Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part H (2025)

Aim: This review collates and summarizes scientific evidence on botanical oils, butters, waxes, and extracts used to restore and protect lip skin. We highlight the underlying phytochemistry, mechanisms of action, standard formulation approaches, and quality control (QC) needs for herbal lip care products.

Findings: Plant-derived emollients (e.g., coconut, almond, jojoba), nutritive butters (shea, cocoa), structuring waxes (beeswax, carnauba), and active extracts (aloe vera, calendula, green tea, turmeric) provide complementary effects. These ingredients deliver occlusive, humectant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties crucial for addressing the lip’s unique anatomy, including high transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and vulnerability to chapping. To guarantee reproducible performance and consumer safety in commercial herbal lip balms, the adoption of standardized monographs and robust stability/oxidation control protocols is essential.