Lip balm, lipstick, and lip gloss: Here's how to choose the right makeup product for your skin type

Want lips that wow? Lip balm, lipstick, and lip gloss are popular choices for enhancing your lips. Each also serve various functions - lip balm moisturises, lipstick provides colour, and lip gloss adds shine.

Whether you want a subtle, natural look or a bold, glamorous statement, from everyday hydration to nighttime glam, these products can transform your pout.

• Lip balm

Lip balm is a moisturising product that helps to keep your lips hydrated and protected from the elements. It is typically made with beeswax, petroleum jelly, or mineral oil, and it may also contain other ingredients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or vitamin E.

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Benefits of lip balm:

• Moisturises lips: Lip balm helps to keep your lips hydrated, preventing them from becoming chapped or cracked.
• Soothes irritated lips: Lip balm can help to soothe irritated lips, such as those caused by cold sores or fever blisters.

Drawbacks of Lip balm:

• May not provide enough colour: It may not be the best choice if you are looking for a product that will add colour to your lips.
• May not last long: Lip balm may not last long, especially if you are licking your lips or drinking frequently.

• Lipstick

Lipstick is a cosmetic product that specifically adds colour to the lips. It is available in a wide variety of colours, finishes, and formulas.

Benefits of lipstick:

• Adds colour to lips, making them look more attractive.
• Can be used to create different looks: Lipstick can be used to create a variety of different looks, from natural to dramatic.
• Can be long-lasting: Some lipsticks are long-lasting, so you don't have to worry about reapplying them often.

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Drawbacks of lipstick:

• Can be drying, so it is important to choose a moisturising formula.
• Lipstick can be messy, especially if you are not careful when applying it.

• Lip gloss

Lip gloss is a cosmetic product used to add shine and colour to the lips. It is available in a wide variety of colours and finishes.

Benefits of lip gloss:

• Adds shine to lips: Lip gloss can help to add shine to your lips, making them look fuller and more attractive.
• Can be used to create a variety of looks, from natural to dramatic.
• Some lip glosses are moisturising, so they can help to keep your lips hydrated.

Drawbacks of Lip Gloss:

• Lip gloss can be sticky, which can be annoying.
• Lip gloss may not last long, especially if you are eating or drinking.

Also read | Natural beauty hacks: 7 tips to make your lips look fuller

• How to choose the right product

When choosing a lip product, it is important to consider your individual needs.

• Consider your skin type: If you have dry skin, you may want to choose a moisturising lip balm or lipstick. If you have oily skin, you may want to choose a matte lipstick or lip gloss.
• Consider the occasion: If you are going to be wearing the product for a special occasion, you may want to choose a long-lasting lipstick or lip gloss.
• Consider your personal style: If you like a natural look, choose a lip balm or a sheer lipstick. If you like a more dramatic look, you may want to choose a bold lipstick or lip gloss.

Additional Tips

• Exfoliate your lips regularly: Exfoliating your lips will help to remove dead skin cells, making your lips look smoother and healthier.
• Apply lip balm before bed: Applying lip balm before bed will help to keep your lips hydrated overnight.
• Reapply lip products throughout the day: Reapplying lip products throughout the day will help to keep your lips looking their best.