Why use lip balm?

The use of lip balm has become an important part of modern People’s Daily care, which is closely related to the special physiological structure of the lips and the complex external environment. The skin around the lips has only a thin layer of stratum corneum. It neither has sebaceous glands to secrete oil to form a natural protective film nor sweat glands to regulate moisture. This makes its water loss rate 2 to 3 times that of facial skin, and it is naturally more prone to dryness and peeling than other parts of the body. For this reason, the ingredients in lip balm such as Vaseline, beeswax and glycerin are particularly important. They can form a physical barrier on the surface of the lips, not only reducing water evaporation, but also firmly locking in the natural moisturizing factors of the lips, just like covering the lips with a “protective film” to maintain the balance of water and oil.
The external environment also brings many challenges to the lips. In autumn and winter, the air humidity often drops below 40%. The cold wind, carrying dry air, can quickly draw away the moisture from the lips, causing them to crack or even bleed. Although UVB rays in summer sunlight are not as obvious as sunburn on the skin, long-term exposure can cause pigmentation and reduced elasticity of the lips. Many lip balms with SPF sun protection ingredients are like putting on a “sun protection coat” for the lips, which can effectively reduce the damage caused by photoaging. Relevant studies show that people who consistently use lip balms containing sunscreen factors have a 40% slower rate of fine line formation on their lips than those who do not.

Some habits in life can also aggravate lip problems. Frequent lip licking is an unconscious action for many people. However, when the amylase in saliva evaporates, it will instead take away more water, creating a vicious cycle of “the more you lick, the drier it gets”. The habit of breathing through the mouth will expose the lips to the air for a long time, accelerating the loss of moisture. For people with sensitive lips or those suffering from cheilitis, lip balm containing ingredients such as ceramides and allantoin can have an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect, just like applying a gentle “band-aid” to the injured lips.
When it comes to makeup creation, lip balm is an indispensable helper. Popular products with a relatively dry texture, such as matte lipstick and matte lip gloss, are prone to wrinkling and peeling when applied directly. However, using lip balm as a base in advance and allowing it to be absorbed before applying makeup can make the lip makeup more smooth and consistent, increase its durability by 50%, and also reduce the frequency of touch-up. Even without makeup, keeping the lips moist and plump can make one’s overall complexion look healthier.
In fact, using lip balm is not merely a simple care action; it is also a proactive attitude towards taking care of oneself. In the fast-paced life, the lips, as a frequently moving part, can easily affect one’s daily speaking and eating experience if not properly attended to. Persisting in using lip balm and resolving potential lip problems in daily care may seem like a minor habit, but it reflects the pursuit of a high quality of life. It can keep the lips soft and plump despite the tests of time and environment.