Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and it seems fitting to focus on the lips, an often neglected body part.
At this time of year in particular, when low humidity and low temperatures contribute to skin dryness, the lips can take a beating. Exposure to UV rays (yes, UVA rays are prevalent even during winter), smoke and pollution can take their toll leaving lips looking flaky and dry. This may lead to soreness and or bleeding. Aging can deliver another blow by contributing to a decrease in collagen production resulting in thin, discolored lips, with fine lines and wrinkles surrounding them.
Because skin on the lips is extremely thin and lacks oil glands, it is more prone to dryness and damage than other parts of the body. The daily use of a well formulated UVA and UVB blocking lip balm is important to protect against sun damage. And, supplementing with hydrating lip balms/creams throughout the day and at night will help to provide and seal in much needed moisture.
Combating Lip Wrinkles And Thinness
If your lips are beginning to thin, you may decide to opt for a surgical treatment with fillers. However, if your budget or your philosophy don’t lean this way, you may want to consider non-invasive lip treatments that have recently been introduced. Some lip treatments contain peptides, which have been shown to enhance the production of collagen that naturally declines with aging. Chemical exfoliants (alpha hydroxy acids – AHAs – for example) or manual ones (sugar scrubs, etc) will assist in improving the appearance of lips by removing dead, dry skin cells. AHAs are also thought to boost collagen production helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Lips may also benefit from retinol, a Vitamin A derivative, which stimulates collagen production and increases skin cell turnover.
Ingredients such as cinnamon leaf oil or niacin are great as temporary fix for plumper lips. They act as skin irritants, helping to boost circulation to the lip area leaving them looking fuller and redder. Both ingredients can irritate lips if applied over zealously so take care. And, don’t apply full strength solutions of either directly to lips as it will be far too irritating.
For lips that rival Angelina Jolie’s, here are some products to consider:
- Anthelios Lip Stick SPF 50+ or Antherpos Cream SPF 50 – UVA/UVB protection and soothing emollients will protect and moisturize
- Neostrata Anti-Wrinkle Lip Enhancer – Formulated with peptides, retinol and niacin, this new formulation is ideal for individuals concerned about thinning lips as well as wrinkles and fine lines
- Dr Hauschka Lip Balm and Dr Hauschka Lipstick are full of emollient botanicals to sooth irritated dry lips.
