Since you've already perfected your brows, it’s time to get your lip game on.
The cold might not be bothering you one bit, but there’s a good chance your lips are feeling a little too flaky, dry, and chapped. That wouldn’t look (or feel!) good when you’re about to pucker up!
Our lips are a hundred times more sensitive than our fingertips. What makes them so susceptible to harsh weather and environmental elements is the fact that they don’t have any defensive membrane to cover them. We don’t think too much about it, but our lips are very fragile.
There’s no need to worry, though! You still have more than enough time to get smooth, irresistibly kissable lips by Valentine’s Day. Below are some tips to give your lips all the TLC they need before your next big kiss.
Don’t Underestimate The Power of A Good Glass of Water
If you’re not getting your eight glasses of water a day, start drinking up! Make it a habit because, aside from lip repair products and other things you can put on your lips to protect them, hydrating from the inside can help keep your lips looking fresh and smooth. Water restores your body, even your lips.
Take a look at the mirror and see if your lips look deflated and maybe even a little wrinkled. When you’re dehydrated, it often manifests on your lips first before any other part of your body. If you want to bring life back into your lips without putting on too many layers of products, one tall glass of water is all it takes.
Drink a full glass when you wake up in the morning and carry a reusable water bottle with you every time you’re running errands. The key to this is to keep water with you at all times.
Carry Lip Balm At All Times
Water hydrates your lips from the inside. A good lip balm hydrates them on the outside. So if you want plump, kissable lips by Valentine’s Day, keep it with you at all times, especially when the weather is at its extremes.
Now, you might be tempted to just smack your lips whenever they’re feeling dry. Avoid doing this! It does the complete opposite. Smacking your lips will only dry them out even further. A quick swipe across your lips is enough to make the lack of moisture go away. Trust us, you’ll feel instantly better!
Of course, not all lip balms are good for you. There are several products on the market that contain ingredients that will only dehydrate and even irritate your lips. Check the ingredients list of a product first before purchasing.
In the case of lip balms, avoid the following:
- Phenol
- Menthol
- Camphor
- Petrolatum
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)
- Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
- Any kind of alcohol
When choosing the right lip balm for you, stick with those that use natural oils to seal in moisture.
During the summer or whenever the sun is out, use a lip balm that contains broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will protect them from the UVA and UVB rays of the sunn.
Exfoliate Your Lips Weekly
It’s not just your skin and face that needs regular exfoliation. Keep your lips soft and plump by exfoliating them once a week. Compared to the rest of your body, your lips have a thinner layer of skin. This makes them lose moisture quickly. Exfoliating them removes dry and flaky skin that may have built up over the past few days.
Body scrubs will be too harsh on your lips, so opt for sugar scrubs specifically formulated for them. If you don’t have one on hand, mix coconut oil and a little bit of sugar. You’ll only need a small amount. Apply it to your lips with your finger and massage using soft, circular motions. Once you’re done, wipe the scrub away with a damp washcloth and pat them dry.
Another option is to take a clean washcloth, run it through warm water, and then rub the washcloth over your lips. Use the same circular motions until you’ve scrubbed away the dead skin. Whenever you apply pressure to your lips, be as gentle as possible.
After exfoliating, complete your lip care routine with a moisturizing lip balm for more supple lips.
Additional Tips To Keep In Mind
Avoid using strong cleaners on your face, such as acne cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, especially around the mouth area if your lips feel irritated or dry. Products like these will only worsen your chapped lips.
Furthermore, check the lipsticks and glosses you are using. Stick to ones that have moisturizing effects. If you’re putting on matte lipsticks or lip stains, apply a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor first to create a smoother canvas for your makeup.
Sealed With Love
Whether you’re prepping for that big kiss with someone special or just want to shower yourself with the love that you deserve, the self-care practices above will leave your lips feeling smooth and refreshed.