“
Have you ever wondered why lips are so special? They're not just for smiling and eating—lips have amazing abilities that make them one of the most unique parts of our body. From tasting delicious foods to helping us talk and even protecting our teeth, there's so much to discover about these colorful, sensitive, and versatile body parts. Join us as we explore 15 delightful facts about lips that will spark your curiosity and bring a smile to your face!1
1
”
Your lips don’t have sweat glands and don’t produce protective oils. This makes them more vulnerable to dryness and external elements. Unlike other areas of the skin, your lips rely on external moisturization to stay hydrated.1
Lips tend to heal more quickly than other parts of the body. This is partly due to their rich blood supply and the fact that they are constantly exposed to moisture from saliva, which helps in faster healing of minor cuts and sores.2
Isaac Johnson from the US holds the Guinness World Record for the largest mouth gape, measuring 10.196 cm (4.014 in). This record was officially recognized on March 8, 2024. His remarkable achievement showcases an extraordinary ability.
While still in its early stages, researchers are exploring the possibility of embedding sensors into lipstick. These sensors could monitor various health indicators, such as hydration levels, skin temperature, and even detect early signs of certain diseases.3
Hippos have incredibly large and thick lips that can be up to 20 inches (50 cm) wide. Their lips are essential for their feeding habits, allowing them to graze on grass and manage their aquatic environment effectively.
Lips lack oil glands, making them more prone to dryness compared to other skin areas. Without these glands, they can't produce natural oils, so they need regular hydration and protection from environmental factors like wind and sun to stay healthy and moist.4
The first known lip surgery dates back to ancient India around 600 BCE. Sushruta, an early surgeon, documented techniques for repairing cleft lips and other lip deformities using skin grafts. His methods laid the groundwork for modern plastic surgery.5
Kristina Rei has the world’s largest lips, achieved through multiple silicone injections. Inspired by Jessica Rabbit from the 1988 movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, you can decide if she succeeded in reaching her goal.
Men are more likely than women to develop mouth cancer. This increased risk is attributed to various factors, including lifestyle choices and environmental exposures. Statistically, men experience higher rates of this condition compared to their female counterparts.6
The record for the most kisses in one minute is 277, set by Cherry Yoshitake (Mr. Cherry) and Kumiko Shiratori in Osaka on August 8, 2020. This attempt was part of the 50th anniversary of Shinkon-san Irasshai..7
Advanced lip-reading technology uses machine learning algorithms to interpret spoken words by analyzing the movement of lips. This technology has applications in enhancing communication for those with hearing impairments and improving voice recognition systems.8
The bump in the center of your upper lip has a specific name: the philtrum. This area is a natural feature formed during fetal development. It plays a role in facial expression and aesthetics.9
The most pierced man is Rolf Buchholz from Dortmund, Germany, with a total of 453 piercings as of August 5, 2010. His piercings include 158 around his lips, 16 in his right ear, 15 in his left ear, and 278 in the genital area, among others.
The largest collection of lip balms, totaling 3,388 items, was achieved by 6-year-old Scarlett Ashley Cheng in Hong Kong SAR, China, on April 24, 2021. Scarlett, who finds joy in collecting, also enjoys DIYing lip balms with her sister Kaylyn at home.
Your lips are about 100 times more sensitive than your fingertips. This heightened sensitivity is due to the dense network of nerve endings in your lips. As a result, they are particularly responsive to touch and temperature changes.10
