The belief that lip balm causes a kind of dependence has circulated for years, especially in winter when many people reapply it throughout the day.
According to the Danish dermatologist Janne Touborg, this warning is more folklore than fact.
She noted that people often confuse the return of dryness with needing more balm, even though the sensation comes from the environment, not a physiological craving.
Unlike most areas of the body, the lips have no oil glands and only a very thin outer layer.
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That means cold air, wind and sunlight can pull moisture away quickly.
Some people try to fix the discomfort by licking their lips, which feels soothing for a moment but evaporates fast, leaving the skin even drier.
Can you get addicted?
Janne Touborg emphasized that lip balm doesn’t create dependence. It simply forms a temporary shield so the skin can retain moisture.
When the coating wears off, the lips return to their natural state, which may still be dry if the weather is harsh.
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That cycle can feel like “addiction,” she said, but it’s really just protection fading over time.
She added that using balm regularly, even multiple times a day, is safe.
For people spending long hours outdoors or at high altitudes, choosing a product with sun protection helps prevent further irritation from ultraviolet light.
Choosing a balm that works for you
Consumers often debate whether sticks or small pots are better.
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Both are fine, though pots usually contain more preservatives because fingers touch the product directly.
For anyone with allergies or eczema, Janne Touborg advised selecting formulas without fragrance, lanolin or certain preservatives that can trigger reactions.
Overall, dermatologists agree: lip balm doesn’t trap you in a cycle of dependency. It simply offers a practical layer of comfort for a part of the body that dries out easily.
Source: iForm.dk.
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