Why should we exfoliate our lips?

In the face of external aggressions such as the sun, wind or pollution, lips can become dry and chapped. Indeed, the skin in this area is very thin, about 5 times more so than the rest of the face, and harbours only a tiny number of sebaceous glands. These produce the sebum, a substance that forms part of the hydrolipidic film present on the surface of the epidermis and helps to protect the skin from dehydration and several external factors. Moreover, with age, there is a decrease in sebum synthesis by the sebaceous glands, which further increases the fragility of the lips. It is also important to note that the sweat glands, responsible for sweat production, are completely absent from the lips. Sweat is an important constituent of the hydrolipidic film. These various elements make the lips prone to flaking, as well as the appearance of cracks.

Furthermore, the synthesis of collagen and elastin by fibroblasts gradually decreases after the age of 25. These fibrous proteins are typically found in the dermis and contribute to maintaining the structure of the skin. However, a decrease in their production leads to a loss of skin suppleness and elasticity. As a result, the lip contour becomes more prone to the appearance of fine lines and dehydration wrinkles. There is also a slowdown in cell renewal over time, which tends to thin the lips. It takes approximately 28 days to regenerate the various layers of facial skin (epidermis, dermis, hypodermis), but this process is slower for the lips, which are thinner.

To prevent lip dryness and the build-up of dead skin or patches, it is beneficial to use a scrub or a lip peel. Indeed, the sensitivity and significant fragility of this facial area make it particularly prone to damage, and it is necessary to take care of it. Thanks to its exfoliating action, the scrub removes impurities and dead skin on the lips, which helps to re-densify them. Besides its purifying action, this treatment also has regenerative virtues and promotes cellular renewal, a mechanism that is quite slow in the lips.

Furthermore, to provide them with this rosy hue that is so characteristic, peeling stimulates blood circulation. Regular exfoliation also helps to keep the lips plump and healthy. Often rich in fruit acids, exfoliants help to diminish the small lines on the lips that form with age. Indeed, these ingredients have a stimulating effect on the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which helps to prevent the appearance of these wrinkles.

Furthermore, using a scrub allows you to have a good base for your makeup. The purpose of the scrub is indeed to exfoliate the delicate skin and allows the lipstick to be applied on a smooth and soft surface. This treatment also allows to even out the surface of the lips and thus achieve a more uniform result. The adherence of tinted products as well as the absorption of active ingredients present in moisturising balms is facilitated after exfoliation. The peeling thus allows to maximise the benefits of lip products applied subsequently.

At Typology, we offer a lip peel, allowing for a gentle and thorough exfoliation. This weekly treatment is enriched with mandelic acid and pomegranate enzyme to remove dead cells from the lip surface, making them supple and soft. Mandelic acid is a chemical exfoliant belonging to the family of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) capable of stimulating the renewal of the lip surface. The pomegranate enzyme, on the other hand, provides a micro-exfoliation that complements that of the mandelic acid. Before applying the peel, ensure that the surface of your lips is dry and free of any traces of lipstick or gloss.

After this treatment, remember to hydrate and nourish your lips. To do this, we suggest applying our repairing lip mask, combining the lipid-replenishing action of ceramides with the hydrating effect of hyaluronic acid. By forming a protective film on the lips, it limits water evaporation and rehydrates and repairs damaged lips. Don't hesitate to complete this routine with the application of a lip balm. The lip balm nourishing with 9 ingredients from Typology is suitable for all skin types. Enriched with shea butter, this nourishing treatment with a minimalist formula helps to reduce lip dryness and prevent chapping.