Ever wondered about the difference between lip balms and masks and which might be the best fit for your needs? We decided to do the hard work for you and reveal the secrets behind these two essential lip care items, their distinctive advantages, and how to select the ideal one to ensure your lips are irresistible! 

What is lip balm? 

Lip balms — also known as lip salves or even chapstick — have been used for centuries to relieve dry, chapped lips. Early lip balms revolved around natural ingredients like beeswax, but they have evolved over the years into an essential beauty product found in almost every home and, of course, in almost every handbag.

These useful lip care products still often contain beeswax, as well as moisturising and hydrating natural ingredients like sugar, grapeseed oil, and cranberry seed oil. They’re often flavoured or tinted for additional appeal — and there’s sure to be a lip balm that will work for you! 

Benefits of lip balm

Lip balms are the real heroes of everyday lip care, offering a wealth of benefits. One of the key advantages is the daily protection they provide. They hydrate your lips throughout the day, warding off dryness and chapping. The moisturising effect ensures your lips stay plump, healthy, and comfortable, regardless of weather or environmental conditions. They’re ideal for extreme cold and wind and for keeping your lips hydrated during the warmer weather, making them an every-season hero.

Beyond hydration, lip balms offer convenience and simplicity. They are compact and easy to carry, fitting effortlessly into your pocket or bag. This allows for reapplication whenever necessary, ensuring your lips never feel dry. Using lip masks requires more planning, as you’ll often have to leave them on to work for a while.

Lip balm works well under lipstick, acting as a moisturising base that makes your lipstick apply smoother and last longer. So, you’ll have hydrated, healthy lips, and your lipstick will look even better — what’s not to love?

And we can’t forget the sheer variety of choices available regarding lip balms. They come in many flavours and tints, catering to all preferences. Whether you enjoy a fruity mango flavour or a subtle cocoa tint that gives your lips a hint of colour, there’s a lip balm out there for you. 

What is a lip mask?

Lip masks are much newer to the beauty scene than lip balms and have roots in the Asian beauty market, particularly in South Korea. These more intensive treatments have become popular globally for their impressive lip-enhancing results.

They often contain a higher concentration of hydrating and nourishing ingredients than lip balms, featuring ingredients like shea butter, berry wax, and various vitamins. Some also use hyaluronic acid to leave lips looking plumper and more vibrant.

What are the benefits of a lip mask?

Lip masks provide an intensive treatment that goes beyond the typical hydration offered by lip balms. They are designed to hydrate and plump your lips significantly, often working their magic overnight. These treatments target specific lip concerns, such as fine lines and dullness, offering transformative results. So, using a lip mask can be a luxurious, pampering experience.

These masks often boast high-quality, nourishing ingredients. Their formulas are packed with potent nutrients that deliver tangible results. Many brands offer a range of natural organic options, allowing you to choose a product that aligns with your lifestyle and skincare philosophy, which is becoming increasingly important for many of us.

Comparing lip balms and lip masks: similarities & differences

Lip balms and lip masks are both crucial for maintaining healthy lips and can be used together. However, they do have distinct differences, starting with the frequency of usage. Lip balms are designed for regular, daily use, offering a quick solution for everyday lip hydration. Lip masks, in contrast, are typically used a bit less frequently. They might be part of a weekly self-care ritual or utilized now and again when your lips need a little extra TLC.

The primary function of these lip care products also differs. Lip balms are a protective barrier, maintaining hydration throughout the day and shielding your lips from environmental aggressors that lead to dryness and chapping. Lip masks, however, delve deeper into keeping your pout protected. They’re more treatment-focused, addressing specific lip concerns such as dryness, dullness, and the appearance of fine lines with their intensive hydration and nutrient-rich formulas.

Application time is another significant difference between the two. Lip balms offer a quick, on-the-go solution, easily applied and reapplied as needed throughout the day — a bit too often for some of us who might even develop an addiction. Treating yourself to a lip mask requires a more substantial time investment. You’ll typically leave this product on your lips for about 10-20 minutes or, in some cases, overnight, allowing the nourishing ingredients to penetrate your skin thoroughly.

The texture also varies between these two products. Lip balms generally have a smooth, often waxy, texture that glides on effortlessly. Lip masks, on the other hand, might have a thicker, gel-like consistency designed to adhere to your lips during the treatment duration. So, the way you’ll apply them is a little different.

Now that you know the difference between the two types of lip care products, you can try out what you think works best for you! Happy hydrating!

You’ll also like this:

Beat the Winter Weight Gain with These Tips

Elevate Your Skincare Routine with Fayshell’s Membership-Based Clinic in Bondi

Protect and Replenish Your Face Skin: Best Non-Comedogenic and Hydrating Care