Uses of Lip Balm Lip Balm, also called Lip Salve, is used to provide relief from dryness, inflammation, cracking or cold sores of the lips. It comprises of beeswax, petroleum jelly, menthol, camphor and scented oils. It feeds, softens and tones the lips. Latest lip balms contain sunscreen to protect from ultra-violet light. Some contain Phenol, which kills bacteria and prevents infection. They are packed in small containers or tubes or stick form and are applied using the fingers or directly. Lip balms are to be applied before applying lipstick to nourish lips and keep them naturally rosy. Users report that after using lip balm, that their lips become soft and smooth. The feeling of moisturization lasts for many hours after the application. No allergic reaction has been reported. Types of Lip Balm Lip balms are available in different flavors like Cherry, Kiwi-Lime, Citrus Orange and Medicated. Some companies provide Homeopathic Lip balms, in various flavors like peppermint, vanilla, cocoa butter and tea tree. It is felt that they balance the nervous system, uplift the mood and increase mental clarity. However, these effects are not proved. It depends on the user to conclude whether she experiences these consequences. A few companies manufacture Organic lip balms. They claim that these balms are very natural. These lip balms contain organic vegetable oils, which actually draw and retain the moisture, which is naturally created by the lips. Piece to piece color consistency of lip balms can be measured using an instrument like ColorQuest XE. The Carmex lip balm is particularly popular. Addiction of Lip Balm Although there are various advantages of using lip balms, there is a prime disadvantage. Some women get addicted to using lip balms, with a feeling that lips may dry or chap if the use is discontinued. This is diagnosed as a physical withdrawal or compulsive psychological need. 95% of the lip balms have the base of petroleum. The fact is that petroleum jelly creates a protective film between the lips and air. It cannot add moisture to the lips but can thwart its loss. The user becomes conversant to the sensation of moist lips and her need for the lip balm becomes perpetual.