Lip Care Glossary
Understand the ingredients and terms behind your lip care products.
A
Angular Cheilitis
A specific form of cheilitis affecting the corners of the mouth, causing painful cracking, redness, and sometimes bleeding. It can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, vitamin deficiencies (B vitamins, iron), drooling, or poorly fitting dentures. Keeping the lip area moisturized may help prevent flare-ups, but persistent angular cheilitis should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Antimicrobial
A property of substances that kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Several of Numbrrrz's ingredients have natural antimicrobial properties: coconut oil's lauric acid, beeswax's inherent antimicrobial qualities, and the organic essential oils used in our scented varieties. These natural antimicrobials help keep lips healthy and protect against infection of cracked skin.
Antioxidant
A substance that neutralizes free radicals — unstable molecules that damage cells through oxidative stress. In lip care, antioxidants like vitamin E protect lip skin from UV damage, pollution, and environmental aging. They help prevent premature wrinkles and support the skin's natural repair processes. Numbrrrz's vitamin E provides potent antioxidant protection in every application.
Aromatherapy
The practice of using natural plant extracts, especially essential oils, to promote physical and emotional well-being. In lip care, aromatherapy adds a therapeutic dimension to routine application. Numbrrrz Lavender provides calming aromatherapy, while Peppermint offers invigorating refreshment. Both use genuine organic essential oils, not synthetic fragrance.
C
Camphor
A waxy substance with a strong aroma used in some medicated lip balms like Carmex and Blistex. Camphor creates a cooling, tingling sensation that feels soothing but actually irritates lip tissue, contributing to the lip balm dependency cycle. Dermatologists frequently recommend avoiding camphor in lip products for people with chronic lip dryness.
Carrier Oil
A mild, typically plant-derived oil used to dilute essential oils before topical application, since undiluted essential oils can irritate skin. In Numbrrrz, our organic coconut oil and jojoba oil serve as carrier oils for the lavender and peppermint essential oils in our scented varieties. Good carrier oils also deliver their own nutritional benefits to the skin, making them active ingredients rather than just diluting agents.
Cell Turnover
The natural process by which old, dead skin cells are shed and replaced by new cells from deeper layers. On the lips, this process happens faster than on most body skin, which is why lips can heal quickly but also dry out fast. Ingredients like vitamin A (found naturally in beeswax) and vitamin E support healthy cell turnover, promoting smoother, healthier lip skin over time.
Cheilitis
The medical term for inflammation of the lips. Cheilitis can be caused by allergic reactions (allergic contact cheilitis), environmental exposure (actinic cheilitis from sun damage), infections, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic lip licking. Symptoms include redness, swelling, cracking, and peeling. While Numbrrrz is not a treatment for medical cheilitis, maintaining lip moisture and barrier health can help prevent some forms.
Clean Beauty
A movement and product philosophy focused on using non-toxic, transparently sourced ingredients and avoiding potentially harmful chemicals. While the term is not federally regulated, clean beauty brands typically avoid parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petroleum, and other controversial ingredients. Numbrrrz embodies clean beauty with its 4-ingredient organic formula.
Coconut Oil
An oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts, rich in medium-chain fatty acids including lauric acid. In lip care, coconut oil penetrates quickly to deliver deep hydration at a cellular level. It also has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Numbrrrz uses certified organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil to preserve the full spectrum of beneficial compounds.
Cold-Pressed
An extraction method that uses mechanical pressure at low temperatures to extract oil from seeds, nuts, or fruit. Cold pressing preserves the oil's natural nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds that would be destroyed by heat-based extraction methods. Numbrrrz uses cold-pressed virgin coconut oil to ensure maximum nutritional value and effectiveness.
Comedogenic
A comedogenic ingredient is one that tends to clog pores, potentially causing blackheads, whiteheads, or acne. Lips do not have pores, so comedogenicity is less of a concern for lip-specific products. However, lip balm applied near the lip line can affect surrounding skin. Numbrrrz uses non-comedogenic jojoba oil that does not clog pores.
Cruelty-Free
Products that have not been tested on animals at any stage of development. Numbrrrz is cruelty-free — we never test on animals and never will. While our products contain beeswax (which means they are not vegan), our beeswax is ethically sourced from sustainable apiaries that prioritize bee welfare.
D
Dermatologist-Tested
A labeling claim indicating that a product has been evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist. However, 'dermatologist-tested' is not a regulated term — it does not specify what tests were performed, what the results were, or whether the dermatologist approved the product. A product can be labeled dermatologist-tested even if the dermatologist found it irritating. Consumers should focus on ingredient lists rather than marketing claims.
Dimethicone
A silicone-based polymer commonly used in lip balms, lotions, and cosmetics. It creates a smooth, silky texture and provides an occlusive barrier. While generally considered safe, dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient that some clean-beauty consumers prefer to avoid. Numbrrrz uses beeswax instead of dimethicone for barrier protection, providing a natural alternative.
E
Emollient
A substance that softens and moisturizes the skin by filling gaps between skin cells with lipids (fats), creating a smooth, hydrated surface. Natural emollients like coconut oil and jojoba oil penetrate the skin to deliver moisture from within, unlike synthetic emollients that may only sit on the surface. Numbrrrz uses organic emollients that work with your skin's natural processes.
Endocrine Disruptors
Chemicals that can interfere with the body's hormonal (endocrine) system. Some common cosmetic ingredients, including certain parabens and phthalates, have been identified as potential endocrine disruptors. Since lip products are partially ingested through normal use, avoiding endocrine disruptors in lip care is particularly important. Numbrrrz contains zero known endocrine disruptors.
Essential Oil
A concentrated plant extract obtained through steam distillation or cold pressing, capturing the plant's natural aromatic and therapeutic compounds. Unlike synthetic fragrances, essential oils retain the beneficial properties of their source plants. Numbrrrz uses organic essential oils (lavender, peppermint) for scented varieties, providing genuine aromatherapeutic benefits rather than artificial fragrance.
Ethical Sourcing
The practice of ensuring that products and ingredients are obtained in a responsible and sustainable manner that respects workers, communities, and the environment. For lip care ingredients, ethical sourcing addresses fair labor practices in coconut oil production, sustainable harvesting of jojoba seeds, and humane treatment of bees in beeswax collection. Numbrrrz prioritizes ethical sourcing across all ingredients in our supply chain.
Exfoliant
A substance or method that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Lip exfoliants typically use sugar or fine particles to buff away dry, flaky skin. While exfoliating can temporarily smooth lips, over-exfoliation damages the delicate lip barrier. Numbrrrz is not an exfoliant but works well after gentle lip exfoliation, sealing in moisture and protecting newly revealed skin cells.
F
Fatty Acids
Building blocks of fats and oils that are essential for healthy skin. In lip care, fatty acids from natural sources like coconut oil and jojoba oil help repair the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and deliver moisture at a cellular level. They are far more effective at genuine hydration than petroleum derivatives, which lack any nutritional value for the skin.
Free Radicals
Unstable molecules that damage cells by stealing electrons from healthy molecules, a process called oxidative stress. Free radicals are generated by UV exposure, pollution, smoking, and other environmental factors. They accelerate skin aging, damage collagen, and compromise the skin barrier. Antioxidants like vitamin E neutralize free radicals before they can cause damage.
H
Humectant
A substance that attracts and holds water molecules from the environment or deeper skin layers to the surface. Common humectants in skincare include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and honey. While Numbrrrz does not use traditional humectants, jojoba oil functions similarly by attracting and retaining moisture in lip tissue naturally.
Hypoallergenic
A term describing products formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. While not a regulated term by the FDA, truly hypoallergenic products use few, well-tolerated ingredients. Numbrrrz's 4-ingredient formula with no fragrances (in the Unscented variety), preservatives, or common allergens makes it one of the most hypoallergenic lip balms available.
L
Lanolin
A waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals, most commonly sheep. Widely used in lip balms and skincare as an emollient, lanolin is one of the top 5 allergens in lip care products, causing contact dermatitis in a significant percentage of people. Numbrrrz does not contain lanolin, using organic plant oils instead.
Lauric Acid
A medium-chain fatty acid found abundantly in coconut oil (about 50% of its composition). Lauric acid has documented antimicrobial properties, helping protect skin from harmful bacteria. It also contributes to coconut oil's ability to penetrate skin quickly and deliver deep hydration. The lauric acid in Numbrrrz's coconut oil base is one of the key reasons our lip balm works so effectively.
Lavender Essential Oil
A popular essential oil steam-distilled from lavender flowers (Lavandula angustifolia). Clinically shown to have calming, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, lavender is one of the gentlest essential oils for topical use. Numbrrrz uses certified organic lavender essential oil in our Lavender lip balm variety for its soothing scent and skin benefits.
Lip Balm Addiction
A widely discussed phenomenon where frequent lip balm users feel they cannot go without it. True physiological addiction does not occur, but some lip balm ingredients — particularly camphor, menthol in high concentrations, and salicylic acid — can irritate lip tissue, creating a cycle of dryness and reapplication. Lip balms made with nourishing ingredients like organic plant oils and beeswax do not cause this cycle because they genuinely improve lip health rather than irritating tissue.
Lip Barrier
The protective outermost layer of lip skin that prevents moisture loss and protects against environmental damage. Unlike regular skin, the lip barrier is much thinner and lacks oil glands, making it more vulnerable to drying and damage. Lip balm ingredients like beeswax supplement and strengthen this barrier, while oils like coconut and jojoba support its natural function.
M
Medium-Chain Fatty Acids
Fatty acids with 6-12 carbon atoms that are more easily absorbed by the skin than longer-chain fatty acids. Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid (12 carbons), which is why it penetrates lip tissue quickly and provides rapid hydration. This is a key advantage over heavier oils like shea butter.
Menthol
An organic compound found naturally in mint plants that produces a cooling sensation on skin. While menthol in small amounts (like in Numbrrrz Peppermint's organic peppermint essential oil) can provide pleasant stimulation, the synthetic menthol used in high concentrations in medicated lip balms can irritate lip tissue and worsen dryness over time.
Mineral Oil
A colorless, odorless oil derived from petroleum. Commonly used in conventional cosmetics as an inexpensive moisturizer. Like petroleum jelly, mineral oil sits on the skin surface creating a barrier but does not penetrate or deliver nutrients. It can also interfere with the skin's natural processes. Numbrrrz uses plant-based oils instead of mineral oil for genuine hydration.
Mucous Membrane
The thin, moist tissue that lines body openings, including the inside of the lips and mouth. Lip skin sits at the transition zone between external skin and internal mucous membrane, which is why it is thinner, more absorbent, and more sensitive than regular skin. This is also why the ingredients in lip balm matter — they are absorbed more readily than products applied elsewhere on the body.
N
Non-Comedogenic
A product or ingredient that does not clog pores. Jojoba oil, a key ingredient in Numbrrrz, is naturally non-comedogenic because its molecular structure allows it to work with your skin rather than blocking follicles. This makes Numbrrrz safe to apply liberally without worrying about breakouts around the lip area.
Non-GMO
Products made without genetically modified organisms. Non-GMO ingredients are grown using traditional breeding methods. All organic ingredients are inherently non-GMO, as organic certification prohibits genetic modification. Numbrrrz's organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and essential oils are all non-GMO by virtue of their organic certification.
O
Occlusive
An ingredient that forms a physical barrier on the skin surface to prevent water loss through evaporation. Petroleum jelly is the most common occlusive, but it creates a fully airtight seal that prevents skin from breathing. Beeswax is a natural occlusive that creates a breathable barrier — it reduces water loss while still allowing skin to function naturally. This is why Numbrrrz uses beeswax instead of petroleum.
Organic
Agricultural products grown and processed without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or irradiation. In personal care, organic ingredients reduce exposure to potentially harmful agricultural chemicals. Numbrrrz uses certified organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and essential oils, ensuring the purest possible ingredients come in contact with your lips.
Oxidative Stress
A condition where the body has more free radicals than antioxidants can neutralize, leading to cell damage. In lip skin, oxidative stress causes premature aging, dryness, and reduced elasticity. Environmental factors like UV light and pollution increase oxidative stress. Antioxidants in lip care products, like the vitamin E in Numbrrrz, help combat this damage.
P
Parabens
A group of synthetic preservatives (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben) widely used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent bacterial growth. Parabens have been detected in human tissue samples and can mimic estrogen in the body, raising concerns about potential hormonal disruption. Numbrrrz achieves product stability naturally through vitamin E and beeswax, avoiding parabens entirely.
Patch Test
A method of testing for allergic reactions by applying a small amount of product to a small area of skin before full use. For lip products, a patch test is typically done on the inner forearm. If redness, itching, or irritation develops within 24-48 hours, the product should not be used. While Numbrrrz's simple organic formula rarely causes reactions, we recommend patch testing for anyone with known sensitivities.
Peppermint Essential Oil
A concentrated oil steam-distilled from peppermint leaves (Mentha piperita). Unlike synthetic menthol, organic peppermint essential oil contains a complex profile of beneficial compounds including natural menthol, menthone, and various terpenes. In lip care, it provides a refreshing scent and mild circulation-boosting effect. Numbrrrz uses certified organic peppermint essential oil in carefully measured amounts.
Petrolatum
Another name for petroleum jelly — a semi-solid mixture derived from petroleum refining. Petrolatum is the primary ingredient in products like Vaseline and is used in many conventional lip balms. While it creates an effective moisture barrier, it does not hydrate and may contain trace contaminants. Numbrrrz uses plant-based alternatives that actively moisturize.
Petroleum (Petrolatum)
A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from crude oil refining. Commonly used in conventional lip balms as an occlusive barrier. While effective at preventing moisture loss, petroleum does not add moisture — it only traps what is already present. It can also prevent skin from breathing naturally and may contain trace contaminants. Numbrrrz does not use petroleum in any of its products.
Photodamage
Skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Lips are particularly susceptible to photodamage because they have very thin skin, no melanin for natural UV protection, and no oil glands. Chronic photodamage to the lips can cause dryness, premature aging, and actinic keratosis. While Numbrrrz does not contain SPF, vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against UV-related free radical damage.
Preservatives
Substances added to products to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. Synthetic preservatives like parabens and formaldehyde releasers are common in conventional lip balms. Numbrrrz avoids synthetic preservatives entirely, instead relying on vitamin E's natural antioxidant properties and beeswax's inherent antimicrobial qualities to maintain product freshness and safety.
Propolis
A resinous mixture produced by honeybees from tree buds and sap, used to seal their hives. Propolis has antimicrobial properties but is a common allergen, especially in people with bee-related allergies. Some lip balms include propolis, but Numbrrrz does not, preferring to minimize allergen risk while using beeswax for barrier protection.
S
Sebum
The natural oily substance produced by sebaceous glands in the skin. Sebum helps maintain skin moisture and creates a protective barrier against environmental damage. Lips do not have sebaceous glands, which is why they dry out faster than other skin areas and need external moisture. Jojoba oil's molecular structure closely mimics sebum, making it an ideal lip moisturizer.
Shelf Life
The period during which a product remains effective and safe to use. Numbrrrz lip balm has a shelf life of approximately 12-18 months from production, maintained naturally by vitamin E's antioxidant properties and the inherently stable nature of our oil and wax-based formula. No synthetic preservatives are needed because our waterless formula does not support bacterial growth.
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
A measure of how well a product protects against UVB radiation from the sun. SPF lip balms contain chemical or mineral UV filters. Numbrrrz does not include SPF, focusing instead on pure organic hydration and nourishment. For sun protection, we recommend layering a mineral SPF lip product over Numbrrrz to get both hydration and UV protection.
T
Tocopherol
The chemical name for vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant. Alpha-tocopherol is the most biologically active form and is the type most commonly used in skincare. It protects cell membranes from oxidative damage and serves as a natural preservative in oil-based products. In Numbrrrz, tocopherol (vitamin E) provides both skin benefits and formula stability.
Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)
The process by which water passes through the skin from the inside and evaporates from the surface. Lips have a very thin skin barrier and no oil glands, making them particularly susceptible to TEWL. Occlusives like beeswax reduce TEWL by creating a barrier, while emollients like coconut and jojoba oils help maintain the skin's own moisture retention capacity.
U
USDA Organic
A certification from the United States Department of Agriculture verifying that agricultural products have been grown and processed according to strict federal guidelines addressing soil quality, animal raising practices, pest and weed control, and use of additives. For personal care ingredients, organic certification ensures no synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or GMOs were used in production. Numbrrrz uses USDA-certified organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and essential oils.
UV Protection
Shielding skin from ultraviolet radiation, which causes sunburn, premature aging, and increases skin cancer risk. Lips are particularly vulnerable to UV damage because they have thin skin and minimal melanin. While Numbrrrz does not contain SPF, our vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against UV-generated free radicals. For direct sun exposure, layer a mineral SPF product over Numbrrrz.
V
Vegan
Products that contain no animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals. Common animal-derived lip balm ingredients include beeswax, lanolin, carmine (a red dye from insects), and squalane (sometimes from shark liver). Numbrrrz is not vegan because it contains ethically sourced beeswax, which we chose for its superior breathable barrier properties over plant-based wax alternatives.
Vermilion Border
The sharp line between the colored part of your lips (vermilion) and the surrounding skin. The vermilion border is one of the most distinctive features of the human face and is particularly sensitive to dryness and damage. Lip balm should be applied to cover the entire vermilion area including the border for complete protection.
Vitamin A
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for skin cell turnover and repair. Beeswax naturally contains small amounts of vitamin A, which supports the regeneration of lip skin cells. This contributes to smoother, healthier-looking lips over time. Note: concentrated vitamin A derivatives (retinol) should be avoided during pregnancy, but the trace amounts in beeswax are considered safe.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells from oxidative damage caused by UV exposure, pollution, and environmental stress. In lip care, vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, supports wound healing, promotes cell regeneration, and serves as a natural preservative that extends the shelf life of plant-based oils without the need for synthetic additives like parabens.