Dry, chapped lips are the last thing anyone wants during winter. But unfortunately for many of us, freezing temperatures and gusty winds make this all too common problem unavoidable. However, despite how often dryness or chapping can occur when temperatures drop, there are steps you can take to both prevent and treat these uncomfortable symptoms.
This article will explore just what causes lips to become dry in cold weather and how simple solutions such as using quality lip balms with natural ingredients or avoiding prolonged exposure to wind can help keep your lips healthy even when the temperature drops.
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What Causes Dry, Chapped Lips?
Dry lips are an all too common problem, especially during the winter months. The weather we find ourselves in during the colder seasons can be incredibly harsh on the skin and lips, and while we can always put moisturiser on the areas of skin that have become dry and chapped, it is a bit trickier to do so with our lips.
One of the leading causes of dry, chapped lips is due to dehydration. Our bodies need water to survive, which applies to our skin; without enough hydration, the skin will often become drier than usual. Other factors, such as living in a place that experiences significant changes in temperatures or even certain medications, can also cause lips to become dry and uncomfortable.
To keep your lips looking healthy and moisturised all year round, there are specific steps you can take; drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep your body hydrated is essential for healthy skin, as are night-time lip masks or vegetable oil treatments. Taking these steps will help your lips retain moisture even during cold winter days.
What Can Be Done To Prevent Dry, Chapped Lips?
Preventing dry, chapped lips during the winter is much easier than treating them once they have already occurred. To protect your lips from becoming uncomfortable and irritated, it is crucial to ensure you are taking measures to help keep them hydrated.
Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated throughout the day. Consider investing in a quality lip balm with natural ingredients such as shea butter or beeswax which can act as a barrier on your skin and help keep moisture locked in. Avoiding prolonged exposure to the wind – especially when temperatures are low – is also vital; wearing a scarf over your mouth can provide extra protection if you go out for extended periods.
Why Use Natural Lip Balms?
Using natural lip balms is one of the most effective ways to protect against and prevent dry, chapped lips. Not only are these balms with natural ingredients such as shea butter or beeswax great for locking in moisture, but because they don’t contain any synthetic dyes or chemicals, they are much less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.
If you find that your lips have become dehydrated and chapped, then there are night-time treatments you can use before bed which contain more nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E oil or avocado butter. These lip masks help restore moisture to damaged skin while also providing antioxidants that can soothe inflammation.
How To Treat Dry, Chapped Lips?
If you already have dry, chapped lips, then there are various treatments you can use to soothe them. The first step is to avoid licking your lips; this may seem like a good idea at the moment, but saliva will end up drying out your skin more quickly as it contains enzymes that strip away lipids which help protect the skin from outside elements.
Using a gentle scrub such as an exfoliator or even just brushing your lips with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help remove any dead skin cells, whilst using natural lip balms will help lock moisture into the skin and keep it hydrated. If you’re looking for something extra nourishing, apply vegetable oil to your lips before bed.
Finally, it is essential to remember that treating dry, chapped lips requires long-term care and attention, so make sure you’re mindful of your lip care routine, as this will help keep them looking healthy all year round.
What Remedies May Help?
In addition to regular lip care, you can use a few home remedies to soothe and nourish dry, chapped lips. One remedy is to apply aloe vera gel or honey directly on the skin before going to bed to boost moisture levels overnight.
You can also try mixing ½ teaspoon of olive oil with one teaspoon of sugar and gently scrubbing this onto your lips for an exfoliating effect; this helps remove any dead skin cells while providing essential nutrients such as vitamin E, which aids in keeping lips healthy. Lastly, using a humidifier in your home can help relieve dryness and reduce irritation from the air around you.
By following these tips, you should be able to prevent and treat dry, chapped lips effectively.