Here’s how the least expensive product in your beauty bag could actually be the biggest lifesaver, going way beyond just healing chapped lips.
Moisturize parched skin
Most lip balms have ingredients such as petroleum jelly, beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut oil, shea butter or lanolin designed to lock in moisture and form a protective barrier, which makes them a great pinch-hitter for moisturizer. Smear lip balm on body parts that get especially rough in the winter, like elbows, knees, heels, and knuckles. For this hack as well, choose a basic balm without tints, shimmer, sparkles or fragrances.
Treat cuticles
Overdue for a manicure? Try massaging a bit of lip balm onto dry cuticles to soften them and prevent snags until your next nail appointment.
Tame flyaways
On days when your hair is frizzy, has flyaways, or if stray strands are sticking out of your updo, rub lip balm between your fingers and gently brush back the wayward hairs to create a smoother look. No need for hairspray.
Heal an irritated nose
Winter is here, and that means colds, dry indoor air, and tons of tissues. All that nose-blowing will inevitably leave the skin in and around your nose red, dry, and sore. Luckily, lip balm works just like petroleum jelly: Apply it inside and outside your nasal passages to soothe irritation. Just make sure the balm doesn’t contain menthol or camphor, ingredients that give some balms a cool tingling sensation, because it could sting and might actually be drying. These natural cold remedies will get you feeling better faster.
Keep makeup in place
Next time you’re applying eyeshadow, try using a bit of lip balm as a base. The substance will act as a primer, so your shadow will go on smoother and stay on longer.
Go for the glow
Get glowing, dewey skin by dabbing lip balm on your cheek bones as a highlighter. Try Eos Shimmer Lip Balm in Pearl, with the perfect amount of subtle shimmer.
Groom eyebrows
Having trouble keeping your brows in place? Lip balm does the trick. Lightly apply balm to your brows, then use a brow brush or a clean spoolie to shape them.
Prevent blisters
Don’t hesitate to wear your favorite (but not-so-comfortable) high heels tonight. You won’t get painful blisters if you rub lip balm onto the heels and sides of your feet before putting the shoes on. The slick texture will provide a barrier between your skin and the shoes, preventing painful rubbing and chafing.
