For many people, winter skin probably conjures up images of dry, cracked hands, flaky skin and dry lips. And while it may seem like dry, chapped lips are something you'll have to live with until spring, it's possible to have soft, supple lips all year round by following a few simple steps.
Cold, dry weather; sun damage; and licking your lips often are just some of the reasons your lips may feel dry and cracked this winter. Understanding these causes and anything else that could be causing your chapped lips will go a long way in preventing and treating them.
Look for lip balms, lipsticks, and other lip products that contain ingredients such as castor seed oil, ceramides, dimethicone, or mineral oil. Make sure your lip product is also labeled "fragrance-free" and "hypoallergenic." Avoid ingredients such as camphor, menthol, or eucalyptus, which can irritate your lips. If your lips burn, sting, or tingle after using a lip product, stop using that product.
Apply lip balm throughout the day and before going to bed. If your lips are very dry and cracked, try a thick ointment, such as petroleum jelly or cocoa butter. Ointment seals in moisture longer than wax or oil.
Apply a lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outside, even in winter. Look for a lip balm with titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide and reapply every two hours outdoors.
Drink plenty of water and use a humidifier at home, especially in your bedroom while you sleep.
If your lips feel dry, it may feel natural to wet them by licking them, but this can make the problem worse. If you find yourself licking your lips, apply a non-irritating lip balm.
Everyday items such as paper clips, jewelry and reusable metal straws can irritate your lips.
Cracked lips are usually harmless, but sometimes they can be a sign of a medical condition. If your dry, chapped lips don't heal after following these tips for two to three weeks, contact your doctor.
