Brilliant as a gloss but formulated to hydrate, lip oil promises sweet and luscious lips.
“”When they do their job, the lip oils promote shine and hydration, they can even plump the lips “explains at first Dr. Rebecca Small, clinical professor at the University of California in San Francisco, interviewed by CNBC.
However, the expert warns against the ingredients of these products, which make all the difference. “”Patients sometimes report increased pigmentation on their lips following the use of these products“She adds.
When lip oils promote hyperpigmentation
Indeed, on Tiktok, a lip oil has become viral after videos “before/after”. Several users claim to have developed intense hyperpigmentation by integrating it into their beauty routine.
How to explain it? Simply because the lip skin is particularly fragile.
“”It does not have the same type of UV defense as the rest of our skin, so it is more prone to cancers and hyperpigmentation“Recalls Dr. Small.
According to her, the risk increases when the products do not contain a solar filter. “”If you use a product which, for example, has no UV protection, you will amplify exposure to UV with a lip oil. So, if the product does not contain SPF, you will be more likely to have hyperpigmentation of your lips “.
Some repulsive assets can also irritate the skin, promoting its darkening.
Finally, another frequent risk reported by the expert: dermatitis linked to perfumes. “”Dermatitis linked to an irritant or an allergy makes your lips red, chapped and uncomfortable “details the expert.
It recommends immediately stopping any product that causes unusual symptoms such as painful, swollen, red, cracked or bleeding lips, and consulting a healthcare professional.
What ingredients to favor (and which one to avoid)?
“”My advice is to read the composition of the oil, rather than stop only on the name of the brand “advocates Dr. Small. Its ideal product?
“I would say that the safest choice for a lip oil that hydrates and really nourishes your lips will be the one with a broad spectrum SPF, to protect you when you are outside.”
It also recommends products containing linoleic acids (onagree oil, grapesee oil), squalnes, glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
On the contrary, the products with perfumes (peppermint, cinnamon, citrus, lavender …), containing oleic acids, such as argan oil or olive oil, are for their part to banish.
“”I think lip oil can be fantastic if they contain the right ingredients “concludes Dr. Small.
“Avoid scented oils. And don’t forget that you can also opt for a more traditional lip balm. The lip balms are thicker, because they are based on wax and are therefore more protective”.