Can You Lick Lip Balm?

Yes, you can lick your lips after applying lip balm, but it's generally not recommended. Licking your lips, especially after applying lip balm, defeats the purpose of using the product.

• Removes the protective layer: Lip balm creates a barrier to protect your lips from drying out. Licking removes this barrier, leading to further dryness and chapping. As stated on Quora, "[Y]ou will lick off the Chapstick (or whatever lip balm you use) and your lips will begin drying out and chapping again."^[1] This is echoed on Reddit, where users explain that licking off the balm "basically makes it useless".^[2]

• Saliva dries out lips: Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture from your lips, exacerbating dryness.^{[6, 10]} This is why licking your lips often makes them feel even drier.

• Potential for ingestion: While accidental ingestion of small amounts of lip balm is generally harmless,^{[3, 4]} it's best to avoid it. Many lip products are not intended for consumption and may contain ingredients that are not suitable for ingestion. The provided text explicitly states that "it is important that they are not eaten or swallowed".^[0]

When Licking is Less of a Problem

Licking your lips after applying lip balm with a flavor you enjoy might seem tempting, but remember this is not ideal. However, accidental licking of small amounts isn't likely to cause harm. One Quora answer states that "Unintended consumption like eating while wearing it or talking or licking your lips won't hurt you."^[3]

Better Alternatives to Licking Your Lips

If you have dry lips, apply a good quality lip balm and avoid licking them. Reapply the balm as needed throughout the day.

[0]: Many types of lip products are available for cosmetic and medical purposes. They come in various colors, scents, and forms to fit the user's needs and preferences. Despite how colorful and fragrant these products are, it is important that they are not eaten or swallowed.

[1]: Quora: Is it safe to lick my lips when I have applied chap stick?

[2]: Reddit: After applying chapstick to your lips, are you supposed to wait to lick ...

[3]: Quora: If you swallow some lip balm, are you ok/safe?

[4]: Reddit: Is it bad to swallow lip balm?

[6]: Reddit: Eli5 why does licking your lips make them more dry

[10]: NIVEA: Great Ways To Get Healthy Lips