Tinted Lip Balm vs. Lipstick – Which one should I choose?

Lipstick is a makeup product intended to give a glamorous effect to the lips by coloring them. However, depending on the texture, lipstick has the disadvantage of drying out the skin of the lips, especially those with a matte finish. It is therefore advisable to apply a moisturizing lip balm as a makeup base to protect them from drying out and to which the lipstick will cling better.

Moreover, because of its direct contact with the mouth, lipstick can potentially present long-term health risks depending on its composition. A study revealed that women ingest between 20 and 50 mg of lip products (gloss, lipstick, lip balm) per day. Lipstick contains above all natural or synthetic pigments that give it its color, but it is also generally composed of:

• Chemical preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, BHA or BHT to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms or oxidation of the product. However, these are suspected to be endocrine disruptors;

• Petrochemical products based on hydrocarbons such as kerosene oil (INCI name: Paraffinum Liquidum), polybutene, kerosene wax (INCI name: Microcrystalline Wax) or ozokerite to give shine and consistency to lipstick. However, these components have been shown to be carcinogenic. They can also have negative effects on fertility and the hormonal system, if ingested;

• Heavy metals such as lead, manganese, chromium, or aluminum that can cause several potential health problems (infertility, nervous system disorders, liver tumors, etc.).

The skin of your lips is thin, delicate, sensitive, without sebaceous or sweat glands, and subjected to cold, wind, and sun on a daily basis, which can cause it to dry out and leave your lips chapped, tingly, or even torn. Using a lip balm can help to protect against these external irritants, whatever the weather, and keep them plumped, smooth, and soft. It helps to repair, hydrate, soften and protect dry and fragile lips.

Plus, if you choose a tinted lip balm, you won’t need lipstick, because it acts as a hybrid with the colour of a regular lipstick but the care and protection of a lip balm. At Typology, we’ve developed a range of tinted lip balms in five flattering colours, suitable for every occasion and skin tone: dusty pink, powder pink, ruby red, coral orange, and plum purple.

Our makeup-lip care hybrids are all made without mineral oils, silicones, or products based on hydrocarbons or parabens, and are packed with natural ingredients to hydrate and nourish your lips. These 2-in-1 lip care products are really effective at stopping your lips from drying out, while keeping them soft, supple and protected and adding a hint of glamour.