For many of us, lipstick is more than just a beauty product; it’s a confidence booster, a mood lifter and a way to express ourselves. Yet, finding one that not only looks great but also cares for our lips can be a daunting task.
Our lips are one of the most sensitive and exposed parts of our body, yet they’re often neglected in our skincare routines. Dry, chapped lips can be painful and uncomfortable, affecting our daily lives. With countless options available, choosing the right lipstick can be overwhelming.
The importance of moisturising ingredients
Moisturising ingredients are essential for maintaining hydrated lips. Shea butter, for instance, nourishes and hydrates, while vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant and moisturiser. Jojoba or argan oil hydrates, conditions, and balances, while glycerin, a humectant, retains moisture, ensuring lips stay hydrated.
Providing nourishment and protection
A good lipstick should not only provide colour but also protect your lips. There’s a reason that over 70% of cosmetic products contain palm oil and its derivatives. Palm oil is a non-drying oil, similar to olive oil, peanut oil, and cocoa butter. Rich in vitaminsA & E, it provides a smooth texture, while its unique balance of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids makes it an excellent emollient that supports hydration. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated lips, promoting healthy tissue regeneration.
Natural alternatives for lip care
For those preferring natural ingredients, cocoa butter is an excellent option. It nourishes, moisturises and protects lips, leaving them feeling pampered. Avocado oil, too, nourishes and protects, providing a healthy and radiant glow. Green tea extract, an antioxidant, hydrates and soothes lips.
Emollient essentials
The primary ingredients in the creation of lipstick are wax, oil, alcohol and pigments (colouring). Some other secondary ingredients are “glycerine, glyceryl stearate, caprylic/ capric triglyceride, isopropyl myristate, octyldodecyl myristate and cetyl alcohol” all of which are derivatives of palm oil.
These ingredients are emollients that amplify the retention and enrichment of pigmentation.
Emollients fill gaps between skin cells, providing a smooth texture. Petrolatum moisturises, protects and conditions lips, while dimethicone hydrates, smooths and protects. Cyclomethicone hydrates, conditions and protects, providing a lightweight and non-greasy texture.
Another reason for the widespread use in lipsticks, is that palm oil is odourless owing its natural smell, and the melting points increases when palm oil is added to the production.
Check for sustainably sourced ingredients
Making responsible choices can also act as a balm for your conscience. Choosing products that have used certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO) ensures that the products you buy use responsibly sourced ingredients.
Choosing the right lipstick
When shopping for lipsticks, look for labels that indicate moisturizing, hydrating, nourishing and soothing properties. Optfor long-lasting lipsticks that won’t dry out your lips. By selecting lipsticks with these ingredients, you’ll enjoy soft, supple lips, long-lasting hydration and protection from environmental stressors.
By prioritising lip care, you’ll experience a healthy, radiant glow. Your lips will thank you for the extra attention. Don’t settle for lipsticks that dry out your lips; instead, choose products that provide moisture, nourishment and protection.
(The author, Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, is a Medical director & Founder, of Isaac Luxe.)
