• Skin care
  • Products

All About Lips: lip care

“(...) lip gloss and tints are becoming the new lip balms” (Vogue India, 2024) - The trend toward skinification of lips shows that lip care is just as important as facial care. Lip products with high-quality active ingredients make all the difference when it comes to transforming chapped lips into smooth, eye-catching ones.

Contents

THE UNIQUENESS OF THE LIP SKIN

The skin on the lips is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of the skin on the face. It consists of a very thin layer of the stratum corneum, which makes it particularly permeable to moisture and external influences. In fact, the lips lose up to five times more water than other areas of the skin. Without sweat or sebaceous glands, they also lack a natural barrier to protect them from dryness.The lip vermilion, i.e., the visible red area of the lips, also contributes to this uniqueness. Its fine structure allows blood vessels to show through, giving the lips their characteristic color. At the same time, the melanin content here is particularly low, making the lips more susceptible to UV rays and sun damage.The result: without proper care, the lips dry out quickly, become chapped or cracked, and lose their natural radiance.

Proper lip care: what you need to know
Proper care is essential to prevent chapped lips. The best lip care products combine ingredients that moisturize, strengthen the skin barrier, and provide protection.Important ingredients for healthy lips: Ceramides: These skin-identical lipids strengthen the natural barrier of the lips and prevent moisture loss – ideal for dry lips. Panthenol: Soothes irritated skin, provides intensive moisture, and supports regeneration of cracks and chapped areas.Shea butter: Forms a protective film on the lips and protects them from external influences such as cold or dry heated air. Tip: In winter, it is particularly important to use a rich lip care product. Products with occlusive ingredients such as shea butter protect the lips from dry air and cold temperatures.

WHY UV PROTECTION IS ESSENTIAL FOR LIPS

The skin on the lips is naturally sensitive to UV rays because it contains very little melanin—the pigment that protects our skin from sun damage. The vermilion border of the lips is particularly susceptible to UV damage due to its thin structure and high permeability. Long-term UV exposure can not only lead to dryness and cracking, but also accelerate the aging of the lips. Without adequate protection, there is even a risk of sunburn on the lips, which can cause lasting damage to the sensitive skin. Studies show that UV rays promote the breakdown of collagen, which can cause the lips to lose fullness and develop fine lines. In addition, the lack of a barrier function in the skin of the lips increases the risk of sun damage such as pigment changes or even actinic keratoses, such as rough, scaly patches of skin, which are considered a possible precursor to skin cancer. High UV protection in lip care is essential to protect your lips from light-induced damage. Products with SPF 50 offer the best protection—not only in summer, but throughout the year.

Reminder
In order for the specified sun protection factor (SPF) to be fully effective, it is important to apply sunscreen generously—even on the lips. A single application is not enough: eating, drinking, or lip movements can reduce the protection throughout the day. To optimally protect the sensitive skin of the lips, sunscreen should be reapplied regularly.

THE SECRET TO BEAUTIFUL LIPS
The lip vermilion, i.e., the red area of the lips, is not only an aesthetic highlight but also one of the most sensitive areas of the face. The red color of the lips is caused by the low keratin density and the underlying blood vessels, which are visible through the thin skin. But the beauty of the lips goes far beyond their color—they contribute significantly to the harmony and aesthetics of the entire face. Studies show that symmetrical and full lips in relation to the width of the face are particularly attractive. For many, the attractiveness of the lips is even defined by mathematical proportions such as the golden ratio, which has been considered a symbol of beauty and harmony since the time of da Vinci. A well-groomed lip vermilion contributes significantly to emphasizing the natural beauty of the lips.

<p>WARUM UV-SCHUTZ FÜR DIE LIPPEN UNVERZICHTBAR IST</p>
<p>WARUM UV-SCHUTZ FÜR DIE LIPPEN UNVERZICHTBAR IST</p>

Age-related changes to the skin of the lips

As we age, not only does our facial skin change, but so does the structure of our lips. The vermilion border becomes flatter and shows increased inward inversion, causing the three-dimensional shape of the lips to lose definition. At the same time, characteristic elements such as redness, the Cupid's bow, and the philtrum fade. The surface structure also changes: radial wrinkles appear and the white contour line (white roll) becomes less visible.

These changes are due to a combination of internal factors, such as the natural aging process, and external influences, such as UV radiation and environmental pollutants. Blood circulation in the lips decreases, causing them to appear less "plump." At the same time, the composition of lipids changes, including important ceramides, which are responsible for the barrier function and moisture retention.

With the right care, healthy lips can be maintained. Ingredients such as ceramides and panthenol support the skin structure, while integrated UV protection protects against sun damage.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Lips are much more than just a visual detail—they are sensitive and need special attention. With the right lip care, you can not only prevent chapped lips, but also achieve long-lasting softness. Look for ingredients that moisturize, strengthen the barrier, and provide protection to keep your lips supple and healthy all year round. Your lips deserve it!

FAQ

Dry lips are often caused by external influences such as cold, dry heating air, UV radiation or frequent licking of the lips. A vitamin deficiency (e.g. vitamin B2) or a general lack of fluids can also contribute to dry and chapped lips.

Even if the body is sufficiently hydrated, the lips can remain dry. The skin of the lips has no sebaceous glands to protect it from moisture loss. External factors such as wind, sun or heating air can also increase the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of the lips and increase dryness.

Choose a lip balm with ingredients such as panthenol, ceramides, and shea butter to soothe the skin and strengthen its barrier function. Avoid licking your lips, as this can make dryness worse. Especially in winter, it is advisable to use a rich balm that moisturizes and forms a protective film on the lips.

Yes, a lack of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B2, B6 or iron, can promote dry or cracked lips. If dry lips persist despite care and adequate hydration, a blood test by a doctor could provide information.

Burning or inflamed lips can be caused by irritation, allergies or UV damage. Use a mild lip balm with soothing ingredients such as panthenol. If symptoms persist or open wounds occur, it may be advisable to consult a dermatologist.

If the lips crack repeatedly, this may indicate a weakened skin barrier. Regular care with ingredients such as panthenol and ceramides is essential. Avoid irritants such as perfumed products or lip licks, which can hinder healing.

Sunburn on the lips can be very painful. Cooling and soothing products alleviate the discomfort. In future, a lip balm with sun protection (SPF50) will help to prevent sun damage.