As a bh writer, I’m well aware there’s a product to address just about every beauty concern under the sun. Often, that’s a part of the fun. Other times, I just want one great multi-tasker.

Cue the lip balm, a multi-use wonder that can solve a whole host of beauty dilemmas. Yep, it ain’t just for chapped lips…

#1: To prolong your perfume

Does your favourite perfume wear off a little quicker than you’d like? Well, that handy balm could be the answer: simply dab a little on your wrists or wherever else you like your perfume before spraying. The fragrance will stick to these areas and keep you smelling beautiful all day long.

#2: As a pseudo eyeshadow

To add a subtle, no make-up makeup-esque sheen to your lids, pop on a small amount of your lip balm with your finger. If you want to up the ante, apply your favourite eyeshadow over the top – the balm will give it a luminous look. Just be sure not to apply it too thick, otherwise, your lids will just look greasy.

Image credit: @kat_mua Instagram

#3: As an illuminator

For a fresh, dewy make-up look on the go, apply a tiny bit of balm to the very tops of your cheekbones. You can also use it just above and underneath the outer edges of your brows. The best part? It’ll work with any skin tone!

#4: As a cheek tint

A tinted lip balm will give you a glowy complexion in a pinch. For a subtly stained result, dab it on to the apples of your cheeks lightly until it's completely blended. Remember, less is more!

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#5: In place of an eyebrow gel

It may not have quite the same staying power as your regular eyebrow gel, but a simple balm can be used to groom your brows to a pretty high standard in a pinch. You can also use it to set colour created by pencils or powders.

#6: For extra luscious lips

Ok, this one sounds a bit obvious, but I’m not talking about slathering it on just to combat dryness. You can also use a lip balm for a more sophisticated lip look: simply apply your favourite lip colour, followed by a teeny bit of lip balm right on your cupid’s bow as well as the very centre of your lower lip. This will help to give the illusion of a fuller pout (without the need for fillers)!

#7: To soothe rough hands and cracked cuticles

If you suffer from very dry hands, you should probably consider investing in a heavy-duty hand cream. In the meantime, rub some balm on rougher areas during the day. This will help create a barrier against the elements and prevent further drying. You may like to slather some on your cracked cuticles as well.

#8: To protect against hair dye

The first time I dyed my hair at home, I ended up with a purplish streak across my forehead, which stayed put for days. As my good friend comforted me in my time of need, she told me this nifty trick: a thin layer of lip balm around the hairline is all that’s required to prevent the colour from bleeding onto your skin. Genius.

#9: For a mess-free mani

You can also use lip balm as a barrier against nail polish. Just apply it evenly to your cuticles before painting, then wait for your nails to dry before gently wiping it – and any polish residue – off.

Image credit: intothegloss.com/
 
Lip balms we love:
Vaseline Intensive Care Petroleum Jelly
Avene Cold Cream Lip Balm
Uriage Bariederm Reconstructive Barrier Lip Balm
Nature’s Care Paw Paw Lip Balm
Natralus Natural Paw Paw Lip Balm
Dr. LeWinn's Multi-Moisture Multi-Use Balm
Paula’s Choice Lip & Body Treatment Balm

Have you ever tried any of these handy lip balm hacks? What other lip balm uses can you think of?