How many times have you been kissed under the mistletoe?
While the movies make it seem like mistletoe is everywhere during the holiday season and you can be kissed at any time, the actual reality is not quite the case.
That said, we recommend that you make sure your lips are ready for kissing anyway! Not to mention, with New Year’s right around the corner, you should be prepared to ring in 2022 with a kiss!
Kissing Under the Mistletoe
Kissing under a plant seems weird, right? So, how did this tradition come about? Well, mistletoe was initially viewed as an ancient fertility symbol!
Ancient Greeks and Druids noticed that mistletoe bloomed all year long and thought of it as a sign of virility. Mistletoe even makes an appearance in Norse mythology, with Frigga, the Norse goddess of love, declaring it a symbol of love, according to History.com.
According to Nature.org, Romans saw mistletoe as a symbol of peace and understanding, and during their annual Saturnalia celebration, ancient Romans kissed and made amends with enemies under sprigs of mistletoe hung in doorways.
Many ancient peoples also thought mistletoe had medicinal value, though we now know that some species are actually toxic!
Mistletoe’s associations with fertility and vitality continued through the Middle Ages. During this period, the plant became associated with love and romance.
During the 16th century, the English began using the plant as a Christmas decoration. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that the modern practice of kissing under the mistletoe started taking hold. At this point, it was common for couples to kiss under the mistletoe.
What Is Mistletoe Anyway?
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows on trees. Its leaves can be oblong or pointy, depending on the species. The plant includes small white or red “berries.” Sprigs of mistletoe grow attached to the branches of the host tree.
So, How Is Mistletoe Related to Christmas?
It makes sense that the evergreen mistletoe, like the firs we use as Christmas trees, would appear as part of our holiday decorations. While the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe was common during Victorian holiday celebrations in Europe, it wasn’t until author Washington Irving mentioned the practice in his 1820 book “The Sketch Book” that the practice became part of common Christmas decorations in the United States.
Are Your Lips Mistletoe Ready?
If you want to get kisses from someone special, you need to make sure your lips are kissable. If you want to have the perfect pout under the mistletoe, you need to take care of those lips! Here are some tips to follow:
1. Moisturize
Moisture is key to keeping your lips soft and supple. Make sure you use lip balm every day. Lip balm products will keep your lips hydrated and prevent dryness. Ask us about our favorites!
2. Exfoliate
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and dirt buildup. Use a gentle exfoliator such as sugar lip scrub or brown sugar mixed with olive oil. This can help improve the appearance of your lips. Be gentle; lip skin is delicate skin.
3. Apply Lipstick
Applying lipstick before going out is a great way to give yourself a boost. Lipsticks have moisturizing properties, so using them after washing your face can help keep your lips smooth and plump.
4. Drink Water
Drinking plenty of water is essential to keeping your lips hydrated. A lot of us don’t drink enough water throughout the day. So, try drinking at least eight glasses of water each day. This will help keep your lips looking healthy and youthful.
5. Eat Healthy Foods
Eating foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins will help nourish your lips. Try eating more fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are full of nutrients that promote good health.
6. Use Sunscreen.
Protect your lips; use sunscreen. Use a lip balm that contains a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. This will protect your lips from the damaging effects of the sun.
7. Get Professional Help
Sometimes we all need a little extra help getting our lips ready for kisses. In these situations, professional cosmetic treatments may be necessary. We suggest dermal fillers to help give your lips a boost this holiday season. Dermal fillers are a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of your lips without surgery. Learn more about what dermal fillers are best for your lips here.
8. Be Careful With Alcohol
Alcohol dries out your lips. So, if you plan on having a few drinks over the holidays, make sure you limit how often you consume alcohol. Also, avoid consuming alcohol within two hours of bedtime.
9. Avoid Smoking
Smoking has been linked to wrinkles and sagging lips. So, if possible, quit smoking.
Want kissable lips this holiday season? Schedule your appointment today.
