Newswise — Do you find yourself reaching for it morning, noon and night? Apply, apply and reapply all day long? Can't go a day without it in hand? Dermatologists say many of us act as if we're addicted to lip balm. So is that a bad thing?
"For many people it is quite difficult for them to stop using lip balm because they've become used to their lips having more moisture content than they had in the past," says Lisa Garner, M.D., dermatologist on the medical staff at Baylor Medical Center at Garland.
So just how do lip balms keep dryness at bay?
"When you put a lip balm on your lips you actually block the loss of natural moisture into the environment," explains Dr. Garner. "So you actually keep more of your own natural moisture; as if you seal it in."
Are there any problems associated with a lip balm addiction? Dermatologists say 'no,' as long as you don't develop an allergy to any of the ingredients.
"On occasion you may develop an irritation or sensitivity to one of the ingredients that may make your lips feel dry because you're actually having a reaction to the lip balm," says Dr. Garner.
If trying out a lip balm causes you any problems it could be the flavoring, fragrance or added preservatives that are the culprit. In those cases, opting for the unflavored or unscented variety may be your best bet.
And by buying balms with SPF protection your addiction may prove to have an upside. "Actually having a sunscreen in your lip balm can prove beneficial long term," adds Dr. Garner.
According to the experts there isn't much difference in the effectiveness of a 99-cent lip balm and a much more expensive product.
For more information about Baylor Medical Center at Garland, visit http://www.BaylorHealth.com.
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