Valentine’s Day is coming, and on top of making the dinner reservations and planning the perfect evening, you want to make sure you’re ready when you and your significant someone start getting closer, and that your lips and mouth are in great shape.
Although we’re fortunate to enjoy mild winters here in Arizona, we’re still exposed to wind, dry air and low humidity, which weaken the skin of our lips, which can lead to tiny splits and cracks. Also, the sun’s rays can cause UV damage to all exposed parts of your body, including your lips, and here in the desert, we must contend with 300+ sunny days a year.
Your lips have very thin surface layers of skin, so they dry out more quickly than the rest of your face. Topical emollients, or lip balms, act as a shield between the delicate skin of your lips and the elements, which helps them stay in shape, but which are the best balms for your kisser?
A great lip balm seals in the moisture on the skin of your lips and gives them extra hydration with beneficial oils. The barrier that the balm creates also helps seal deep cracks and splits, protecting them from infection and irritation. Look for these types of ingredients that accomplish this task:
- Petrolatom (the most common)
- Castor Seed Oil
- Shea Butter
- Sunflower Seed Oil
Also look for SPF so your lips stay protected against the sun. Aveeno Lip Conditioner Essential Moisture SPF 15 and Blistex Lip Infusion SPF 15 won praise from the experts.
Be sure to balm often, especially right before bed, and although some claim that they’re “addicted” to their lip balm, there’s no addictive ingredient in non-medicated lip balms. There are, however, some common ingredients in lip balm that can actually make the problem worse, such as eucalyptus, menthol and camphor, and if you use one of these, you may feel as if your lips are dryer than before balming. Also, if you’re prone to acne, you may want to avoid the balms with petrolatum, which can clog pores and cause pimples and blackheads.
It’s the time of year to start taking care of your lips, so that you’re ready for that magic moment. It’s also a great time to find an affordable dentist in Arizona and find a dental professional who can take care of the inside of your mouth!
