The Essence Journal

How Often Should You Scrub Your Lips? Daily, Weekly or Never
How Often Should You Scrub Your Lips? Daily, Weekly or Never
How often should you scrub your lips? Once a week at most, and some dermatologists say never. Advice online ranges from daily scrubbing to none at all, which is why... Read more...
Rose Water and Sugar Lip Scrub: Exact Steps, Amounts and How Often to Use It
Rose Water and Sugar Lip Scrub: Exact Steps, Amounts and How Often to Use It
How do you use rose water and sugar on your lips without it turning runny or leaving them sore? Make a thick paste, rub gently for under a minute, rinse,... Read more...
Lemon and Apple Cider Vinegar on Lips: What's Safe and What Burns
Lemon and Apple Cider Vinegar on Lips: What's Safe and What Burns
Is that lemon or vinegar trick on your lips actually safe? Not really, and it can leave your lips darker than they started. Both remedies are cheap, sit in most... Read more...
Dark Lips from Smoking: What Actually Works (and What Makes Them Darker)
Dark Lips from Smoking: What Actually Works (and What Makes Them Darker)
Have you scrubbed, tried turmeric, and put on Vaseline, and your lips are still dark? You are not doing it wrong, and you are not the only one. Smoking-related pigmentation... Read more...
Why Does Your Lip Gloss Burn? (And How to Pick One That Won't)
Why Does Your Lip Gloss Burn? (And How to Pick One That Won't)
It's Probably Not a Bad Gloss You swipe on a new lip gloss. Within seconds, your lips feel warm, tingly, or outright burning. Your first thought is that something's wrong... Read more...
Lip Products Explained: Gloss, Oil, Balm, Stain & Lipstick
Lip Products Explained: Gloss, Oil, Balm, Stain & Lipstick
Gloss, oil, balm, stain, and lipstick, explained simply. Compare finish, color, and wear time to find the right lip product format for you at any given moment.  Read more...
Lip Gloss vs. Lip Oil: What's the Difference?
Lip Gloss vs. Lip Oil: What's the Difference?
Lip gloss sits on top of the lip for a high-shine finish, while lip oil is thinner, sinks in slightly, and gives a softer sheen. Gloss usually has more color... Read more...
How to Make Lip Gloss Last Through Nairobi Heat
How to Make Lip Gloss Last Through Nairobi Heat
Simple tips to help lip gloss look fresh through a warm Nairobi day, from gentle prep and light layers to easy touch-ups. Read more...
How to Choose a Lip Gloss: The Complete Guide
How to Choose a Lip Gloss: The Complete Guide
Finish, shade, family, texture, occasion. A complete guide to choosing the right lip gloss, with real shade recommendations from Summer Fridays and Gisou. Read more...