Guarding Lips

 

 

Guard Lips against aging and the sun's affects:

Just like the rest of our skin, the lips need protection from sunburn and premature aging. Infact, they can be prone to precancerous changes and skin cancers. One advice for taking care of them is also the same-- avoiding the sun when we can, in addition to using sunblock every day, whether it rains or shines. Use a lip balm that includes Zinc and has SPF more than 30, not higher than 50. 

To minimize lines and wrinkles around the lips and mouth, make sure to hydrate year-round with a moisturizer such a Baby oil. This is especially important right after a shower to effectively lock in moisture. While you brush your teeth, once done, exfoliate the lips gently with the wet tooth brush, to remove dead skin. Avoiding smoking and pursing of the lips, as both can cause wrinkles around the mouth. In addition, don't lick your lips when they are dry, they can be chapped easily. 

If the lips are dry, itchy or red, look for balms with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, beeswax, natural oils or petroleum. Avoid lip balms that contain retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid, retinol palmitate, parabens and lanolin, as these chemicals may irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions. 

Remember to  treat your lips as much as your treat your skin and they will feel better and help you not gain wrinkles too.