Maintaining healthy skin during the summer requires careful attention to hydration, especially when temperatures rise and humidity drops. While much emphasis is placed on sunscreen and facial care, lip care often gets overlooked. Lips are delicate and prone to dryness, cracking, and sun damage. Including the right lip balm in your summer skincare routine is not just beneficial it’s essential.
This guide explains how lip balm fits into your summer skincare routine and provides hydration tips tailored for hot weather.
Why Lip Care Matters in Summer
Increased Sun Exposure
Summer brings more time outdoors, which also means prolonged sun exposure. The skin on the lips is thinner than the rest of your face and contains less melanin, making it more susceptible to UV damage. Without protection, lips can burn easily, leading to dryness, peeling, and discomfort.
Dehydration and Heat
High temperatures increase the rate at which your body loses moisture. Even with a consistent intake of water, the heat and dry air can pull moisture from your skin and lips, causing them to become dry and chapped. Lips lack oil glands, so they can’t produce their own moisture, making them especially vulnerable.
Air Conditioning
Spending time in air-conditioned environments can also contribute to dry lips. Indoor cooling systems remove humidity from the air, creating dry conditions that sap moisture from the skin, especially delicate areas like the lips.
Choosing the Right Lip Balm for Summer
Look for SPF Protection
When selecting a lip balm, opt for one with SPF. This provides a layer of defense against the sun’s UV rays. A broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher is recommended for daily use. Products that combine sun protection with moisturizing ingredients offer dual benefits for summer use.
Avoid Potential Irritants
Some ingredients, such as menthol, camphor, and phenol, may feel cooling but can irritate or dry out lips over time. In hot weather, it’s better to use balms with soothing and hydrating ingredients that support long-term lip health.
Hydrating Ingredients to Consider
A good summer lip balm should include:
- Shea butter or cocoa butter – for rich, lasting moisture
- Beeswax – to create a protective barrier
- Hyaluronic acid or glycerin – to draw in and retain moisture
- Natural oils like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil – to nourish and soften
How to Incorporate Lip Balm into Your Summer Skincare Routine
Step 1: Start Fresh in the Morning
After your morning cleansing and facial skincare steps, apply a moisturizing lip balm with SPF before heading outdoors. This should be a regular part of your skincare routine, especially on hot or sunny days.
Step 2: Reapply Throughout the Day
Sweating, eating, and drinking can wear away the protective layer of lip balm. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, especially after meals or if you’re spending time in the sun.
Step 3: Evening Care for Recovery
Use a thicker, more nourishing lip balm in the evening before bed. Overnight products often contain ingredients that help repair and restore moisture. Applying a rich lip balm at night helps counter the drying effects of heat and air conditioning.
Lip Balm and the Broader Skincare Routine
Coordinated Care
Lips should be cared for alongside the rest of your face. As part of your skincare routine, treat lip care as an essential step—just like cleansing, moisturizing, or applying sunscreen.
Complementary Products
Choose facial moisturizers and sunscreens that support hydration without interfering with your lip balm. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products are ideal, especially in the heat when sweat and oil production can increase.
Consistency Over Time
Just as you wouldn’t skip sunscreen on a sunny day, don’t forget your lips. Using lip balm consistently throughout the season prevents problems before they start and helps maintain healthy, comfortable lips.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Occasional dryness is normal, but if your lips are consistently cracked, bleeding, or showing signs of infection, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. Persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue, such as an allergic reaction or nutritional deficiency.
Final Thoughts
Integrating a lip balm into your summer routine is not just a cosmetic habit—it’s a necessary part of maintaining skin health. Lips are one of the most exposed and sensitive areas of your face. During hot days, they require targeted care to prevent dryness, irritation, and long-term damage.
By choosing the right lip balm, applying it regularly, and supporting overall hydration through your skincare routine, you can ensure your lips remain healthy and comfortable throughout the summer.