Ways To Treat Chapped, Dry Lips

Let’s begin by saying that common signs and symptoms include flaking or peeling skin on the lips, redness and irritation, tenderness or soreness, and occasional bleeding.

Chapped, dry lips can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but they can usually be managed effectively with the right care and attention. However, if you are experiencing discomfort or irritation due to your condition, it is important to take action right away to keep it from worsening and damaging your skin further.

Why do lips become chapped and dry?

Lips become chapped and dry due to various factors, including environmental conditions like cold weather, windy days, and dry climates, which strip away the protective layer of oil on the lips. Dehydration can also lead to dryness and cracking of the lips as well as certain medications.

Smoking can also weaken the skin’s ability to retain moisture and make lips more prone to becoming chapped and dry. In addition, Genetics may sometimes play a role in how easily lips become chapped and dry.

lip balm

How to get rid of chapped and dry?

Moisturizing

Start by keeping the area hydrated and moisturized. Then, apply a thin layer of lip balm or chapstick to your lips during the day and at night before bed. It will help to keep them from drying out. Look for formulas with natural ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and jojoba oil. Don’t forget to wear lip balm with SPF outdoors to protect against UV damage from the sun which can cause chapped and dry lips.

Exfoliating

Using a gentle lip scrub or exfoliating balm can help remove any stubborn flakes of skin clinging to the surface of your lips. By regularly exfoliating, you can also help keep your lips smooth and hydrated for longer by ensuring that your favorite lip balms and treatments can penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin.

Drink plenty of water

Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Dehydration can contribute to chapped and dry lips, so you must ensure you consume enough fluids.

Avoid sour and spicy foods

It can exacerbate the problem of chapped or dry lips. In addition, the acid and spices may cause further irritation to the already sensitive skin on your lips, making them feel even drier. Avoiding acidic and spicy foods will help you keep your lips moist and healthy.

Avoid licking your lips

It may seem like a quick and easy way to eliminate chapped and dry lips, but it can worsen the problem. Licking your lips introduces saliva onto the skin, which can further dry out the area and accentuate the appearance of flaky patches. Also, saliva contains bacteria that could lead to infections or even more irritation if ingested.

Hi, I’m Rita Logsdon!

Founder of GretaBean, certified child development therapist, certified teacher, author, wife to Steve, and mom to our four (wonderful) children. Here you’ll find encouragment, ideas, recipes, activities for kids, organizing tips, and anything else that can make your day a little better! 🙂

Contacts

Phone: 617-912-3176

3350 Rainy Day Drive
Boston, MA 02110