Dry, cracked lips are the worst, and sometimes lip balm is just not enough. Lips are structurally different than your facial skin and need their own TLC!
I started making DIY lip masks because I wanted something simple yet effective. The best part is most DIY lip mask recipes use ingredients you probably already have at home. I love making lip treatments when a girlfriend comes over for an easy little spa moment.
Below, I have them grouped by concern so you can pick what your lips need most: exfoliating to smooth, hydrating to add moisture back in, or overnight treatments that work while you sleep. Add these in to your regular skincare routine for a little added lip treatments!
Why Lips Dry Out Easily
If you feel like your lips are always dry, you are not imagining it. Lips are different from the rest of your skin. They are thinner, more delicate, and they do not have oil glands to keep themselves naturally moisturized.
On top of that, they are constantly exposed to sun, wind, cold air, heat, and AC. And let’s be real, we all lick our lips when they feel dry, which actually makes them even more chapped.
That is where a lip mask comes in. Unlike regular lip balm that you swipe on and forget about, a lip mask is meant to sit on your lips longer. It creates a deeper layer of moisture and protection, which helps your lips stay soft long term, not just for a few minutes.
Exfoliating Lip Masks
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Exfoliating your lips helps remove some of the dry and flaking skin. As a result, your pout will turn into a smile as shine, smoothness, and softness are restored. I like to exfoliate my lips 1-2x a week (more in the winter when they’re really dry). If you’re lips are cracked or bleeding, it would probably be best to wait on these to not aggravate them further.
1. Yogurt and Kiwi Scrub
To combat dry skin, try this hydrating lip mask! Start with organic yogurt. Its content of fat and lactic acid softens and nourishes the lips. Meanwhile, the kiwi fruit does the same with its citric acid, Vitamins A, K, and E, and it is oily, rich, and non-waxy.
This lip mask has a fairly creamy texture and is one of the most gentle exfoliating scrubs. It has a low level of grit which comes from the kiwi seeds.
Ingredients:
- Organic Greek yogurt (1 tbsp)
- Mashed kiwi (1 tbsp)
- Sugar (1 tbsp)
- Plastic wrap
Instructions:
- Mix the yogurt and sugar together.
- Let the mixture sit until the sugar dissolves into the yogurt.
- Add in the mashed kiwi. Mix well.
- Apply the mixture onto your lips.
- Apply a small piece of plastic wrap over the lips. Think lip spa!
- Allow the heat to nourish, soften, and hydrate those tired lips, and slough off dead skin.
2. Lavender and Honey Scrub
If you have consistently chapped lips, lavender oil can work its magic by healing those skin tissues and calming inflammation.
Lavender has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which soothe and hydrate the lips. Meanwhile, a honey lip mask is known to moisturize lips and even put up a barrier to prevent your chapped lips from getting infected.
I love the brown sugar in this one to really remove all the excess dead skin. It feels so good when you rinse it off! This one is the most gritty of the exfoliating masks due to the sugar.
Ingredients:
- Lavender essential oil (5-6 drops)
- Raw honey (1 tbsp)
- Brown sugar (1 tbsp)
- Warm water
Instructions:
- Get a small bowl.
- Pour the raw honey and brown sugar into the bowl. Mix well.
- Add 5-6 drops of lavender oil. Mix well.
- Using a circular motion, massage the scrub onto your lips for 3 minutes.
- With warm water, wash away the scrub clean from your lips.
- Apply lip balm to lock in the moisturizing properties of the scrub.
3. Strawberry and Coffee
Packed with salicylic acid and Vitamin C, strawberries are natural lip exfoliators. This yummy fruit removes dead skin cells and is especially effective on thin, cracked lips.
Meanwhile, coffee doesn’t only smell fantastic, it has properties that rejuvenate the lips and infuse it with color. The strawberry and coffee combo is a powerful concoction in revitalizing your suffering pout.
Depends on how mashed up you can get the strawberries, this one has a pretty chunky texture with a combination grittiness. The strawberries don’t add much grit while the coffee ads a decent about of grittiness (but not as much as the sugar).
I love making a shot of espresso for this one. It’s a perfect amount grounds without having to waste a pot of coffee and it perfect to sip some espresso while I mix up the mask!
Ingredients:
- Strawberries (1-2)
- Coffee grounds
- Vitamin E oil (1 tsp)
Instructions:
- Mash 1 to 2 strawberries
- Make the strawberries slick and silky by adding your desired amount of Vitamin E oil.
- Throw in a pinch of coffee grounds.
- Mix this yummy concoction well.
- Leave on lips for 30 minutes.
4. Turmeric Trick
A potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, the golden yellow turmeric is a super-healthy spice that also benefits the lips. This powerful powder, with its rich amount of curcumin, can fight off lip inflammation.
As an added benefit, turmeric also acts as a melanin inhibitor. Which means, it also helps out in lightening those lips, leaving them looking healthy and shiny.
This mask is also very gritty because of the granulated sugar which is very effective at scrubbing off dead skin. The oil can give it a bit of a messy texture to it since it can be very liquid, depending on how warm it is.
Ingredients:
- Pure turmeric powder (½ tsp)
- Granulated sugar (½ cup)
- Beeswax (1 tbsp)
- Coconut oil (3 tbsp)
- Castor oil (3 tbsp)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the turmeric powder and coconut oil until thoroughly blended.
- Once blended, add in sugar and castor oil. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the beeswax and mix until thick and even.
- Microwave the mixture for 2 minutes in 30-second intervals. Stir thoroughly in between.
- Once done, stir once more.
- Place the mixture in a container and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
- Apply to lips.
Moisturizing Lip Masks
Moisturizing your lips shouldn’t be restricted to wintertime alone. This has to be done in all seasons of the year. Why? You want those luscious lips protected from harsh elements that can dry your skin, including weather, sun exposure, and heat. These are especially useful when you notice your lips dry out even quicker when wearing a lip gloss!
5. Sweet Chocolate
Packed with regenerating Vitamin E, omegas, fatty acids, and antioxidants, cocoa powder is a sweet solution to those dry and chapped lips. Also, it contains collagen that can plump that pout.
Cocoa powder has rich and restorative powers. For this reason, using this as a lip exfoliator will leave your lips luscious and healthy. I love this little lip care when I need something a little sweet! I don’t lick it off but it does leave a sweet taste when you’re done. This one is best for dull lips from dry winter weather.
Ingredients:
- Cocoa powder (1 tbsp)
- Raw honey (¾ tbsp)
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
Instructions:
- Get a small bowl and pour all the measured ingredients.
- Mix together well until thoroughly blended.
- Apply the scrub to your lips.
- Massage the scrub in a circular motion
- Leave the exfoliator lip mask on for 5 minutes
- Wash off with warm water.
6. Shea Butter
Soften and plump those dry and thin lips by using shea butter, which is packed with fatty acids and antioxidants. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an effective topical lip-healing balm.
A naturally powerful emollient, shea butter builds a barrier on the lips to help lock in the moisture. As a result, your lips will be left supple and smooth. Best for dryness due to dry air to really seal in moisture.
Ingredients:
- Shea butter (1 tsp)
- Beeswax (1 tsp)
- Coconut oil (1 tsp)
Instructions:
- Boil water, then pour it in a bowl.
- Put shea butter in a separate and smaller bowl.
- Put the bowl of shea butter in the bowl of boiling water.
- Allow the shea butter to melt.
- Add beeswax into the bowl of shea butter and mix.
- Mix in coconut oil.
- Once everything has melted and blended, transfer the mixture into a plastic container that can be sealed.
- Refrigerate the sealed container.
- Apply before bedtime every day.
7. Avocado + Honey
After enjoying that avocado toast, why not use the leftover avocado for a homemade moisturizing lip care? Avocado is jam packed with protein, beta carotene, fatty acids, lecithin, and vitamins A, D, and E.
Avocado’s rich vitamins, nutrients, and minerals moisturize and nourish the lips. This one looks a little weird and my kids always giggle when they see me with green on my lips but it works! This one is best for winter damaged lips!
Ingredients:
- Mashed avocado (2 tsp)
- Honey (1 tsp)
Instructions:
- Put two teaspoons of mashed avocado in a bowl.
- Add honey and mix thoroughly.
- Apply to lips for 20 minutes.
- Wash with warm water.
8. Rose Petals
Slather rose petals on your dry lips to bring them back to life and health. Known as a natural remedy for parched and chapped lips, rose petals contain antioxidants and polyphenols that soften and hydrate the lips.
As a bonus, rose petal-infused lip balms give your lips a pinkish, shimmering effect. It makes it feel like you’re wearing a store-bought lip tint. Best for brightening dry, dull or irritated lips.
Ingredients:
- Rose petal powder (3 tbsp)
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt (1 tbsp)
- Honey (1 tbsp)
Instructions:
- Put rose petal powder into a small bowl. If you don’t have the powder, you can put dried rose petals in a blender to grind them.
- Add honey and yogurt. Mix together.
- Apply the mixture to your lips.
- Leave on for 15 minutes.
Gel Lip Mask
9. Coconut Beetroot
Popular brands are selling stick on or peel off masks designed to rejuvenate the lips and bring back its shine and health. The great news is that you can now create one yourself. DIY gel masks are fun to make, so get those ingredients ready!
These masks us agar which is a jelly like substance similar to gelatin used to thicken things (usually sauces, drinks candies, etc). It’s made from seaweed and vegan too! Be sure to use immediately due to there being no preservatives – please don’t save this!
Ingredients:
- Coconut oil (1 tbsp)
- Agar powder (¼ tsp)
- Pink beetroot powder
- Water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, boil water.
- While water is boiling, add the agar agar powder. Stir and let the mixture boil for another 1 minute.
- Toss in a pinch of pink beetroot powder. Mix until the color in the mixture is even and well-blended.
- Turn off the heat.
- Once the heat is off, add the coconut oil into the mixture until dissolved.
- Once done, pour the mixture onto a large and wide plate.
- Spread the mixture on the plate into a thin layer.
- Wait for it to cool and firm, which takes about 30 minutes.
- This mixture makes 2 gel lip masks. Don’t use the leftover. Immediately use them.
- Once cool, cut out a lip-shaped portion big enough to cover your whole lips.
- Make a slit in the middle, imitating your mouth.
- Peel off the DIY lip mask from the plate and apply it over your lips.
- Leave the mask on your lips for 15 minutes.
Overnight Lip Mask
10. Overnight Coconut Mask
If you need something a little more intensive, an overnight coconut lip mask is such a good option. I love putting this on before bed and letting it work while I sleep. You wake up with lips that feel softer, smoother, and way more nourished.
Overnight treatments work so well because they create a light occlusive layer over your lips. That layer helps seal in moisture and prevents water loss while you sleep, which is when your skin naturally repairs itself. Instead of just sitting on top like a quick swipe of balm, it has time to really soak in and protect.
Coconut oil usually absorbs within about 15 to 30 minutes, but I still try to fall asleep on my back so I am not rubbing it all over my pillowcase. If you have sensitive skin, it is always smart to do a small patch test first, especially since coconut oil can be a little heavy for some people.
Ingredients:
- Coconut oil
- Raw honey
Instructions:
- Take equal parts of coconut oil and honey.
- Mix them together in a bowl until the mixture achieves a thick consistency.
- Apply on chapped, dry or inflamed lips before bed.
- Wash off in the morning.
How to Store DIY Lip Masks Safely
Since these DIY lip masks use fresh ingredients and no preservatives, they do not last very long. Most will stay fresh for about 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator, depending on what you use. I recommend making small batches so nothing goes to waste.
Always store them in a clean, airtight container. I like to use a small glass jar that has been washed well and fully dried. Try not to dip your fingers into the container over and over. Instead, use a clean spatula or spoon to scoop out what you need. That helps keep bacteria out and extends the life a bit.
If you notice any change in smell, texture, or color, toss it. When it comes to products you are putting on your lips, it is always better to be safe and make a fresh batch.
Lip Mask vs. Lip Balm vs. Lip Scrub
If you are not sure which one you need, here is a simple breakdown of what each does and when I use them.
Lip Mask
- Purpose: Deep hydration and repair
- Texture: Thick, creamy, or balm like
- When to use: Before bed or when lips feel extra dry
- How often: A few times a week or nightly during dry seasons
A lip mask is meant to sit on your lips longer. I reach for this when my lips feel cracked, tight, or beyond what regular balm can fix.
Lip Balm
- Purpose: Daily moisture and protection
- Texture: Lightweight, smooth, easy to swipe on
- When to use: Throughout the day
- How often: As needed
Lip balm is your everyday go to. It helps maintain moisture and protect against the elements, but it is not as intensive as a mask.
Lip Scrub
- Purpose: Exfoliate and remove dry, flaky skin
- Texture: Gritty or grainy
- When to use: Before applying a mask or balm
- How often: One to two times per week
A lip scrub helps smooth things out. I like using one before a lip mask so the moisture can sink in better. Just do not overdo it since lips are delicate.
Lip masks are a great version of self care that you can do right at home. If you need some other ideas for self care gifts, check out these self care gifts or this creative snackle box self care gift idea!
FAQs
I like using simple, nourishing ingredients like honey, coconut oil, shea butter, yogurt, and aloe vera. They help hydrate, soothe, and protect without being complicated.
Ingredients that both hydrate and seal in moisture work best, like honey topped with coconut oil or shea butter. The key is adding moisture and then locking it in.
You do not always have to, but gently exfoliating can help remove flaky dead skin and preps your lips so the mask can absorb better. Just keep it to once or twice a week so you do not irritate your lips.
Most DIY lip masks last about 1 to 3 days in the refrigerator since they do not contain preservatives. If the smell or texture changes, it is time to toss it and make a fresh batch.