5 Steps to smooth, kissable lips

07 November 2019 | Helen Clemson

When it comes to our skincare routines, our lips often get overlooked. With a little extra effort, you can achieve a perfect pout – and extend your lipstick’s longevity.

/medias/5-steps-to-a-smooth-plump-pout-An-at-home-spa-day-for-your-lips-520.jpeg?context=bWFzdGVyfEFydGljbGVJbWFnZXN8NDk2OTZ8aW1hZ2UvanBlZ3xBcnRpY2xlSW1hZ2VzL2gyYi9oYWQvOTYwODUxNDQwNDM4Mi5qcGd8NzExMGUwMTU4ZDI3MzZkMDI2OTA4YTdjZGNiNTc3YmJmOWIyZjZjYjRlN2VhYmZmZDhmNTZjNjdiM2ZkY2JiYQ

Want a gorgeous pout and lips that are in such good nick that your lipstick always stays in place? Well, then there are a few steps to follow as part of your weekly skincare routine. “Cleanse, exfoliate, mask, serum and moisturise,” says Sonette Donker of Skin iD Skin Studio in Johannesburg – oh, and she’s referring to your mouth by the way!

The result? “A healthier, smoother finish as all the dead skin cells will be removed and the skin on the lips will be nourished,” says Sonette. What’s more, doing this will improve the longevity of your lipstick. By getting rid of the dead skin cells, you’ll ensure that your lippie sits on healthier, moisturised skin for longer. If you’re not a lipstick queen and prefer light textures like balms and sheer oils, choose one that contains beeswax or shea butter. Sonette’s advice is to stay away from any products that contain mineral oil as this type of ingredient dries out your pout in the long term. “Mineral oil and lanolin may also cause the formation of blackheads on the lip line,” she cautions. Follow these five steps for proper pout care.

Cleanse

Wipe your lips clean with damp cotton wool or use makeup remover to remove stubborn traces of lipstick.

Exfoliate

Be careful not to rub too hard or to use an abrasive product containing ingredients that irritates skin. If it starts to burn, stop. If you’re going the DIY route, lightly buff a gentle granular product like sugar mixed with an emollient like honey over your lips.

Mask

Slather on a lip mask to get another step closer to a smooth, soft pout. Choose one that is a deep-conditioning treatment (some you can even leave on overnight).

Serum

A serum penetrates deeper than a lip balm might. There are different types for different conditions, so look for one that suits your needs, be it for hydration, fuller-looking lips or the reduction of fine lines.