We all have a go-to lip balm tucked into our bags, pockets, or bedside drawers. Whether it’s a thick, buttery formula for chapped lips or a tinted one for that everyday sheen, lip balms are a non-negotiable part of most beauty routines. But here’s something not many people know: you should wet your lips with water before applying your balm. Yes, seriously. It might sound like a small step, but it can make a big difference to how well your lip balm works and how soft your lips feel throughout the day.
Why You Should Wet Your Lips?
Your lips, unlike the rest of your skin, don’t have oil glands. That means they can’t naturally stay moisturised and are more prone to drying, cracking, and flaking. Lip balm works by sealing in moisture, not necessarily adding it. So, if your lips are already dry or flaky, applying balm over them might lock in that dryness instead of soothing it. By wetting your lips with a little water first just a quick dab with your fingertips or a spritz of facial mist you’re adding the moisture your lips need. Then, when you follow up with your balm, it acts like a seal, trapping that hydration in and keeping your lips softer for longer.
It’s a trick that works especially well in dry weather
During colder months or in air-conditioned spaces, your lips tend to lose moisture faster. Applying lip balm on dry lips might give temporary relief, but it won’t really help repair or hydrate deeply. Adding water first gives the balm something to hold on to like giving it a head start.
Also Read: What Are Cinderella Lips And Why Is Everyone Talking About Them?
Avoid licking your lips use actual water
Now, a quick heads-up: this doesn’t mean you should lick your lips before applying balm. In fact, licking your lips can make things worse. Saliva evaporates quickly and leaves your lips even drier than before. So stick to clean water or a gentle mist.
Bonus tip: exfoliate once or twice a week, If your lips are constantly peeling or flaky, a gentle lip scrub once or twice a week can help remove dead skin so your balm works better. Just make sure not to overdo it your lips are delicate! Once you’ve added water, you want to lock it in with a balm that has nourishing ingredients. Look for formulas with shea butter, lanolin, beeswax, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid. Avoid overly glossy, sticky formulas with too much fragrance they can sometimes do more harm than good.
Think of it like skincare for your lips: cleanse (or dampen), then moisturise. It’s a tiny tweak, but wetting your lips before applying balm helps them stay hydrated longer, look smoother, and feel healthier.
Also Read: THIS 3 Step Routine Is All You Need To Ensure Your Red Lipstick Lasts Beyond A Hundred Kisses!