We’ve all got a gazillion lip balms stocked in almost every bag, purse and cabinet in the house. Is it enough though? We chime in on some lip love.

Dry, chapped lips that look as parched as the Sahara desert… we’ve all been there. Chugging fluids is one quick fix but to get soft, plump lips for days, it’s all about lip care. In fact, your lips are skin too, so it shouldn’t be shunned during your skincare routine. Especially when you’re slathering it with lipstick and gloss, or covering it up with your mask. We present to you four easy steps to a rad lip care routine – cleanse, exfoliate, protect and hydrate. Let’s get to it, shall we?

Lip care tip #1: Cleanse like there’s no tomorrow

Yes, we love our lip colours, but it’s crucial to remove every single bit of product with a makeup remover. Go in with a gentle facial cleanser or cleansing balm – preferably something non-stripping – to eradicate leftover product, saliva and even food particles (we know, gross stuff).

Lip care tip #2: Some exfoliation action won’t hurt anyone

Just like how body scrubs work hard to slough away dead skin cells and encourage new ones to grow, the skin on your lips works the same. But take note that this skin is thin and delicate so gentle exfoliants like sugar scrubs work best. Here are our faves…

Lip care tip #3: Protect your smackeroos against nasties

There’s no hiding: Your lips are susceptible to the effects of pollution, UV damage, and free radicals too. So it’s crucial to pick the best lip balm, oil or butter to protect that delicate layer of skin. Are these products going to be on your lips all day or are you simply using them as a layer of protection for your lipstick? Choose your preference.

Lip care tip #4: Don’t hesitate, just hydrate

We all know our skin goes into repair mode as we clock in our ZZZs. All-night hydrating and moisturising treatments with antioxidants and vitamin E make great accompaniments to healthy lips. Best you don’t sleep on it.