1. Stay hydrated
Because the lips do not have an epidermal layer and therefore cannot produce oil (like the skin does), they are more prone to dryness than any other part of the body which can make them appear dull and lacklustre not to mention aged. It is therefore crucial to get on the hydration bandwagon to keep the lips looking smooth, even and full. Bring back moisture to your lips with a replenishing balm like Lip Nourish, which is fortified with natural properties like avocado and sesame seed oil as well as cocoa butter to give lips a smooth, silky texture while retaining moisture. Pair this with drinking two litres of water per day to keep the lips in optimum shape.
2. Protect your pout
Extreme dry patches or pigmentation on the lips can be a sign of over-exposure to UV rays, which is why protecting the pout is a must (natural sunscreens and sheer, nourishing balms are the way to go!). A handy tip I've picked up to lessen the signs of 'freckles' or severely damaged/pigmented skin, is to actually use lemon juice on your lips once in a while. Because lemons are vitamin C rich and contain flavonoid antioxidants they help with collagen production to keep skin wrinkle free and have fabulous brightening properties. Simply massage in gentle circular motions over the skin - no need to wash away the residue, it will absorb. The sourness might make you cringe but you will notice a nice lightening, anti-ageing effect over time. You can also apply organic honey to the lips overnight which has been known to soften lips and them that gorgeous pink glow.
3. Exfoliate as necessary
Lips that are dry, flaky and lacking moisture automatically look thinner and more wrinkled, so it pays to slough away dry bits of skin with a regular exfoliation routine and work out what is making them dry. My favourite thing to fix your lips is to combine brown sugar with organic honey and olive oil, apply to the lips and scrub in gentle circular motions, then remove with a washcloth dampened with lukewarm water. This has the effect of lifting the lips outer layer to reveal the beautiful new skin underneath. Once this is done, you can apply a layer of Lip Nourish over the top which adds a hint of sheer, deliciously bare colour while hydrating your delicate skin. If you're off to bed, use Nude Cinnamon for hydration without colour.
4. Eat for healthy lips
This is a no-brainer! We all know that what you choose to put inside your body will reflect on the outside, so I highly encourage eating raw, nutrient-rich superfoods (goji berries, dark chocolate, chia seeds etc) as regularly as possible to keep the lips well-nourished. It's also crucial to snack on plenty of leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and fresh fruit as well as omega-rich fats like avocado, which all help your skin to glow from the inside out. You might even want to add a fresh green juice to ensure get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
5. Know your ingredient list
Thinning skin is a normal part of the ageing process. It's a breakdown of collagen and a loss of fat cells. But did you know the right ingredients can actually help slow down this process and rejuvenate your lips? My rule is not to put anything on my lips that I wouldn’t consider eating (hence why I've created a whole product line centred around this mantra!). Pure cold pressed organic oils (coconut, olive, jojoba, sweet almond and rosehip oil etc) as well as superfood ingredients, antioxidants and omega 3+6 essential fatty acids help naturally replenish the lips. Their natural properties won't damage the delicate skin cells and have the ability to penetrate deeper. So know your ingredient list natural beauties - all of mine are easily pronounced, food-grade actives that are basically edible. Translation? Mother Nature's Collagen Booster!
6. Be a makeup mastermind
A cheeky little trick to making your pout appear youthful, fuller and more healthy is with a bit of makeup magic. To create the illusion of volume, line the outer edges of your mouth with concealer in the same shade as your foundation and blend it into the fine lines around your lips to help fill them in and prevent feathering. You can then add your Lip Nourish™ over the top. My recommendation? Nude Pink or Tea Rose with a touch of Chai Shimmer over the top in the centre of the pout. The subtle reflection will help the lips appear plumper - a perfect pick-me-up if your have ultra-thin skin around the lips and require a bit of oomph.
7. Kick nasty habits to the curb
Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, even stress - yep, unfortunately they all show up by way of etched lines around the mouth as we get older. Your skin says everything about the kind of lifestyle you lead and most skin problems originate internally, so aim to eliminate any bad habits from your lifestyle - everything in moderation!
8. Exercise for circulation
Being active is a one-way ticket to better circulation in the skin especially when it comes to the lips. Whether you exercise a few times a week or do something quick and brisk on a daily basis, it all helps. Deep breathing allows oxygen to move more cohesively throughout the body which has a beautiful anti-ageing effect, and also promotes efficient elimination, which shows up in your skin health.
9. Smile!
Yes, smile lines do develop over time, but they are much nicer looking than frown lines! You CAN let the mouth do the talking without telling your age! Follow my advice and you're on your way to a soft, sumptuous, kissable lips that exude lustre. Irresistible!