7 Pout-Worthy Techniques to Get Softer Lips

Soft, plump lips enhance your appearance and contribute to overall comfort in your body. When your lips are dry and chapped, it can harm your self-image and cause discomfort. It is a common occurrence that is more prominent in harsh weather conditions and neglect to care for them. You can achieve soft, smooth lips with a bit of care and attention. In this article, we will explore some simple techniques and tips for how to get softer lips and maintain the feeling of velvety lips year-round. 

Hydration is Key 

One of the most important aspects of getting softer lips is hydration. Proper hydration ensures your lips retain moisture and prevent dryness and cracking. There are two ways to ensure your lips are hydrated. You should coat your lips with hydrating ingredients and ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking a good amount of water throughout the day can increase the dermal thickness of the skin. Dehydration can directly affect the condition of your lips. 

When browsing options for what to use on your lips, there are certain things in the ingredients to look out for. Look for emollients since they build up the skin barrier. These are anything that has fatty acids, butter and oils. You should take note if a lip balm only has hyaluronic acid or glycerin because they can make the lips drier since they attract moisture. If the air is low in humidity, it will pull the moisture from your lips and evaporate off of them.   

Look for products with hydration-enhancing ingredients and thicker ingredients that offer the protection you need. Great options are shea butter, moringa and sunflower oil. 

Exfoliate Regularly 

Exfoliating your lips is an effective way to remove dead skin and promote a new, fresh surface on your lips. Gently exfoliate your lips once or twice a week with homemade or store-bought lip scrubs. Buffing away the flakes on your lips can help alleviate your chapped lips and smooth out the surface. You can use household ingredients like honey and sugar to create a natural lip scrub.  

One you have a lip scrub, you will want to make sure you use it a few times a week or as much as needed. Here are some steps to follow that will prevent your lips from cracks and bumps. The process should only take about 30 seconds altogether. 

• Remove any makeup or lip balm and ensure your lips are clean and dry.
• Use your lip exfoliate and get a dime-size amount to use on your lips.
• Rub the product on your lips circularly for as long as needed. Remember not to over-exfoliate or scrub too vigorously since the skin on your lips is delicate compared to other areas of the body.
• Rinse with warm water and follow with a hydrating lip balm or mask. It will help nourish them instead of making them chapped from over-rubbing. 

Protect From Harsh Elements 

Cold air or exposure to the sun can cause your lips to be cracked and dry. External factors like this can have a detrimental effect on them. Protect your lips by applying a balm or moisturizing product with SPF before heading outside. It will shield your lips from the sun’s harmful UV rays and prevent them from drying out or getting sunburned. 

Additionally, you should wear clothing items that protect your face. Using a scarf in the winter or a hat in the summer is an excellent way to protect them from the harsh conditions outside. 

Avoid Licking Your Lips

You might think a quick way to cure your cracked lips is by licking them, but it can actually make them worse. It can dry them out even more if there is nothing on top of them to keep the moisture locked in. Instead, reach for a lip balm you carry with you for relief when they feel dry and chapped. 

Along with licking your lips, you should avoid picking your lips too. Do your best to refrain from peeling off dead skin that sits on top of your lips. It needs to stay on until the new skin underneath is ready to be exposed. 

Use a Lip Mask

The skin does the most repairing at night. You can use a lip mask before bed to seal in tons of moisture. It is similar to how you moisturize your skin at night to lock in moisture. A heavier lip mask will help your lips stay hydrated all night. 

Have a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet plays a role in the health and appearance of your lips. You should include foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, so your lips are nourished from within. Foods with fatty acids, like salmon and avocados, can help maintain lip hydration. Spicy and acidic foods can irritate and dry your lips out. Fuel your body with the right nutrients to support your lips’ overall health and softness. 

Layer Lip Products 

If your lips still tend to wither up in seconds after you put on lip balm, you can try laying your lip care products. If you are using an oil or wax-based product, you are not delivering any moisture but just coating the skin. To hydrate the lips, layer a water-based hydrator first and then put the oil or wax on top. It is similar to how you layer your skincare routine so you can lock everything in with a moisturizer. 

The Bottom Line

Having hydrated lips is essential to your appearance and health. With some care, you can get the perfect base for any lipstick or rock them all-natural. Try these tips to get softer lips.