Benefits of lip balm
Dr. Karuna Malhotra, cosmetic doctor and beauty expert at Rajouri Garden Dermatology and Healthcare Clinic (New Delhi, India) said that lips are one of the most prone to dryness on the body because the surface of the lips does not have oil glands. Therefore, lip balm becomes an important cosmetic product recommended for daily use. Applying lip balm can help create a protective layer and retain moisture to help lips look plump and full of vitality.
In addition to the main effect of moisturizing, helping lips avoid chapping and discomfort, some lip balms contain sunscreen ingredients, which protect lips from harmful ultraviolet rays and reduce the risk of sunburn.
Lip balms contain ingredients like menthol and camphor, which have a soothing effect when applied. Some lip balm formulas contain antioxidants like vitamin E or plant extracts, which can protect against free radical damage.
Does using lip balm dry out your lips?
According to research published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis, using cheap, low-quality lip balms can leave lips feeling dry and uncomfortable. Additionally, some lip balms can make lips even drier due to ingredients that irritate or dehydrate the skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, to avoid dry lips, when buying lip balm, stay away from products with ingredients such as:
- Camphor
- Eucalyptus
- Lip balms with mint, cinnamon and citrus flavors as they can be more irritating to chapped lips
- Lipsticks containing salicylic acid
Ingredients like menthol, camphor, and phenol are often added to lip balms to create a cooling sensation when applied. While they may initially soothe dry, chapped lips, they are not good for your lips in the long run because these compounds strip away the natural oils on your lips, causing dryness over time.
Salicylic acid is added to some lip balms to exfoliate, but when used in high concentrations it can be irritating to those with sensitive skin, causing dry lips. Additionally, synthetic fragrances and flavors can be irritating to some people, causing inflammation or peeling of the lips, so choosing a lip balm without these ingredients can help prevent the drying effect.
