Why your lips need skincare more than your face

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? 

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 the summer months.”

One thing you should stop doing to your lips

People who frequently lick their lips risk disrupting the natural pH balance of the skin, says La Merre. “Although it often provides temporary relief, licking your lips can strip them of their natural moisture and cause them to dry out even more. Always use a balm or lip mask for added hydration.”

Lip Q Liquorice Balm 30g,  £9.95

One thing you should start doing for your lips?

If there’s one thing to incorporate into your routine, it’s hydration, says La Merre. “Always have a nourishing balm on hand to prevent dryness and prioritise lip hydration in your daily routine.

“It’s important to establish a regular lip routine that stops your lips from drying out overnight, and having a hydrating treatment with you means you can quickly treat your lips whenever they feel dry.”

Patchology Lip Service Gloss-to-Balm Treatment, £12

The experts’ step-by-step guide to perfect plump lips

1. Prioritise hydration, exfoliation and protection.

Alongside balms and SPF, “Lip scrubs can effectively remove dead skin cells,” says La Merre. “However, they should not be used more than twice a week and should always be followed by a mask to rehydrate the lips.”

Incorporating products that contain natural oils, enzymes and vitamins is far better for long-term lip health than chemical-based formulas.