Exfoliation is an essential component of any skincare routine to maintain a smooth, soft, and radiant complexion. While many people have perfected their exfoliation methods for the face and body, incorporating chemical peels, lactic acid serums, or gritty body scrubs, the lips are often neglected. It’s time to add a lip scrub to your regimen.
Exfoliating your lips may be even more important than exfoliating other parts of your body, as lips lack oil glands. “Even your nail beds have oil glands,” notes Sara Happ, a lip care expert and founder of her eponymous lip care line. “Lips cannot shed dead skin on their own or self-hydrate. They are also very delicate, with only three to five layers of skin compared to about 15 layers on the face. Proper lip care involves daily exfoliation and hydration.” The best lip scrubs can help achieve both tasks efficiently.
What is a Lip Scrub?
Similar to face or body scrubs, lip scrubs are physical exfoliators designed to remove the top layer of dead skin and debris, revealing smoother skin underneath. “Lip scrubs usually contain small particles like sugar or salt to exfoliate dead skin cells, combined with moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil to nourish and hydrate lips,” explains Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
Benefits of Using a Lip Scrub
Dr. Garshick highlights several benefits of using a lip scrub, with the primary one being the removal of dead skin cells to achieve softer, smoother lips. “This improves the texture and appearance of lips, making them look healthier and more vibrant,” she says. Additionally, lip scrubs can reduce chapped and flaky lips, particularly in dry or cold weather, and prepare lips for smooth lipstick or gloss application. Regular exfoliation enhances the absorption of lip balms and overnight treatments, leading to more hydrated and healthy lips over time.
How to Use a Lip Scrub
Using a lip scrub is straightforward, according to Rachel Lozina, a licensed master esthetician and founder of Blue Water Spa in Southampton, New York. “After washing your face, gently apply the scrub to your lips in a circular motion,” she advises. “Avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent damaging the delicate skin.” After about 30 seconds, you can rinse off the scrub or lick it off if it is safe to do so.
Lozina also recommends using a lip scrub as the final step in your makeup routine to remove any foundation on your lips and prepare them for lip products. After exfoliating, apply a balm, lip liner, gloss, or lipstick. Experts suggest using a lip scrub two to three times a week to maintain soft lips, although a highly nourishing scrub can be used daily.
Do You Need a Lip Scrub?
“If you have lips, you need to exfoliate them topically for optimal smoothness and hydration,” says Happ. Signs that your lips need exfoliation include dryness, flakiness, and cracking. Regular use of a lip scrub can eliminate chronic dryness and chapping, making lip scrubs an essential part of lip care.
Related topics:
How Does Neutrogena Microdermabrasion Work?
The Essential Role of Toners in Skincare
Injectable Moisturisers: A Deeper Look into Hydrating Skincare
