Foto: BB.LV
If, even with regular use of a moisturizing and nourishing balm, your lips continue to dry out, crack, and peel, the reason may not lie in the quality of the cosmetics but in the individual reaction of the body. It is important to pay attention to possible allergens contained in the balm's composition. Let's consider the main risk factors. Vitamin E Many lip balms contain vitamin E, which is considered an excellent moisturizer. However, studies show that 33% of people may develop contact dermatitis when using it. It is important to note that it is not the vitamin itself that is an allergen, but its synthetic form (dl-alpha-tocopherol). Additionally, vitamin E in oil form, obtained from sources like soybean oil, can also cause allergic reactions. If you suspect that your lips react to vitamin E, choose products where it appears at the end of the ingredient list. Lanolins Lanolins is a wax of animal origin obtained from sheep wool. It is often used in lip balms due to its emollient properties. However, for sensitive lips that have a thinner protective layer, lanolins can cause allergic reactions. If you are curious about how common lanolin allergy is, you may be surprised to learn how many people experience it. Castor Oil Castor oil, derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant, is also commonly found in lip cosmetics. It is composed of 90% ricinoleic acid, which can cause allergies in 50% of users. Besides castor oil, other oils such as coconut, almond, and olive oil can also be potential allergens. Fragrance Additives Fragrance additives can be allergens. Although perfumes are rarely added to lip balms, aromatic components can mask unpleasant odors from other ingredients. The most allergenic substances include geraniol, citronellol, cinnamon aldehyde, and peppermint. These components can be both synthetic and natural, so even a "100% natural" balm does not guarantee the absence of allergens. It is also worth noting menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor. Beeswax Beeswax can cause allergic reactions, especially if it contains propolis — a byproduct of beekeeping. Propolis can cause itching, peeling, and cracking of the lips. If you have an allergy to honey, you should be particularly cautious with products containing beeswax. Although this may not sound very optimistic, sometimes the only way to identify the allergen is through the process of elimination: do not use cosmetics for a week, and then gradually reintroduce familiar lip care products — one of them will definitely provoke a reaction. SPF Factor Sun protection filters can be chemical, and in this case, they can cause chronic chapping of the lips. Studies show that cosmetics with chemical sun filters can lead to allergic reactions. To avoid problems, steer clear of ingredients such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, octisalate, and octylcrylene. It is better to choose balms with mineral filters, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
