If you’re eagerly anticipating your Valentine’s Day kiss, it’s important that your lips are in tip-top shape before you pucker up. With these tips from leadingย dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields, you can ensure your pucker is kiss-worthy for Valentine’s Dayย andย every day of the year.
Kick the Habit
Smoking, that is! Not only can smoking wreak havoc on your health, but it also increases wrinkles around the mouth – and makes you taste like an ash tray. If you’re looking for a reason to quit, these are as good as any.
Ditch the Straw
Sipping from a straw might prevent teeth stains, but it doesn’t help the appearance of your pout. In fact, the motions your mouth makes when you’re drinking a beverage through a straw can become permanent, leading to the onset of wrinkles. Skip the straw and use a whitening toothpaste, instead – your pucker will thank you.
Moisturize
Lips do not produce their own oil like the rest of our face. Because of this, they need constant hydration to look and feel their best. To achieve the perfect kissable lips, reach for a moisturizing lip balm and apply frequently throughout the day. Ideally, you’ll want a balm that containsย Sheaย butter and protective ingredients to minimize damage from the elements. You can also use an anti-aging lip treatment to minimize damageย that’sย alreadyย occurredย (One to try: Rodan + Fieldsย ANTI-AGE Lip Renewing Serum, $53/60 capsules)
Don’t Skip the SPF
Your lips are particularlyย susceptibleย to sun damage, so it’s important you protect the delicate skin of your lips with a broad-spectrum SPF every day. Look for a lip balm with sunscreen built in. (One to try: Rodan + Fieldsย ESSENTIALS Lip Shield SPF 25, $16/2) It’s important to find products with SPF or you’ll find yourself looking up Dermatology NYC.
Exfoliate
Your lips need a little extra TLC, especially during the cold winter months. To help smooth and soften rough, chapped and dry lips, use a gentle lip scrub nightly to remove dead skin and leave your lips feeling incredibly soft. After exfoliating, apply a thick coat of balm to lock in moisture. You’ll wake up with soft, supple and oh-so-kissable lips! (One to try: Rodan + Fieldsย ENHANCEMENTS Lip Micro-Dermabrasion, $16)
What are your tips for getting kissable lips this Valentine’s Day?