Why Some Lip Balms Make Your Lips Drier (And What to Use Instead)

It's summertime, which means it's prime lip balm season. We're all reaching for that trusty tube to keep our pouts hydrated and happy. But have you ever noticed that some lip balms actually make your lips feel drier after using them? It's not just your imagination - there's a reason behind it.

The Surprising Reason Some Lip Balms Dry Out Your Lips

When you apply a lip balm, you expect it to soothe and moisturize your lips, right? So why do some of them leave your lips feeling even more parched than before? It all comes down to the ingredients.

Many mainstream lip balms contain ingredients like menthol, camphor, and phenol. These ingredients create a temporary "cooling" or "tingling" sensation on the lips, which can feel soothing at first. However, they're actually drying out your lips in the long run.

These ingredients work by irritating the delicate skin on your lips, causing it to lose moisture. Over time, this can lead to cracked, flaky, and chronically dry lips. Yikes!

The Better-for-You Alternatives

The good news is, there are plenty of lip balms out there that won't leave your lips high and dry. Look for formulas that contain nourishing, hydrating ingredients like:

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a rich, creamy fat that's packed with fatty acids and vitamins to deeply moisturize lips.

Beeswax

Beeswax forms a protective barrier on the lips to lock in moisture and prevent water loss.

Oils (like Jojoba, Coconut, or Argan)

Nourishing oils soften and condition the lips.

Glycerin

This humectant draws moisture into the lips and helps keep them hydrated.

Vitamin E

An antioxidant that helps repair and protect the delicate lip skin.

Some of our favorite lip-loving brands include Summer Fridays, Laneige, and Glossier. Their formulas are free of drying irritants and packed with soothing, nourishing ingredients.

How to Exfoliate and Hydrate for Soft, Smooth Lips

Of course, lip balm is just one piece of the puzzle. To keep your lips in tip-top shape, you'll also want to incorporate regular exfoliation and deep hydration into your routine.

Exfoliate Gently

Use a soft, damp washcloth or a lip scrub 1-2 times per week to slough off flaky, dry skin. This allows your lip balm to penetrate more deeply.

Mask for Moisture

Apply a nourishing lip mask or overnight treatment 1-2 times per week. Look for ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to quench thirsty lips.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated from the inside out is key for healthy, supple lips. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.

With the right lip care routine and the right products, you can say goodbye to dry, cracked lips for good. Your pout will be soft, smooth, and oh-so-kissable all summer long.