You can not go on a first date, head outside in the winter, or spend a whole day at the beach without lip balm. Whether you go with classic Chapstick or a flavored one, you should agree that this beauty product is a must for any cosmetic bag.
We will talk about being addicted to Chapstick and all kinds of other myths and lore surrounding lip balm. But it is tough to know whether or not you need the stuff. But read the article to learn all about lip balm.
Do You Really Need Lip Balm?
Yes, you should use lip balm, and here are the reasons. Our lips are generally made up of only 3 to 5 layers of skin. They also miss the same oil glands or sebaceous glands like the rest of our body. This combo makes our lips extremely prone to drying out without a moisturizer.
Here are the some of the reasons why everyone needs lip balm:
Lack of Moisture
The lack of humidity especially during the winter months causes your lips to crack. But during the summer, they will feel dry due to sun exposure.
Lip balm often helps bring much-needed moisture to your mouth – any time of the year.
Chapping
Flaky or chapped lips never look very good. You can avoid this embarrassing issue by only applying lip balm in moderation, typically when your lips feel insanely dry.
Natural Thinning
Unfortunately, your lips naturally get thinner as you age. When those extra layers of skin are missing, you need another layer of protection. Plus, lip balm helps your mouth appear fuller. You can achieve pink lips too.
SPF Protection
Do you know that your lips miss the outermost layer of skin known as the stratum corneum – the layer which protects you against the sun? As a result, your lips require additional protection from harmful UV rays. Therefore, look for a lip balm that often contains at least SPF 15 or SPF 30.
Softens
If you are puckering up for a kiss, you want your lips to be smooth and soft.
Hence, you should ensure you have a good lip balm or lip gloss (for high shine) on hand, especially before that big date.
Adds Color
Are you taking pictures? Just swipe on a little lip balm beforehand. The cream will help add a little bit of color to your lips. It will be particularly great for Instagram pics or wedding photos. Tinted lip balms can moisturize your dry lips too, so you get color and protection.
How to Apply Lip Balm
You may think it is pretty simple to apply lip balm. You just take the cap off and put it on your lips. Well, there is actually a “right” way to do it!
Here’s how to apply lip balm for the best protection:
Step One: Uncap the container.
If your balm is in a tube, you only need to raise it about a half centimeter. But if it is in a container, just apply a pea-sized amount to your finger.
Step Two: Apply to the bottom lip.
Rub the balm slowly on your bottom lip, just along the outside. As it is the outer section of the lips that becomes dry.
Step Three: Apply to the top lip.
Rub the balm on your top lip, just along the outside.
Step Four: Rub your lips together.
Rub both your top and bottom lip together. The process helps spread the balm evenly over your entire mouth.
You do not have to overdo it when it comes to applying lip balm. A simple swipe on your bottom and top lip is all you really need.
Is It Good to Use Lip Balm Every Day?
Note that you should try to use lip balm in moderation. Some dermatologists believe that the overuse of the balm could cause your lips to stop producing natural oils. Your doctor may also caution that you could feel dependent on the balm for moisture.
Despite these warnings, experts believe that it is still safe for you to use lip balm every day. It is just about being strategic as to when you should apply it. You should be careful and never go through a whole tube or container in a week.
How Often Should You Apply Lip Balm?
According to dermatologists, you should only put the balm a few times throughout the day. However, most experts generally recommend that you apply it in the following situations:
When You Wake Up
Some of you sleep with your mouths open, which may cause your lips to feel dry in the morning. If this sounds like you, take a sip of water and apply lip balm just before getting out of bed.
After Drinking or Eating
Your mouth will naturally feel dry after you are done eating a meal.
It happens especially if you have eaten something hot or spicy. Swipe on balm to help bring back moisture.
When You Go to Bed
Before going to bed, ensure your lips are moisturized after brushing your teeth. It is a good practice to avoid discomfort while trying to snooze.
From morning to bedtime, you would apply the balm about five to eight times every day. It is a good number, and you may feel you are overusing your favorite balm.
What Can You Use Instead of Lip Balm?
Are you trying to kick a balm habit? But you should understand that there are plenty of things you can do instead to bring back moisture to your soft lips. Try any of the following.
Drink Plenty of Water
Your lips might feel dry because they’re dehydrated. Aim to drink about 3 to 4 liters of water every single day. It will help your mouth feel way more moisturized. Drinking water can help a lot as you might know the benefits of drinking water.
Eat Fish or Take Fish Oil Pills
As weird as it might sound, a good fish meal could cause your lips to feel less dry. It is because most dishes contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to keep your skin hydrated. Not a seafood person? Try fish oil pills instead!
Try Sugar & Honey
Do you know that sugar is known to attract moisture, making it a good substitute for lip balm? If you want more flavor, consider adding honey to the mixture and apply it to your lips.
Rub on Cucumber
Cucumbers over your eyes are a typical scene when it comes to a spa day. This tasty salad food can be a good moisturizer for chapped lips. It contains vitamin B, which soothes your skin and reduces inflammation.
Dab on Coconut Oil
Do you know that coconut oil is a top-rated beauty product in Asia? It is used to soften hair, skin, and of course, your lips. Mix the coconut oil with hot water to make it extra silky. You can also use canola, almond, or olive oil to work equally well.
Brew Green Tea
Soak a green tea bag in your favorite mug and let it cool for a few minutes. Then press it to your lips, and you will feel instant relief. Green tea is anti-inflammatory and is excellent when your lips feel raw and cracked.
Apply Vaseline or Aloe Vera
As you might know, aloe vera is a plant with many healing properties. Vaseline can be found at most drugstores or grocery stores. Both are great for your chapped or dry lips.
Use a Humidifier
It could be that there is not enough moisture in the air. Plug in a humidifier, exactly when you are going to bed with the heat on during the winter. It is helpful as it will stop your lips from feeling dried out.
Which Lip Balms Actually Work?
The best balms contain no artificial flavors and are generally made with organic ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and petroleum jelly. You should strictly avoid balms that contain menthol, phenol, or salicylic acid as they will make your lips feel even more dehydrated.
What is the Best Organic Lip Balm?
Only a handful of companies make lip balms that contain natural ingredients like beeswax and shea butter. Your dermatologists will also brands that are less likely to dry out your lips.
Natural lip balms might contain organic flavors like eucalyptus, coconut, and chai. It makes them just as tasty as any other option, but with the added benefit of having no artificial ingredients.
Does Lip Balm Expire?
Yes, it is a good question. The balm does expire, but the exact date varies from brand to brand. Most experts recommend tossing away lip balm after one year, mainly if it contains zinc oxide or SPF.
Non-SPF lip balms, on the other hand, may last a little bit longer. Finally, it is your judgment call. When it looks or smells funny, it is time to toss it in the trash.
The Bottom Line
You definitely need lip balm, even if you do not want to use it all the time. It is an excellent cosmetic to keep in your bag or pocket, especially during the winter. Just make sure you do not overuse it. A few slices of cucumber or a sip of water could be all you need instead of the balm.
Hence, you should ensure you have a good lip balm or lip gloss (for high shine) on hand, especially before that big date.
Here’s how to apply lip balm for the best protection:
You do not have to overdo it when it comes to applying lip balm. A simple swipe on your bottom and top lip is all you really need.
Despite these warnings, experts believe that it is still safe for you to use lip balm every day. It is just about being strategic as to when you should apply it. You should be careful and never go through a whole tube or container in a week. 
It happens especially if you have eaten something hot or spicy. Swipe on balm to help bring back moisture.