

Unlike the rest of our skin, our lips lack sebaceous glands, making them more prone to dryness and external damage. Additionally, the corneal layer, the protective barrier of our skin is much thinner on the lips, leaving them vulnerable to environmental aggressors. This is why external care is crucial for maintaining soft, healthy lips.

To keep lips nourished and well-hydrated, Dr Khare recommends following a proper lip care routine, which includes hydration, protection, and regular maintenance.

Dr Khare recommends the following steps for a healthy lip care routine:

• Morning Application: After cleansing your face, apply a hydrating lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun. Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you're exposed to sunlight.
• Pre-Lipstick Care: To prevent dryness from matte or long-lasting lipsticks, apply a thin layer of lip balm before you start your makeup routine.
• Night Care: Before bed, apply a thicker, reparative lip balm or lip mask that contains occlusive agents like lanolin or petroleum jelly to lock in moisture overnight.
• Exfoliation: Once a week, gently exfoliate your lips with a sugar scrub or a soft toothbrush to remove dead skin and improve the absorption of your lip balm.

Should Lip Care Routines Change With The Seasons? 

Dr Khare highlighted that seasonal changes can greatly affect your lip care needs and suggested the following lip balm choices for each season:

• Winter: Due to low humidity, lips tend to dry out faster. Opt for a rich, emollient lip balm with occlusive agents to lock in moisture and keep lips hydrated.
• Summer: Protect your lips from sunburn and pigmentation by using a lip balm with SPF. Lightweight, hydrating formulations are ideal for this season.
• Monsoon: High humidity can lead to bacterial growth. Choose non-sticky, antibacterial lip balms to keep your lips clean and moisturised.
• Transitional Seasons: During the changing seasons, use gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin and deeply hydrating products to combat peeling or dryness caused by temperature fluctuations.

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These season-specific tips can help you keep your lips in top condition year-round.

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