How To Care For Lips As They Age In 3 Science-Backed Steps

The truth is that you can try all the new, fancy treatments in the world, but if you’re not protecting your skin on a day-to-day basis, it really doesn’t mean much. 

While keeping the skin hydrated and nourished is one vital piece of this (ahem, I’ll refer you to section one), it’s not the only thing to keep in mind. Sun protection is an often forgotten step for the lip area. Unprotected UV rays are a major factor in collagen loss—accounting for up to 80% of visible aging of the face1. Always protect the lips with SPF when spending time outdoors. 

Inflammation and oxidative stress are other contributing factors that lead to premature aging, as they can deplete collagen, humectants, and lipids. These are trickier to deal with, as many things can inflame your lips—but in general, it’s good practice to use antioxidant-rich ingredients and calming topicals. You should also be gentle with the area and avoid overly harsh ingredients. The lips are delicate with thin skin, and when you use too potent ingredients, it can cause irritation.