What is the action of the lip mask?

The lips represent a particularly delicate area of the face. Indeed, the skin of the lips is approximately 5 times thinner than on the rest of the body and lacks sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are responsible for the production of sebum, a substance that contributes to the composition of the hydrolipidic film, and helps to protect the skin from dehydration and various external aggressions. Furthermore, the horny layer of the lips is also very limited. This is the outermost part of the skin. The horny layer constitutes the first skin barrier. It is predominantly composed of dead cells, as well as lipids ensuring intercellular cohesion and reinforcing the impermeability of the horny layer.

Lips are thus highly prone to dehydration and chapping. Indeed, they are sensitive to the slightest external aggression, such as wind, rain or freezing temperatures, and can easily become damaged, even bleed. To protect them, the use of a lip mask is possible. The lip mask is a treatment primarily designed to provide complete hydration to the lips. Its formula is generally rich and thick, more so than that of lip balms. Some masks also help soothe, plump and soften the lips. Their use is particularly recommended for dry or chapped lips, but it is also advised to apply a lip mask as a preventive measure. When the lips are put to the test, especially in winter, the daily use of a lip mask is recommended.

Lip masks are typically formulated with humectant ingredients, capable of retaining moisture and limiting water loss. For instance, we can mention hyaluronic acid, a macromolecule capable of capturing up to 1,000 times its weight in water, or aloe vera whose composition rich in hygroscopic amino acids allows it to retain moisture. Providing a plumping effect, the lip mask firms and brings softness to the lips.

Some lip masks are enriched with lipid-replenishing active ingredients, such as ceramides. These lipids integrate into the horny layer of the epidermis where they act as an intercellular cement, strengthening the skin barrier and limiting dehydration. One might also consider mango butter, whose texture allows it to melt on the lips to form a protective barrier to repair chapped lips and prevent cracks. In a way, by forming a protective layer on the lips, this type of active ingredient creates a hydrolipidic film on their surface.

Lip masks often contain tightening agents, such as peptides or bakuchiol, capable of stimulating the production of collagen and elastin by fibroblasts. These molecules are constituents of the dermis and contribute to the maintenance of its structure, as well as its suppleness and elasticity. Over time, the synthesis of collagen and elastin tends to decrease, which leads to a skin sagging. Regular application of a lip mask can help limit this phenomenon.

It is also possible to find antioxidants, such as vitamin C, in the composition of certain lip masks. Antioxidants combat free radicals, reactive species of oxygen, by donating an electron, which helps to stabilise them. The free radicals are harmful to the skin and can cause damage to DNA, cells, and certain proteins. This accelerates cellular ageing and exacerbates signs of skin sagging.

In order to care for dry and painful lips, lip masks are formulated with active ingredients that possess soothing properties, such as aloe vera gel or hibiscus vegetable oil. These reduce feelings of tightness and promote healing.

The repairing lip mask from Typology is the ally of lips in need of hydration, whether they are dry or chapped. This treatment combines the lipid-replenishing action of the ceramides (INCI name: Ceramides NG) with the hydrating action ofhyaluronic acid (INCI name: Sodium Hyaluronate). By forming a protective film that limits water evaporation, the lip mask rehydrates and repairs damaged lips. It is also enriched with mango butter (INCI name: Mangifera Indica Seed Butter), which allows it to melt on the lips and leave a sensation of softness.

You can use the lip mask in two different ways:

• After applying a thick layer to your lips, leave it on for approximately 15 minutes. Then remove the excess using a cotton pad.

• After applying a generous layer of lip mask, leave it on overnight to fully benefit from its properties. In the morning, remove any excess with a cotton pad.

To optimise the effectiveness of this treatment, also consider performing a lip peel beforehand. This will help to remove dead cells, thus facilitating the penetration of the mask's active ingredients. Once the mask is removed, we recommend applying a layer of our hydrating balm to enhance the hydration of your lips.