Why should you exfoliate your lips?

In the face of external aggressions such as the sun, wind, or pollution, lips can become dry and chapped. Indeed, the skin in this area is very thin, about 5 times thinner than the rest of the face, and harbors only a minuscule number of sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum, a substance that contributes to the composition of the hydrolipidic film present on the surface of the epidermis and helps protect the skin from dehydration and various external factors. Moreover, with age, there is a decrease in sebum synthesis by the sebaceous glands, which further increases the fragility of the lips. It is also important to note that sweat glands, responsible for sweat production, are completely absent from the lips. Sweat is a crucial component of the hydrolipidic film. These various factors make the lips prone to flaking, as well as the appearance of cracks.

Furthermore, the synthesis of collagen and elastin by fibroblasts gradually decreases after the age of 25. These fibrous proteins are typically found in the dermis and contribute to maintaining the structure of the skin. However, a decrease in their production leads to a loss of skin flexibility and elasticity. As a result, the lip contour becomes more prone to the appearance of fine lines and dehydration wrinkles. There is also a slowdown in cellular renewal over time, which tends to thin the lips. It takes about 28 days to regenerate the different layers of facial skin (epidermis, dermis, hypodermis), but this process is slower for the lips, which are thinner.

To prevent lip dryness and the buildup of dead skin or patches, it is beneficial to use a scrub or a lip peel. Indeed, the sensitivity and significant fragility of this facial area make it particularly prone to damage, and it is necessary to take care of it. Thanks to its exfoliating action, the scrub removes impurities and dead skin on the lips, which helps to re-densify them. Besides its purifying action, this treatment also has regenerative virtues and promotes cellular renewal, a process that is relatively slow in the lips.

Furthermore, to provide them with this rosy hue that is so characteristic, peeling stimulates blood circulation. Regular exfoliation also helps to keep the lips plump and healthy. Often rich in fruit acids, exfoliants contribute to diminishing the small lines on the lips that form with age. Indeed, these ingredients have a stimulating effect on the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which helps to prevent the appearance of these wrinkles.

Furthermore, using a scrub allows you to have a good base for your makeup. The purpose of the scrub is indeed to exfoliate the delicate skin and allows for the application of lipstick on a smooth and soft surface. This treatment also helps to even out the surface of the lips, thus achieving a more uniform result. The adherence of tinted products as well as the absorption of active ingredients present in moisturizing balms is facilitated after exfoliation. The peeling thus allows to maximize the benefits of lip products applied subsequently.