ALL ABOUT LIPS: LIP CARE
ALL ABOUT LIPS: LIP CARE
"(...) lip gloss and tints are becoming the new lip balms" (Vogue India, 2024) - The Skinification of Lips trend shows that lip care is just as important as facial care. Lip products with high-quality active ingredients make all the difference when it comes to transforming chapped lips into supple eye-catchers.
Are you looking for lip care for very dry lips? Click here to go directly to the store:
THE UNIQUENESS OF THE LIP SKIN
The skin on the lips is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of the facial skin. It consists of a very fine layer of stratum corneum, which makes it particularly permeable to moisture and external influences. In fact, the lips lose up to five times more water than other areas of skin. Without sweat or sebaceous glands, they also lack a natural barrier that protects against dryness.
The lip vermilion, i.e. the visible red area of the lips, also contributes to this uniqueness. Its fine structure allows blood vessels to shine through, giving the lips their characteristic color. At the same time, the melanin content here is particularly low, making the lips more susceptible to UV rays and sun damage.
The result: without proper care, lips dry out quickly, become chapped or cracked and lose their natural radiance.
Proper lip care: What you should know
To avoid chapped lips, the right care is essential. The best lip care products combine ingredients that moisturize, strengthen the skin barrier and provide protection.
Important ingredients for healthy lips:
- CeramidesThese skin-identical lipids strengthen the lips' natural barrier and prevent moisture loss - ideal for dry lips.
- PanthenolSoothes irritated skin, provides intensive moisture and supports the regeneration of cracks and chapped areas.
- Shea butterForms a protective film on the lips and protects them from external influences such as cold or dry heating air.
Tip: In winter, it is particularly important to use a rich lip care product. Products with occlusive ingredients such as shea butter protect the lips from dry air and cold temperatures.
WHY UV PROTECTION IS ESSENTIAL FOR LIPS
Lip skin is naturally sensitive to UV rays as it contains hardly any melanin - the pigment that protects our skin from sun damage. The lip vermilion in particular is more susceptible to UV-induced damage due to its thin structure and high permeability.
Long-term UV exposure can not only lead to dryness and cracking, but also accelerate the ageing of the lips. Without adequate protection, there is even a risk of sunburn on the lips, which can cause lasting damage to the sensitive skin. Studies show that UV rays promote the breakdown of collagen, causing lips to lose their fullness and fine lines to appear. In addition, the lack of barrier function of the lip skin increases the risk of sun damage such as pigment changes or even actinic keratosis, e.g. rough, scaly patches of skin that are considered a possible precursor to skin cancer.
A high level of UV protection in lip care is essential to protect your lips from light-induced damage. Products with SPF 50 offer the best protection - not just in summer, but all year round.
Reminder
In order for the sun protection factor (SPF) to be fully effective, it is important to apply the sunscreen generously - including on the lips. A single application is not enough: Eating, drinking or moving your lips can cause the protection to wear off over the course of the day. Sunscreen should be reapplied regularly to provide optimum protection for sensitive lip skin.
Nourishing Lip Tint SPF 50
SPF 50 protects against UV radiation.
Postbiotics have a nourishing and antioxidant effect.
Ceramides strengthen the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.
Panthenol has a moisturizing effect.
Peptide stimulates collagen synthesis.
Developed by dermatologist Dr. Emi Arpa.
Coast through the cosmos!
THE SECRET OF BEAUTIFUL LIPS
The lip vermilion, i.e. the red area of the lips, is not only an aesthetic highlight, but also one of the most sensitive areas of the face. The red coloration of the lips is caused by the low keratin density and the underlying blood vessels, which are visible through the thin skin. But the beauty of the lips goes far beyond their color - they contribute significantly to the harmony and aesthetics of the entire face.
Studies show that symmetrical and full lips are particularly attractive in relation to the width of the face. For many, the attractiveness of the lips is even defined by mathematical proportions such as the golden ratio, which has been a symbol of beauty and harmony since the time of da Vinci. A well-maintained Lip Vermilion makes a significant contribution to emphasizing the natural beauty of the lips.
Age-related changes to the skin of the lips
As we age, not only does our facial skin change, but also the structure of our lips. The lip vermilion becomes flatter and shows an increased inversion inwards, causing the three-dimensional shape of the lips to lose definition. At the same time, characteristic elements such as the redness, the cupid's bow and the philtrum fade. The surface structure also changes: radial wrinkles appear and the white contour line (white roll) becomes less visible.
These changes are due to a combination of internal factors, such as the natural ageing process, and external influences, such as UV radiation and environmental pollutants. The blood flow to the lips decreases, making them appear less "plump". At the same time, the composition of lipids changes, including important ceramides, which are responsible for the barrier function and moisture retention.
Healthy lips can be maintained with the right care. Ingredients such as ceramides and panthenol support the skin structure, while integrated UV protection protects against sun damage.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Lips are much more than just a visual detail - they are sensitive and need special attention. With the right lip care, you can not only avoid chapped lips, but also achieve soft lips in the long term. Look for ingredients that moisturize, strengthen the barrier and provide protection to keep your lips supple and healthy all year round.
Your lips deserve it!
FAQ
Dry lips are often caused by external influences such as cold, dry heating air, UV radiation or frequent licking of the lips. A vitamin deficiency (e.g. vitamin B2) or a general lack of fluids can also contribute to dry and chapped lips.
Even if the body is sufficiently hydrated, the lips can remain dry. The skin of the lips has no sebaceous glands to protect it from moisture loss. External factors such as wind, sun or heating air can also increase the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of the lips and increase dryness.
The disadvantages include possible skin irritation, redness and increased sensitivity to UV rays. It is therefore important not to leave the peeling on for longer than 3 minutes when first applying it and to always use sun protection on the following days to protect the skin from damage.
Use lip care with ingredients such as panthenol, ceramides and shea butter to soothe the skin and strengthen the barrier function. Avoid licking your lips as this can exacerbate dryness. Especially in winter, a rich moisturizer is recommended that moisturizes and forms a protective film on the lips.
Yes, a lack of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B2, B6 or iron, can promote dry or cracked lips. If dry lips persist despite care and adequate hydration, a blood test by a doctor could provide information.
Burning or inflamed lips can be caused by irritation, allergies or UV damage. Use a mild lip balm with soothing ingredients such as panthenol. If symptoms persist or open wounds occur, it may be advisable to consult a dermatologist.
If the lips crack repeatedly, this may indicate a weakened skin barrier. Regular care with ingredients such as panthenol and ceramides is essential. Avoid irritants such as perfumed products or lip licks, which can hinder healing.
Sunburn on the lips can be very painful. Cooling and soothing products alleviate the discomfort. In future, a lip balm with sun protection (SPF50) will help to prevent sun damage.
Related blog posts
Frank K, Moellhoff N, Swift A, Green JB, Schuster L, Gotkin RH, Hernandez CA, Voropai D, Haas EM, Cotofana S. (2022). In Search of the Most Attractive Lip Proportions and Lip Volume: An Eye Tracking- and Survey-Based Investigation. Plast Reconstr Surg, 150(2), 301-308.
Kar M, Muluk NB, Bafaqeeh SA, Cingi C. (2018). Is it possible to define the ideal lips? Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital, 38(1), 67-72.
Kobayashi H, Tagami H. (2004). Functional properties of the surface of the vermilion border of the lips are distinct from those of the facial skin. Br J Dermatol, 150(3), 563-7.
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Vogue India, Hasina Jeelani. (2024, June 7). How skincare-infused lip gloss and tints are becoming the new lip balms. URL: https://www.vogue.in/content/how-skincare-infused-lip-gloss-and-tints-are-becoming-the-new-lip-balms
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