When Hailey Bieber posted a mirror selfie featuring a phone case doubling up as a lip gloss holder, the internet went wild. Lip balm is the one product you always need but never seem to have, and this ingenious idea sparked conversation on why we’re more focused on our lip care than ever before. From Korean cosmetics to ‘no-make-up make-up’ looks, skincare is replacing heavy, piled on products in favour of dewy skin and wet-look shadows – and your lips are no exception.
“Our lips have fewer layers than the rest of our skin and don’t produce any oils,” explains Weleda’s Elizabeth King, the skincare expert whose career has focused on making natural skincare mainstream. “Using a 100% natural lip balm is key to bypass irritation.” While often overlooked, our lips’ health is as integral to maintain as our face, as we ingest whatever encounters their barrier.
Why do our lips need prepping? “Lacking sweat and oil glands, our lips are more susceptible to damage from various environmental factors, such as dry air and sun exposure,” explains Mathilde La Merre, director of innovation at Patchology. “Dehydration and weather conditions often cause the lips to lose their natural moisture, leading to dryness and cracking.” External factors from medication use to seasonal changes can also have major effects on our lips.
La Merre suggests adapting your lip care routine to these changes: “Provide extra hydration in the winter and apply an appropriate SPF during .
