Lipbalm

Would anyone ever think that lipbalm would be something to cheer you up? Probably not, but don't let that fact decieve you.

Found at the bottom of handbags, under carseats, scattered on surfaces or in pockets, lipbalm (also know as lipsalve) has medical benefits as opposed to cosmetic so can be argued as unisex. Often it comes in a small attractive plastic tube and can be flavoured - I'll come to that.

The first lipbalm ever was made out of earwax. It did the job - adding an oily waxy layer to lips to prevent them drying out and cracking. Luckily, these days we have brands and manufacturers to make nice products for us, so we don't have to do some kind of ear smear (urgh).

Chapstick, Vaseline and Lipsyl all rock (or at least better than ear wax).

Intriguing stands sell lipbalm at checkouts and in pharmacies in strange flavours - lemon, cherry, orange. One day I'd like to buy them all and have some kind of pretty collection. With much the same appeal as sweets or an exciting pick and mix counter, who wouldn't? Unfortunately it's often the boring blue original that lurks on my desk and in my school uniform pockets.

You can get some really snazzy things at Claires Accessories (is this stepping across the line of "unisex")? Lip Smackers is a range from cosmetic company Bonne Bell that includes lip products. Their lipbalm range is simply tastebud-blowing: Cookie Dough, Berry Peach, Cotton Candy, 7Up, Bubble Gum, Pink Lemonade, Raspberry Melon, and more. Is your mouth watering yet? It should be.

I really like lipbalm because of it's flavour and curious air. The whole flavour reason is obvious - you'll never be bored and tasteless again! Curious air, because (much like if you are drinking herbal tea) if you are wearing funky lipbalm you will feel very cool and contemporary.

And how is this all to bring a smile to your face? As I've mentioned, begin a collection of the different flavours. That way you will have plenty of interesting ones lying in wait for you to pick up and use. I think tubes can vary from about £1-£3.

Undoubtedly it will be necessary to wear your lipbalm. I suggest first of all, you hide them everywhere. Much like if you were revising science and needed to remember lots of facts, simply dot around. Is there one by the computer? On your desk? At work? Handbag, trousers, wallet, purse, favourite mug? Then simply apply lavishly whenever you find one! Built up a kaleidoscopic barrier of flavours on your chops and never be bored again.

Line then up! Take photos of them! Indulge in lipsalve love, and free yourself from the tyranny that is chapped, tastefree lips.