If you’re a big fan of skincare routines, chances are you’ve considered adding lip care to your healthy-habit lineup. It sounds so nice to look in the mirror and see the perfect hair, perfect skin, plus a perfect set of baby-soft, supple lips…
That could be YOU. When it comes to skincare routines, most especially facial skincare, our lips tend to get left out of the equation, even though they are crucial to our overall appearance and well-being.
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To start with, it’s important to know that the skin of our lips is unlike the skin on other parts of our body. It is much thinner and more sensitive than any other skin on our body, therefore it is vulnerable to cracking, dryness and chapping – which is why you need to follow these effective tips in taking care of your lips all year round!
Photo:IG @daunaglow
1. Exfoliate your lips
As a kick start for your lip care, the first step to take should be exfoliation. Exfoliating your lips is necessary as it helps to remove dry or dead skin cells, promote blood circulation, reduce discoloration and keep your lips soft, and healthy. You can use a lip scrub or toothbrush to exfoliate your lips only once or twice a week. You can make a mild lip scrub at home by mixing sugar with honey or olive oil.
To exfoliate using a lip scrub, gently rub the scrub into your lips using circular motions, then rinse with warm water. And remember to not over-exfoliate or scrub too hard, as the skin on your lips is delicate.
Photo: Pexels
2. Hydrate
When it comes to your overall health, staying hydrated is one of the basic and most important things you can do. Just like the rest of your body, your lips need to stay hydrated to remain healthy. Not drinking enough water is noted to be one of the top causes of dry lips, which is why you should make it a habit to consume at least eight glasses or about two and a half litres of water every single day. Staying hydrated will also help to improve your overall bodily functions.
Photo:IG/@shimmerglintcosmetics
3. Protect yourself from sun exposure
While it’s common knowledge that the skin on your face can be damaged by constant sun exposure (UV rays), your lips are equally susceptible to such damage. Long-term sun exposure can lead to various issues such as darkening of the lips, discoloration, dryness and aging. This is why it’s important to remember to use SPF protection daily.
Photo:IG/@bgirlyaf
4. Use a lip mask
Just as you need to protect your lips during the day, so do you during the night. The skin is more permeable at night, so it’s best to seal in tons of moisture right before bed – and this same rule applies to your lips. For protection and extra nourishment, you should consider using an overnight lip mask. You can choose to purchase a lip mask or make your own by using ingredients like honey and coconut oil. This overnight leave-on treatment will aid in repairing and keeping your lips hydrated while you sleep.
Photo: Pexels
5. Avoid bad habits
Common to practically everyone are certain habits that cause our lips more harm than good, and we are fond of doing them almost all the time. These bad habits include licking, sucking, biting and picking at our lips. Every time we do any of the bad habits, we tend to irritate and damage the skin on the lip.
When your lips are dry, you may think the best thing to do is to lick them, but this habit only worsens the condition, leaving the lips feeling even drier than before. This is one of the reasons why you should always stay hydrated and carry a lip balm with you because you never know when your lips tend to start drying out.
Photo: Pexels
6. Follow a healthy diet plan
In addition to staying hydrated, you should also incorporate consuming a healthy, wholesome and nutrient-rich diet, as it can impact the condition of your lips on the inside to ensure they also look nice on the outside. Incorporate foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and foods high in essential fatty acids, and other nutrients.
The takeaway
Skincare isn’t complete without lip care. Taking care of your lips is just as important as taking care of your skin. You can keep your lips supple, soft and healthy by implementing the aforementioned tips with a dedicated lip care routine. Remember to exfoliate softly but not regularly, hydrate appropriately, and protect your lips from the sun’s damaging rays. Also, avoid bad habits, pay attention to your food and remember to always carry a lip balm with you.
