Chapped lips can be quite painful, affecting not only your physical comfort but also the quality of your makeup application. Unlike other areas of the body, the lips possess fewer oil glands, making them more susceptible to dryness. The unfortunate part of having dry and cracked lips is that they can occur year-round, from summer to winter.

In moments like these, the humble lip balm can be the saviour you need tucked away in that tiny zipper inside every woman’s handbag. A cherished companion for beauty enthusiasts all over, it plays a significant role in prolonging the longevity of your lip colour and improving your overall lip health. In this blog, we'll explore how to make the most of your lip balm.

What are the causes of dry chapped lips?

• Products with alcohol or synthetic fragrance
• Alcohol, fragrances, and harsh chemicals can intensify lip dryness.
• Licking your lips
• The enzymes in saliva (to help digest food) can irritate your lips as it can degrade the skin’s tissue.
• Sun exposure
• Sunburn happens to your lips as well and can cause cracking and flaky patches
• Exposure to cold
• Cold air tends to draw out moisture from the lips.
• Mouth breathing
• Mouth breathing can lead to saliva moving onto the skin around your lips, causing irritation.

Now that you understand what causes lips to dry, let’s discover why a lip balm should be an important part of your makeup routine. A lip balm is designed to deliver intense moisture, support elasticity, relieve dryness and firm lips but its advantages extend far beyond just the skincare benefits.

1. Hydration is key

When your lips are well-hydrated, lip colour adheres better and lasts longer without fading quickly or becoming patchy.

2. Smoothening the surface

Lip balm can fill in fine lines and cracks, creating a more even texture for your lip colour to glide on effortlessly.

3. Sealing in lip colour

A touch of lip balm over your lip colour enhances its staying power adding a radiant glow to your lips.

4. Preventing feathering and bleeding

Lip balm acts as a barrier, keeping lip colour in place and preventing smudging.

How to choose the right lip balm?

Look for products with natural and moisturising ingredients, avoiding those containing camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus, which can provide temporary relief but ultimately result in dryness and irritation.

Stay away from heavy, greasy balms as they can impact the longevity of your lip colour. Instead, opt for lightweight, plush-textured balms that provide a smooth canvas for lipstick application.

How to make your lipstick last longer?

• Prep your lips by gently exfoliating to remove any dead skin and flakiness.
• Apply lip balm evenly across your lips, including the edges.
• Continue with your foundation and other makeup, allowing your lips to absorb the moisture from the balm.
• Line your lips for a more defined look and to prevent your lipstick from bleeding and smudging.
• Apply your lipstick, noticing how smoothly it glides on. Your lips will stay soft and hydrated throughout the day, preventing cracking, or flaking.

Embrace the power of your lip balm so your lipstick can stay put from morning till night. A good balm will not only extend the life of your lipstick but also leave your lips soft, plump and smooth so you can enjoy kiss-proof, poppy lips.