Can We Apply Coconut Oil on Lips? The Ultimate Guide to Your Pout’s Best Friend

Picture this: It’s the dead of winter, or perhaps a scorching summer, and your lips feel like sandpaper, cracked and peeling, a constant source of discomfort. You’ve tried a dizzying array of lip balms, waxes, and salves, but nothing seems to truly deliver that lasting relief. You find yourself rummaging through your pantry, a glimmer of hope sparking as you spot that familiar jar of coconut oil, sitting there, seemingly innocent. A thought pops into your head: “Can I just use this on my lips? Is it really safe? Will it even work?”

Well, to quickly and precisely answer that burning question: Yes, absolutely! You can apply coconut oil on your lips, and it’s actually a fantastic, all-natural option for keeping them soft, hydrated, and happy. In fact, for many folks, it’s become a go-to remedy, a secret weapon against the dreaded dry, chapped pucker. Let’s dive deep into why this tropical treasure is such a game-changer for your lip care routine and how you can best incorporate it.

The Science Behind the Shine: Why Coconut Oil Works Wonders for Lips

It’s not just an old wives’ tale; there’s genuine science backing up coconut oil’s efficacy as a lip conditioner. This isn’t just about slathering on something oily; it’s about giving your delicate lip skin exactly what it craves. Understanding the composition of coconut oil helps us appreciate its magic.

Fatty Acid Profile: The Building Blocks of Hydration

Coconut oil is predominantly made up of saturated fats, but don’t let that term scare you in this context. These aren’t the dietary fats you might be trying to avoid; these are the good guys for your skin. Its primary component, accounting for about 50% of its fatty acid content, is lauric acid. But it doesn’t stop there; you’ll also find a good amount of capric acid and myristic acid. These medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are exceptionally beneficial:

• Lauric Acid: Known for its powerful antimicrobial properties. This means it can help combat bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses, which can be particularly useful if your chapped lips have developed tiny cracks susceptible to infection. It also has a unique affinity for skin proteins, allowing it to penetrate effectively.
• Capric Acid & Myristic Acid: These contribute to the oil’s emollient (softening) and occlusive (barrier-forming) properties, which are crucial for locking in moisture.

Moisturizing Power: Emollient and Occlusive Actions

When you apply coconut oil to your lips, it works on two main fronts to keep them moisturized:

1. Emollient: The fatty acids in coconut oil help to smooth and fill the tiny gaps between skin cells, making the lip surface feel softer and more supple. This provides immediate relief from dryness and flakiness. Think of it as patching up the uneven surface of your lips.
2. Occlusive: Once applied, coconut oil forms a thin, protective layer on the surface of your lips. This barrier helps to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is just a fancy way of saying it stops moisture from evaporating from your lips into the air. This protective shield is essential, especially in dry, windy, or cold conditions.

Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Beyond just moisture, coconut oil offers therapeutic advantages. The lauric acid, as mentioned, is a potent antimicrobial agent. If your lips are severely chapped, they might develop tiny fissures, making them vulnerable to bacterial or fungal growth. Coconut oil can provide a gentle, natural line of defense against these unwelcome guests. Furthermore, some studies suggest that coconut oil possesses mild anti-inflammatory properties, which could help soothe irritation and redness associated with severely chapped lips. It’s a bit like giving your irritated lips a calming hug.

Antioxidant Content

While not as packed with antioxidants as some other oils, virgin coconut oil does contain some vitamin E and other beneficial compounds that can help protect your lips from free radical damage caused by environmental aggressors like pollution. This adds another layer of defense for your delicate lip skin.

Benefits of Using Coconut Oil on Your Lips

So, we know the science, but what does that translate to in terms of real-world benefits for your pout? A whole lot, actually!

Deep Hydration & Softening

The immediate and most noticeable benefit is its exceptional ability to hydrate. Because it’s both an emollient and an occlusive, coconut oil doesn’t just sit on the surface; it helps to soften the existing dry skin cells and then seals in that newfound moisture. This leads to lips that feel genuinely soft, smooth, and much more comfortable.

Protection Against Environmental Stressors

Our lips are constantly exposed to the elements – sun, wind, cold, and dry air. Unlike the rest of our skin, lips lack sebaceous glands, meaning they can’t produce their own natural oils to keep themselves moisturized. The protective barrier formed by coconut oil acts as a shield, helping to fend off these drying and damaging environmental factors. It’s like putting a little raincoat on your lips.

Healing Chapped and Cracked Lips

For those times when your lips are beyond just dry and have started to crack or even bleed, coconut oil can be a true savior. Its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties work together to soothe the irritation, reduce redness, and promote the healing process. The antimicrobial action can also prevent minor infections from worsening the situation.

Natural Shine & Plumpness

Forget sticky glosses with questionable ingredients. A thin layer of coconut oil gives your lips a healthy, natural sheen that looks effortlessly beautiful. When your lips are well-hydrated, they also tend to appear a little plumper and fuller, enhancing your natural beauty without any artificial additives.

Gentle Exfoliation (When Paired)

While coconut oil itself isn’t an exfoliant, it can be an excellent base for a gentle DIY lip scrub. Mixed with a tiny bit of sugar, it helps to loosen and slough off dead skin cells, revealing softer, smoother skin underneath. The oil then nourishes the freshly exfoliated lips.

Potential for Mild Sun Protection (But Don’t Rely on It!)

Some studies have suggested that coconut oil offers a very mild level of natural sun protection, perhaps around an SPF of 4-5. While this is certainly better than nothing, it is absolutely crucial to understand that it is not a substitute for a dedicated SPF lip balm, especially if you’re going to be out in the sun for an extended period. Think of it as a tiny bonus, not a primary defense.

How to Choose the Right Coconut Oil for Your Lips

Not all coconut oil is created equal, especially when you’re thinking about applying it to your delicate lips. Making the right choice ensures you’re getting the most beneficial and purest product possible.

Virgin vs. Refined Coconut Oil

• Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO): This is the superstar for lip care. Virgin coconut oil is extracted from fresh coconut meat without the use of high heat or chemicals. This process preserves its natural antioxidants, vitamins, and a higher concentration of beneficial fatty acids. It also retains its distinct, pleasant coconut aroma and flavor. For your lips, virgin coconut oil is generally considered the best choice because it’s less processed and retains more of its natural goodness.
• Refined Coconut Oil (RCO): This type of coconut oil is typically made from dried coconut (copra) and undergoes a refining, bleaching, and deodorizing (RBD) process. This process often involves high heat and chemical solvents, which can strip away some of its beneficial compounds and natural scent. While still a good moisturizer, it won’t offer the same rich nutrient profile as virgin coconut oil. It’s often odorless and flavorless, which some might prefer, but for therapeutic benefits, stick with virgin.

Organic vs. Non-Organic

Opting for organic coconut oil means that the coconuts were grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. While the impact of these on the final oil product can be debated, choosing organic is often preferred by those looking to minimize their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and support sustainable farming practices. It’s a personal preference, but many feel it adds an extra layer of purity, especially when applying something to an area that might be ingested.

Cold-Pressed

This term often goes hand-in-hand with “virgin.” Cold-pressing refers to the extraction method where the oil is pressed from the coconut meat at low temperatures. This method helps to preserve the oil’s delicate nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants that might otherwise be degraded by heat. Look for labels that explicitly state “cold-pressed” for optimal quality.

Storage Considerations

Coconut oil is generally stable, but like any natural product, it has a shelf life. Store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. It will naturally solidify at temperatures below about 76°F (24°C) and turn liquid above that. This change in state doesn’t affect its quality or efficacy, but it’s something to be aware of for application. A small jar in your bathroom cabinet or nightstand is usually perfect.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Coconut Oil for Luscious Lips

Applying coconut oil to your lips is pretty straightforward, but a few tips can help you maximize its benefits and ensure a smooth, pleasant experience.

Preparation is Key

1. Cleanse Your Lips: Before applying any treatment, gently wipe your lips to remove any old product, food residue, or dirt. A damp cloth will do the trick. This ensures the coconut oil can directly contact your lip skin and work its magic.
2. Gentle Exfoliation (Optional but Recommended): If your lips are particularly flaky or rough, a very gentle exfoliation beforehand can make a huge difference. You can use a soft, damp toothbrush and lightly brush your lips in small circular motions, or try a homemade sugar scrub (a tiny bit of sugar mixed with a drop of coconut oil). This removes dead skin cells, allowing the fresh, new skin underneath to absorb the oil more effectively. Just don’t overdo it, especially if your lips are cracked or sensitive.

The Application Process

Because coconut oil melts at body temperature, a little goes a long way.

1. Scoop a Small Amount: If your coconut oil is solid, use a clean fingertip or a small, clean spatula to scoop out a pea-sized amount. If it’s liquid, a single drop is often enough. You really don’t need much.
2. Warm it Up (if Solid): If the oil is solid, gently rub it between your fingertips for a few seconds. It will quickly melt into a luxurious liquid.
3. Apply and Massage: Gently apply the melted oil directly to your lips. Use your fingertip to lightly massage it into your lip skin. This helps with absorption and also stimulates a little blood flow, giving your lips a healthy glow. Ensure you cover the entire lip area, including the corners.
4. Let it Absorb: Give it a minute or two to absorb. You’ll notice an immediate softening and a natural shine.

Frequency and Timing

• Daily Maintenance: For general hydration and protection, applying coconut oil 2-3 times a day is usually sufficient. Think morning, midday, and before bed.
• As Needed: If you’re experiencing particularly dry or chapped conditions (e.g., during cold weather, after spending time outdoors, or if you’re prone to licking your lips), feel free to apply it more frequently throughout the day whenever your lips start to feel dry or tight.
• Overnight Treatment: A thicker layer applied before bed can act as an intensive overnight mask. While you sleep, the oil has ample time to deeply moisturize and repair your lips, so you wake up with them feeling incredibly soft and rejuvenated. This is often where people see the most dramatic improvement.

Combining with Other Ingredients (Use with Caution)

While coconut oil is powerful on its own, you can sometimes enhance its effects:

• Honey: A tiny drop of raw honey mixed with coconut oil can add extra healing and antibacterial properties, perfect for very cracked lips.
• Sugar: As mentioned, a pinch of fine sugar with coconut oil makes an excellent, gentle lip scrub.
• Essential Oils (Use Extreme Caution): Some people like to add a *tiny* drop of lip-safe essential oils like peppermint (for a slight plumping sensation) or lavender (for soothing). However, this must be done with extreme caution. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially on sensitive lip skin. Always dilute them properly and do a patch test first. For general use, I’d suggest sticking to plain coconut oil or professionally formulated products.

Possible Downsides and Considerations

While coconut oil is generally safe and beneficial for most people, it’s essential to be aware of potential downsides and considerations. No single product works for everyone, and it’s always smart to be informed.

Allergic Reactions (Rare but Possible)

Though uncommon, some individuals can have an allergic reaction to coconut oil. Symptoms might include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash on or around the lips. If you experience any of these, discontinue use immediately. If you have a known allergy to coconuts or other tree nuts, it’s wise to be cautious and perhaps perform a small patch test on an inconspicuous area of your skin (like the inside of your wrist) before applying it directly to your lips.

Comedogenicity: Will it Clog Pores Around Your Lips?

Coconut oil has a comedogenic rating of 4 out of 5, which means it has a relatively high potential to clog pores when applied to facial skin. However, the skin on your lips is different; it has very few oil glands and is less prone to typical pore-clogging acne. Therefore, applying coconut oil directly to the lips is generally not a concern for causing breakouts *on the lips themselves*. The main area of concern would be the skin *around* your lips. If you’re highly prone to perioral dermatitis or breakouts around your mouth, you might want to be mindful of applying excessive amounts that could spread to the surrounding skin. For most people, a thin layer on the lips themselves won’t pose an issue.

Taste and Scent Preference

Virgin coconut oil has a distinct, tropical coconut scent and taste. While many find this pleasant, others might not be fans. If you prefer an entirely neutral lip product, you might find the natural aroma of virgin coconut oil a bit much. In such cases, refined coconut oil (which is often deodorized) could be an alternative, but remember it lacks some of the beneficial compounds of its virgin counterpart.

Melting Point and Storage Challenges

Coconut oil’s unique melting point can be both a blessing and a minor inconvenience. It’s solid below approximately 76°F (24°C) and liquid above it. This means that in warmer climates or during summer, a jar left on your bathroom counter might turn into a liquid puddle. While this doesn’t affect its efficacy, it can be a bit messy and harder to apply. If you prefer a solid balm consistency, you might need to keep it in a cooler spot or even the refrigerator. On the flip side, in colder temperatures, it can become quite hard, requiring you to warm it between your fingers before application.

Not a Substitute for SPF (Reiterating This Crucial Point)

As mentioned earlier, while coconut oil may offer a minuscule amount of natural sun protection (often cited as SPF 4-5), it is absolutely insufficient for protecting your lips from harmful UV rays. Sun exposure can lead to chapped lips, premature aging around the mouth, and even increase the risk of skin cancer. If you’re going to be outdoors, especially for extended periods, always use a dedicated lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher in conjunction with or instead of plain coconut oil.

Coconut Oil vs. Commercial Lip Balms: A Lip-Off!

In the vast landscape of lip care, where does coconut oil stand against the myriad of commercial lip balms? Let’s break it down.

My Take on the “Lip-Off”: For sheer purity, natural benefits, and cost-effectiveness, coconut oil is a clear winner for many. It offers a straightforward approach to lip care, relying on nature’s goodness rather than a cocktail of synthesized chemicals. However, commercial lip balms often excel in convenience (the stick form is undeniably handy) and specialized functions like high SPF protection or specific medicated treatments. It often comes down to personal preference and what your lips specifically need. Many folks, myself included, keep both on hand: coconut oil for daily at-home hydration and an SPF balm for outdoor adventures.

Beyond Just Moisture: Creative Uses for Coconut Oil on Your Pout

Coconut oil isn’t just a one-trick pony for basic moisture. Its versatility allows for some fun and effective ways to enhance your lip care routine.

DIY Lip Scrub

As touched upon, combining coconut oil with a fine sugar creates a wonderful, all-natural lip scrub. This is especially helpful when your lips are flaky and need a gentle buff. The oil moisturizes while the sugar exfoliates.

How to: Mix about half a teaspoon of virgin coconut oil with a quarter teaspoon of fine granulated sugar (brown sugar also works and is a little gentler). Gently apply the mixture to your lips and massage in small, circular motions for about 30 seconds. Rinse off with warm water and follow up with a fresh layer of plain coconut oil for maximum softness.

Overnight Lip Mask

For truly parched or neglected lips, an overnight coconut oil mask can work wonders. This allows the oil ample time to penetrate and repair while you’re sleeping.

How to: Before bed, after cleansing your face, apply a slightly thicker layer of virgin coconut oil to your lips than you normally would. Don’t rub it all in; let it sit like a mask. You can even apply a little extra around the lip line. Wake up to incredibly soft, supple lips.

Primer for Lipstick or Lip Stain

Dry, flaky lips are the arch-nemesis of smooth lipstick application. Coconut oil can act as a fantastic natural primer, creating an even canvas for your favorite lip color.

How to: Apply a very thin layer of coconut oil to your lips. Let it absorb for about 5 minutes. If there’s any excess, gently blot it off with a tissue. Then, apply your lipstick or stain as usual. You’ll find the color glides on more smoothly and looks more vibrant, without settling into lines or flakes.

Makeup Remover for Lip Products

Coconut oil is a well-known natural makeup remover, and it works beautifully for taking off stubborn lipsticks, especially long-wearing or matte formulas, without harsh chemicals.

How to: Dab a small amount of liquid coconut oil onto a cotton pad or your fingertip. Gently massage it over your lips to dissolve the lipstick. Wipe clean with a tissue or a damp cloth. It will leave your lips feeling clean and moisturized, not stripped and dry.

Cuticle Softener (Bonus Use)

Okay, this isn’t strictly for lips, but since you’ll likely be using your fingers to apply it, it’s a great little bonus! Any residual coconut oil on your fingertips can be massaged into your cuticles. It works wonders to soften and moisturize dry cuticles, preventing hangnails and keeping your nails looking neat and healthy. Just a little extra love for your hands while you’re tending to your lips!

My Take: Personal Reflections and Expert Opinion

Having explored various natural remedies and commercial products over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the straightforward efficacy of virgin coconut oil for lip care. It’s a prime example of how sometimes, the simplest solutions found in nature can be the most powerful. From my perspective, as someone who values both effectiveness and ingredient transparency, coconut oil ticks a lot of boxes.

I find it particularly useful as an overnight treatment. There’s something incredibly satisfying about waking up with lips that feel genuinely restored, rather than just coated. During the day, especially if I’m working from home or not wearing makeup, it’s my go-to for consistent hydration. The natural sheen it provides is also a huge bonus – it looks polished without feeling heavy or sticky like some glosses.

However, it’s crucial to temper enthusiasm with a dose of realism. While I’m a big fan, I wouldn’t recommend it as the sole solution for *every* lip care need. As we discussed, for intense sun exposure, a dedicated SPF lip balm is non-negotiable. And for those rare individuals with a coconut allergy or a strong preference for a completely unscented product, there are other excellent natural alternatives like shea butter or jojoba oil. The key is to listen to your body and your lips.

Ultimately, incorporating coconut oil into your lip care routine is an accessible, affordable, and generally safe way to nurture your pout. It offers a beautiful blend of hydration, protection, and mild therapeutic benefits, all derived from a single, natural ingredient. If you haven’t given it a solid try yet, I’d genuinely encourage you to grab a jar of virgin coconut oil and see how your lips respond. You might just discover your new favorite lip secret.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Oil and Lips

Is it safe to ingest coconut oil when applied to lips?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to ingest small amounts of coconut oil when it’s applied to your lips. Since virgin coconut oil is a food-grade product, accidentally licking your lips or ingesting a tiny bit during application poses no health risk for most people. In fact, many individuals consume coconut oil as part of their diet for its various health benefits.

However, this refers to pure, unadulterated virgin coconut oil. If you’ve mixed it with essential oils or other non-food-grade ingredients, you should exercise caution and avoid ingestion. For simple, natural lip care, using virgin coconut oil means you don’t have to worry about what might accidentally end up in your mouth.

Can it make my lips darker or lighter?

No, there is no scientific evidence or widespread anecdotal experience to suggest that applying coconut oil to your lips will permanently make them darker or lighter. Coconut oil is not known to have any bleaching or darkening properties on skin or mucous membranes.

Any perceived change in lip color after applying coconut oil is likely due to increased hydration and improved blood circulation, which can make lips appear healthier and sometimes a little rosier or plumper. If your lips were previously very chapped and discolored due to dryness, the healing and moisturizing effects of coconut oil might simply restore them to their natural, healthy color, which could be perceived as a lightening effect by some. But it doesn’t chemically alter your natural lip pigmentation.

How often should I apply it?

The frequency of coconut oil application on your lips depends largely on your individual needs and the condition of your lips. For general daily maintenance and hydration, applying it two to three times a day, such as in the morning, midday, and before bed, is often sufficient.

If you’re dealing with severely chapped, dry, or cracked lips, you might benefit from more frequent applications – every few hours or whenever your lips start to feel dry or tight. Applying a slightly thicker layer before bed as an overnight mask is also highly recommended for intensive repair. Ultimately, listen to your lips and reapply as needed to keep them feeling comfortable and moisturized.

Can I use it if I have sensitive skin?

For most individuals with sensitive skin, virgin coconut oil is generally well-tolerated. It’s a natural, minimally processed product with a simple ingredient profile, which often makes it a safer choice than commercial lip balms containing fragrances, dyes, or preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.

However, as with any new product, especially if you have highly reactive skin or known allergies, it’s always a good idea to perform a patch test first. Apply a tiny amount to a small, inconspicuous area (like the inside of your wrist or just at the corner of your mouth) and wait 24 hours to check for any signs of redness, itching, or irritation before applying it all over your lips. While rare, a coconut allergy is possible, so it’s always best to be cautious.

Does it offer sun protection?

While some natural oils, including coconut oil, are sometimes cited as having very mild sun-protective qualities, it is absolutely crucial to understand that coconut oil does not provide adequate sun protection for your lips. Some studies suggest it might have an SPF equivalent of around 4-5, which is significantly lower than the recommended SPF 30 or higher for effective sun protection.

Relying solely on coconut oil for sun protection on your lips can leave them vulnerable to sun damage, sunburn, and increase the risk of long-term issues. If you’re spending time outdoors, especially in direct sunlight, always use a dedicated lip balm that explicitly states it contains an SPF of 30 or higher to properly shield your lips from harmful UV rays. Coconut oil is a wonderful moisturizer, but it’s not a sunscreen.

What’s the best time to apply coconut oil to my lips?

There isn’t a single “best” time, as consistent application throughout the day is key. However, some timings can maximize its benefits. Applying coconut oil first thing in the morning can help protect your lips from environmental elements throughout the day and act as a hydrating base before any other lip products.

Applying it before bed is particularly effective. A thicker layer can work as an overnight lip mask, allowing the oil to deeply hydrate and repair your lips while you sleep, leading to noticeably softer lips by morning. You should also apply it whenever your lips feel dry, before going outdoors in harsh weather, or after eating and drinking, to replenish the protective barrier.

Can coconut oil help with cold sores?

Some people find that coconut oil can offer some symptomatic relief for cold sores, but it’s important to understand it’s not a cure and shouldn’t replace antiviral medications if prescribed by a doctor. The lauric acid in coconut oil has antiviral properties, which might theoretically help to combat the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) that causes cold sores.

Additionally, its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the discomfort, reduce redness, and prevent the area from drying out and cracking, which can make cold sores more painful and prone to secondary infection. While it might offer some comfort and support the healing process, if you have frequent or severe cold sores, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper treatment and management.

Will it clog the pores around my lips?

While coconut oil has a relatively high comedogenic rating, meaning it can clog pores on typical facial skin for some individuals, the risk of it clogging pores *around* your lips is generally low for most people. The skin on the lips themselves is different, with fewer oil glands, so it’s less prone to typical acne breakouts.

However, if you are very prone to acne or perioral dermatitis (a rash around the mouth), applying a very thick layer that spreads significantly onto the surrounding skin might be a concern. In such cases, apply a thin layer directly to the lip area and try to keep it confined. For the vast majority, a moderate application of coconut oil to the lips won’t lead to clogged pores or breakouts around the mouth.

How long does a jar of coconut oil last for lip care?

A single jar of coconut oil, typically 14-16 ounces, can last an incredibly long time when used solely for lip care. Since you only need a pea-sized amount or less per application, and you might apply it a few times a day, a small jar could easily last for many months, potentially even a year or more. It’s a very cost-effective solution for consistent lip hydration.

However, always check the “best by” date on the packaging, and ensure you store it properly in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain its freshness and prevent it from going rancid. If you notice any changes in smell (a sour or bitter aroma), color, or texture, it’s best to discard it and open a new jar.

Is there a difference between using solid and liquid coconut oil?

Functionally, there’s no difference in the benefits you get from solid versus liquid coconut oil, as they are the same substance. Coconut oil naturally solidifies at temperatures below approximately 76°F (24°C) and becomes liquid above that. This change in state is simply due to temperature and does not alter its chemical composition or efficacy.

The main difference lies in the application experience. Solid coconut oil is often easier to scoop and control the amount, and it melts upon contact with your body heat, making for a smooth application. Liquid coconut oil might be easier to drip, so you need to be careful to use only a tiny amount to avoid a messy application. Some prefer the convenience of one over the other, but both will provide the same moisturizing and beneficial effects for your lips.

Conclusion: Pucker Up to Natural Goodness

So, the next time you find your lips crying out for attention, don’t hesitate to reach for that jar of virgin coconut oil. It’s a simple, natural, and incredibly effective solution that many of us swear by for maintaining a soft, healthy, and happy pout. With its unique blend of moisturizing fatty acids, antimicrobial properties, and a touch of natural goodness, coconut oil truly earns its place as a beloved staple in any natural beauty regimen.

Whether you’re battling the harsh elements, seeking a natural glow, or just aiming for everyday comfort, giving your lips the coconut oil treatment is a fantastic choice. Just remember to pick a good quality virgin, cold-pressed oil, apply it consistently, and always complement it with proper SPF when the sun’s out. Here’s to luscious, naturally cared-for lips!