As I have talked about so often before in my blogs in recent years, the beauty and skincare industry has experienced a profound shift towards natural products. Among these, natural lip balms have gained immense popularity. A shocking statistic shows >70% of consumers say they have to re-apply their lip balm repeatedly during the day. Consumers say they feel compelled to use it more often because their lips are dry within an hour of use. They are designed that way, to drive sales. This creates a cycle where the balm becomes a necessity rather than a solution. With increasing awareness about the ingredients we put on our bodies, many consumers are gravitating toward products that are derived from nature, free from harmful chemicals, and more effective. But while natural lip balms are an excellent choice for lip care, they work best when paired with another essential product: lip scrubs. In this blog, I will explore why natural lip balms are better, why incorporating a lip scrub into your routine is necessary for optimal results, and how Tea-licious Skincare embodies these principles.
Understanding Natural Lip Balms
Natural vs. Commercial
Natural lip balms typically contain ingredients derived from plants, such as, shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, Kokum butter and essential oils. They often avoid artificial flavors, preservatives, and synthetics to make them feel, smell and look good at a much lesser cost. Natural lip balms focus instead on nourishing and hydrating properties from nature, not a lab.
Key Ingredients Commonly Found in Natural Lip Balms
Beeswax
Beeswax, a remarkable natural wax crafted by honeybees, is like a tiny fortress for your lips! Not only does it create a protective barrier against harsh environmental elements like wind and pollution, but it also works tirelessly to seal in moisture, keeping your lips soft and hydrated. Imagine the hard work of those busy bees, turning nectar into this golden goodness that not only nourishes but also shields your lips from the elements. With beeswax, you’re not just applying a lip balm; you’re embracing a little piece of nature’s magic that helps your lips thrive!
Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil is a lip-loving treasure that brings the tropical paradise right to your lips! Packed with nourishing goodness, this delightful oil banishes dryness and chapping.
Shea Butter:
Shea butter, a luxurious natural emollient, is renowned for its rich composition of vitamins and fatty acids that delivers essential nutrients that support the skin's natural barrier. By promoting cell regeneration and providing anti-inflammatory benefits, shea butter helps restore softness and resilience, making it an invaluable ally in lip care.
Kokum Butter:
Kokum butter is an excellent choice for lip balm due to its unique properties. This natural fat, derived from the seeds of the Garcinia indica tree. One of the standout features of kokum butter is its ability to penetrate the skin deeply, promoting healing and regeneration. This makes it particularly beneficial for cracked or chapped lips, as it aids in restoring softness and elasticity.
Key Ingredients Found in Commercial Lip Balm
Mass-produced commercial lip balms can contain several harmful ingredients that may pose risks to skin health or overall well-being. Here are some common harmful ingredients that consumers should be aware of:
Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum)
A byproduct of oil refining and proven to not hydrate the skin.
Synthetic Flavors
Synthetic lip balms often use artificial flavors and fragrances, which are chemically derived and can contain a variety of compounds to mimic natural scents and tastes. These ingredients may include phthalates and other chemical additives.
Some consumers may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using synthetic lip balms. The artificial ingredients can be harsh on sensitive skin, leading to dryness or chapping.
Natural Flavors
Natural flavors are derived from fruits, herbs, or spices, either by infusing oils to create a naturally flavored base, or by the process of extracting the flavor from the chosen source. For essential oils, this usually involves steam distillation or cold pressing.
Parabens
Commonly used as preservatives, parabens can disrupt hormonal balance and have been linked to various health concerns.BHA and BHT
These synthetic antioxidants are used to prolong shelf life but has been linked to potential health risks, and have been associated with potential health concerns. BHA is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), while BHT has been linked to endocrine disruption and other adverse health effects in some studies.Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde
Used as preservatives, formaldehyde when applied to the lips, which have thinner skin and higher absorption, it poses a risk due to long-term exposure, even in small amounts, raises concerns about potential cancer risks.
Silicones
Silicones create a barrier on the skin that can trap moisture. While this may initially provide a smooth feel, it can prevent the lips from breathing and lead to a buildup of dead skin cells, resulting in dryness over time. Many consumers now prefer products made with natural ingredients, viewing silicones as synthetic and undesirable. Silicones do not provide any intrinsic hydration. They may give the illusion of moisturized lips but do not offer any nourishing properties. Therefore, users might find themselves reapplying frequently without achieving real hydration.
Hydration and Nourishment
The natural oils and butters in these balms provide superior hydration compared to synthetic options. They penetrate the skin better, delivering essential nutrients that keep lips soft and supple.
Environmental Impact of Packaging
Tea-licious Skincare’s natural lip balms are packaged in biodegradable containers which are a more favorable option compared to plastic dispensers of mass produced commercial lip balms. The significant environmental benefits and consumer appeal of biodegradable tubes make it a clear choice for my brand. Being biodegradable and recyclable, our lip balms reduce long-term waste and promote a circular economy, unlike plastic, which can take centuries to decompose and often ends up in landfills. Lowering our carbon footprint during production, aligning perfectly with the values of eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability.
Cruelty-Free
What does cruelty-free products mean? It means our brand avoids sourcing ingredients that are themselves tested on animals by their suppliers. This commitment to ethical practices appeals to consumers who are concerned about animal welfare and want to support brands that prioritize humane treatment of animals.
Variety of Flavors
Commercial Lip Balms feature bold, synthetic flavors that can be appealing but may contain allergens or irritants. These flavors can range from sweet and fruity to minty and exotic, creating a sensory delight that attracts many buyers. These synthetic flavors may be enticing, but they may not align with those who on a path to finding natural skincare solutions.
Natural Lip Balms use essential oils or natural extracts for flavor, providing a more subtle and authentic taste without the risk of synthetic irritants.
Effectiveness
Research shows that over >60% of consumers prefer products made with natural ingredients, believing they are safer and more effective for their skin.
The formulations of these balms are often much richer in nourishing oils, butters, and natural waxes, specifically designed to heal and protect the delicate skin of the lips.
Natural preparations have been cherished in medicine since ancient times for their amazing healing properties. Today, it’s exciting to see a growing love for these "natural ingredients" in the world of skincare! More products are available which harness the power of these wonderful natural formulations for skincare treatments and protection, making it easier than ever to care for your skin with nature's best.
The Necessity of Lip Scrubs
So why do you need a lip scrub? Until I began this journey I asked the same question. While natural lip balms are excellent for moisturizing and protecting the lips, they work best when the lips are smooth and free from dead skin. This is where lip scrubs come into play. Lip scrubs are exfoliating products designed to remove dead skin cells, revealing softer, healthier lips beneath.
Why Lip Scrubs Are Essential
Exfoliation
The primary function of a lip scrub is to exfoliate dead skin build up. Regular exfoliation helps to slough off dead skin cells that can accumulate on the lips, preventing them from looking dull and flaky.
Improved Absorption
When the lips are free from dead skin, natural lip balms can penetrate more effectively.
Preventing Chapped Lips
By regularly using a lip scrub, you can prevent the formation of dry, cracked lips. This is especially important in harsh weather conditions, where lips can become chapped and painful.
Enhanced Lip Color
Exfoliating the lips can enhance their natural color and make them appear plumper and healthier. This can be particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more natural look without the use of lipsticks or glosses.
Smoother Application
For those who wear lipstick, a smooth lip surface is crucial for an even application. Lip scrubs help create a canvas that allows lipstick to glide on effortlessly, avoiding patchiness or unevenness.
Incorporating Lip Scrubs and Natural Lip Balms into Daily Lip Care
Choose Your Lip Scrub
Select a natural lip scrub that suits your preferences. You can either purchase one from Tea-licious Skincare or make your own using sugar, honey, and a carrier oil like olive oil. To find more DIY skincare recipes follow me on Tea Infused Beauty Academy on Facebook.
Apply the sugar lip scrub to your lips and gently massage it in circular motions for about a minute. This will help to remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
Hydrate with Natural Lip Balm
After exfoliating, apply your natural lip balm from Tea-licious Skincare generously. This will lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier against environmental factors.
Frequency
For best results, exfoliate your lips 1-3 times a week, depending on your skin type and the climate you live in. Follow up with your natural lip balm daily, reapplying as needed.
Stay Hydrated
Remember that hydration starts from within. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and lips hydrated.
Protect Your Lips
In addition to using natural lip balms and scrubs, protect your lips from harsh weather conditions. Use a scarf in cold weather and apply a lip balm with SPF during sunny days.
Conclusion
Natural lip balms are a superior choice for maintaining healthy, hydrated lips, offering a wealth of benefits over conventional products. When paired with lip scrubs, they provide an effective lip care routine that promotes smooth, soft lips. By incorporating natural lip scrubs into your regimen, you ensure that your lips are not only well-moisturized but also free from dead skin, allowing your lip balm to work its magic effectively.
My commitment to using natural ingredients reflects my belief that beauty should be simple, effective, and deeply connected to the natural world. At Tea-licious Skincare, we like our lips like we like our tea—smooth, full-bodied, and warm!
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