Monday, November 10, 2008

Pucker Up!

In this day and age of shimmer and shine, a sure deal breaker for me is rough, dry lips. Gloss and shimmer, though very pretty (when not overly done) also accentuates dryness and lines on the lips. Make it a daily habit to exfoliate your lips after brushing your teeth. Don't do it too vigorously as lips are thinner-skinned than the rest of your face. There are so many products out there which claim to plump up and reduce the unwanted. Here are my top picks:

KIEHL'S LIP BALM #1
Aside from the simple, no frills, easy-to-use tube, this lip balm is the brand's best selling product used by both men and women. What sealed the deal for me is that it has SPF 15, which makes it perfect for everyday, anywhere use. We slather so much stuff at the beach but sometimes forget that lips need protection too.

BROWNIE POINTS
: It comes in tinted shades for those who want a lip-stain effect sans the extra product.



SMITH'S ROSEBUD SALVE
All else aside, I love the vintage packaging and smell of rose petals. It reminds me of my Grandmother...in fact, I discovered this on her dressing table. Try to avoid sticking your finger (or someone else's!!!) in the can. Use a Q-tip or lip brush instead to avoid contamination of bacteria which leads to its shorter shelf life.

CHERRY ON TOP
: Also relieves minor skin irritations, diaper rash and detergent burns




BURT'S BEES BEESWAX LIP BALM
This is perfect for those who only like to use all-natural products. It's non-greasy formula takes the cake for those who don't want to look like they just gobbled up greasy fries. Perfect for men who would rather die than be seen with any cosmetic product in their pocket. Twist-up tube keeps it free from bacteria and germs.

IN THE MIX: Beeswax, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Peppermint


SHU UEMURA PRINCIPE LIP SERUM
The Principe (PRAN-SEEP) line's active ingredient is Amino Acid. To put it simply, Amino Acid serves as food for collagen cells. Aside from alleviating dryness, it instantly plumps up the lips and with regular use, restores the natural color of the lips. Smokers will benefit from this product or those whose lips have darkened with aging and sun exposure.

PRO TIP: use this at night while the body builds new cells and Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 for fool-proof kissable puckers.



KIEHL'S BABY LIP BALM
Sensitivity and allergy-tested makes it safe for children, infants and adults who are prone to reactions with fragranced products. Because of its super emolient ingredients, it may have a tendency to melt faster than regular lip balm so keep it away from the sun and heat.

THE GOOD STUFF: Avocado Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Beeswax