4 DIY LIP MASKS TO ADD TO YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE

Think about it... our lips move and encounter a lot. They also withstand heat and humidity from wearing the very essential face masks that protect us from Covid-19.

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Our lips deserve a little TLC to help them remain supple and hydrated. In recent times, lip masks and treatments have become a beauty staple, whether you’re buying one from the store or making your own. If you’re looking to save some money and instead find ingredients in your cupboard that will do the trick, then you’ve come to the right place.

Making lip masks is simple and requires no more than three ingredients. Keep your masks in the fridge and toss them out after a few days once the ingredients expire. The following masks and treatments will help with dryness, chapping, and discolouration.



1. SUGAR SCRUB
Good for: exfoliating and removing dead skin
You will need: 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, 1 teaspoon sugar
Method: Mix the sugar with dissolved/melted coconut oil.
Remove any residue from the lips and apply the mixture using your finger. Apply until lips are saturated with the mixture.
Gently rub the mixture over the lips for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse the scrub off the lips or use a damp cloth to remove it, then moisturise the lips immediately.

Why it works: Coconut oil contains moisturising properties while sugar is a great exfoliant. This scrub is not abrasive, and the sugar will dissolve as you scrub your lips. Use this scrub once or twice a week. Do not over-exfoliate the lips as this will sensitise them. Use the scrub once a week or when needed.



2. HONEY HYDRATION
Good for: dry lips
You will need: 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
Method: Mix the honey and melted/dissolved coconut oil.
Remove any residue or lip products.
Apply the mixture and leave it on for 10 minutes.
Rinse the mask off the lips or use a damp cloth to remove it, then moisturise lips immediately.

Why it works: Honey contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It’s also highly moisturising and soothing. Combined with coconut oil, this makes the mask ultra-nourishing for the lips. Use the mask as often as needed.



3. LEMON BRIGHT
Good for: brightening dull lips
You will need: 1 teaspoon of lemon, 2 teaspoons of plain yoghurt
Method: Mix ingredients together.
Remove any residue or lip products.
Apply the mixture and leave it on for 2-5 minutes.
Rinse the mask off the lips or use a damp cloth to remove it, then moisturise lips immediately.

Why it works: Lemon contains citric and lactic acid which brightens and chemically peels the skin. Yoghurt hydrates and soothes the lips. This combo will leave your lips looking brighter and hydrated. Use this mask sparingly, preferably once every two weeks or so.



4. STRAWBERRY LIPS
Good for: brightening dull lips
You will need: 1 strawberry, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 teaspoon olive oil
Method: Mash the strawberry using a fork, then add the rest of the ingredients and mix.
Remove any residue from lips.
Apply the mixture and leave it on for 10 minutes.
Rinse lips or use a damp cloth to remove the mask, then moisturise lips right away.

Why it works: Strawberries contain Vitamin C which is packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants rejuvenate the skin and protect it against the environment, while honey and olive oil contain hydrating and soothing properties. Use the mask once every week or so.

BY: NTHABISENG MAKHOKHA