Most lip treatments are referred to as “chapsticks” these days - but they’re not all created equal. All chapsticks are lip balms, but not all lip balms are chapsticks. Let’s dive in.
Chapstick refers to petrolatum/petroleum jelly based lip treatments. Petroleum jelly (think: vaseline) is an occlusive that prevents moisture loss. However, if the skin is already dry, vaseline won’t add in more hydration. The actual brand “Chapstick” has become synonymous with these products. When a brand becomes a noun, it’s called “genericide” and that’s exactly what Chapstick did. Our lip balms are even referred to as “chapsticks” by customers sometimes. I have a feeling that the small, convenient, portable shape has also become associated with “chapstick”.
Lip balm refers to the same thing, but here at Olivespa we do not associate lip balms with petroleum jelly. Traditionally balms did refer to treatments made from oil to treat injuries or skin irritations. Our definition of a lip balm is a lip treatment that both treats and prevents moisture loss, different from a chapstick which just prevents moisture loss. Hydrating ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, and shea butter treat dry skin and also help to create a moisture barrier.
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