There's a very prevalent myth that lip balm is addictive. Many lip gloss addicts even wonder if nefarious makeup companies put ingredients in lip balm that make you need them once you start using them. Dermatologists, however, assure us that this isn't the case--meaning makeup fans everywhere can breathe a sigh of relief.

The ''addictive'' nature of lip balm is no different from what happens when you use moisturizer anywhere else on your body. Your skin looks and feels better, so you want to keep using the product. With your lips, there is the added issue that you're likely to lick them when they feel dry. When you've licked them, the moisture evaporates, taking your lips' natural moisture with it. This causes dryness and chapped lips more quickly.

Lip balm can provide a seal of sorts to keep moisture in. It can also add moisture and shine to your lips. Since the delicate skin around your lips is prone to developing wrinkles, you should also consider getting a lip balm with an SPF of 10 or 15. Just as the rest of your face should be protected from sun damage, your lips need preventative care, too.

Many women who prefer a natural look still consider lip balm an essential part of their skin care and beauty regimens. Affordable lip balms from brand names like Avon, Mary Kay, Burt's Bees, and Clinique will make your lips kissably soft and pretty. You can also find lip balms with a hint of flavor, whether you like a gentle floral or a juicy fruit.