Kiss Well This Valentine's Day

We have become aware of the affects personal care products can have on our personal health; it’s true that we put on our skin can be absorbed, ingested, and inhaled into our bodies. But with all the smooches and hugs of Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s time to think beyond “personal” care and our “personal” health. The products we use affect those we come in contact with as well. And visa versa.

Starting with our kisser, it’s essential that our lips look their very best when Cupid comes flying by. In most places the air is still dry during February, so to avoid cracked lips regularly apply a moisturizing lip balm. Though, avoid lip balms made with mineral oil as they offer only temporary relief. Mineral Oil, a petroleum byproduct, creates an impermeable barrier that traps your body’s current moisture in, but does not allow for additional moisture to penetrate skin to add relief. This is the reason why you find yourself constantly applying certain lip balm products. Instead, pick lip balms like our Lip Yummies that have coconut oil to keep your lips moisturized without constant reapplication.

Lead is another concern when it comes to our lips. In 2007, the Campaign For Safe Cosmetics published the study A Poison Kiss: The Problem of Lead in Lipstick, which first alerted consumers to the all too common problem of lead in lipstick. Since then the FDA has conducted their own study of lipstick and not only confirmed the Campaign’s findings, but reported higher levels of lead in lipsticks. The dangers of lead exposure can vary from development problems in children to cancer in adults, so keep this in mind when you’re coloring your lips; what you use not only affects your personal health but that of everyone you smooch, too. Avoid lipsticks made with artificial coloring, like Yellow No. 5 and Red No. 3, as these are the ingredients that are potentially contaminated with lead. Instead, use lip products that are naturally colored with micas like our Lip Skinnies or B Glossy Lip Gloss.

Treat you and your Valentine to healthy lips that look good, too. While our lips are under the spotlight on February 14^th, it’s important that we keep them healthy and happy year round, too.