WHAT ARE YOU USING ON YOUR LIPS?!

LIP CAUTION!

I have been moved to write this blog because of the large number of patients we are seeing at the clinic who are concerned with congestion around their lips and chin.... even if congestion is not of a concern anywhere else in there skin.

Most patients have one thing in common. They are using a petrochemical or highly synthetic bases product on their lips.  And some or most of these products are not designed to be used on the lips. 

What are these products? 

Listing from most commonly used:

1. Papaw ointment
2. Vaseline
3. Lip Gloss

Papaw ointment: 

The manufacturers of papaw list the benefits as:

• Minor Burns & Scalds
• Sunburn
• Gravel Rash, Cuts & Minor Open Wounds
• Nappy Rash & Chafing
• Insect Bites
• Splinters & Thorns

These are all great ways to use Papaw ointment.  Please note that 'lip balm' is not listed as a use.

Papaw ointment has 2 main ingredients - Carica Papaya 39mg/g Fresh Fermented Fruit
and Pharmaceutical Grade Petroleum Jelly.  Petroleum Jelly is a petrochemical and is also the main ingredient in Vaseline.  Although petroleum jelly is safe and inert (will not impact the body), it is an extreme comedogenic (likely to cause clogged pores/ blackheads/congestion/acne). 

Please only use this product for what it is recommended.  It is a great healer, but should only be used short term, not daily!

Vaseline:

Is a comedogenic and should not be used daily on the lips.  You may notice breakouts/clogged pores increasing when using this as a lip balm, plus you may also find your lips become dryer and need more moisturising.

Lip Gloss:

Please check the ingredients on your lip gloss.  Highly synthetically fragranced & petrochemical based.  Both of these ingredient groups are also highly comedogenic, plus the fragrance can cause added irritations.

My advice:

 Make sure you have enough omega 3 in your diet.  Drink plenty of water.  Cut down or out alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes.  Use your professional product eye balm on your lips. Wear sunscreen. Avoid excessive sun and wind exposure.

Inika do GREAT certified organic lip glosses and lip sticks.

For short term sun protection when you know you are more likely to experience sore lips, such at the beach or snow, I recommend the original Chap Stick with SPF.  Remember, this is only short term, not daily.

Visit your local skin clinic for advice on ongoing dry/cracked/sore lips to obtain the perfect pout!

Then pucker up!! 

Paula :)