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Find yourself constantly trying to battle dry lips? Then you’ll know it’s not just a winter thing; it can be a daily struggle all year round for some people. But what are the main causes, and how can you really keep your lips looking lush all year round? From getting to the root of the problem to finding the perfect lip balm and making good habits, we've got your lips covered…
Understanding dry lips: Symptoms and causes
Dry lips can be a real hassle, often triggered by factors like weather conditions, dehydration, or certain habits. So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of why your lips are acting up.
Symptoms of dry lip
Here are some of the most common symptoms you may experience on or around your lips:
- Dryness
- Scales
- Flaking
- Cracks
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Soreness
Causes of dry lips
Did you know that, unlike other parts of our skin, our lips don’t contain oil glands? This makes them more vulnerable to becoming dry and chapped. And that’s before they get exposed to the elements, which can dry them out even more...
Why do my lips dry out in summer?
Summer sun and dry heat can be brutal on your lips. They can get sunburned, just like the rest of our skin, which can result in redness, swelling, and pain.
Plus, chronic sun exposure over the years can cause your lips to develop a skin condition called actinic cheilitis. It usually affects your lower lip skin, making it dry, thin and fragile with thickened sores.
Why do my lips dry out in winter?
Winter's dry chill air and indoor heating strip away your lips' natural moisture. This is because skin tends to mimic the moisture levels of the environment around it.
Should I lick my lips if they’re dry?
Licking dry lips feels like the natural way to give them some moisture, right? Wrong! Too much saliva can irritate thin and delicate lip skin. It can also lead to a condition called lip licker’s dermatitis, which can cause dryness, scaling, and chronic redness on and around the lips.
Tips for preventing dry lips in different seasons
Now you have an idea of what may be causing your dry lips, it’s time to discover which remedies can bring your pout back to life.
How to prevent dry lips in winter
Combat dry winter lips by keeping indoor humidity levels up: Dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara recommends using a humidifier. Plus, apply a rich, hydrating lip balm regularly.
How to prevent dry lips in summer
Stay hydrated, seek shade, and use a sunscreen SPF 30 or higher to shield your lips from harmful UV rays.
How to prevent dry lips all year round
Winter brings biting winds and indoor heating, which can leave your lips parched. Combat the cold with the best lip balm for dry lips, such as the handy, pocket-sized Vaseline® Lip Therapy Original Mini, and shield your lips from the elements.
In summer, excessive sun exposure can also lead to dryness — so make sure you apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your lips. Then, once it’s absorbed into your skin, follow with a moisturizing lip balm.
For the in-between seasons, maintain a consistent lip care routine to adapt to ever-changing weather conditions.
Read next: Different Ways to Use Vaseline® Jelly
How can I prevent my lips from cracking?
Cracked lips can be prevented by staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions.
What can I include in my everyday routine to prevent dry lips?
Maintain soft lips with these daily habits:
4 daily habits for maintaining soft lips
- Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and lips hydrated. - Exfoliate gently
Exfoliate your lips once or twice a week using a mild scrub to remove dead skin cells. - Don’t pick, bite, or lick your lips
As we mentioned above, licking your lips can make your lips drier. And it goes without saying, don’t pick or bite them either! - Slather your lips with SPF and a non-irritating lip balm before going outside
Whether it’s sunny or super chilly outside, make sure you apply sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher to your lips. Once they've dried, slather them with a generous layer of high-quality lip balm to help keep your pout protected and hydrated.
Read next: How to Help Heal Dry Lips
Choosing the right lip balm
Here’s the criteria for the best lip balm for dry lips:
Ingredients matter: Key components for dry lip relief
Look for lip balms with ingredients like ceramides, cocoa butter, and petroleum jelly for intense hydration. Give Vaseline® Lip Therapy® Advanced Healing Tube, a go to help relieve dry, chapped lips.
Hydration: Moisturizing elements for lasting relief
Use lip balms with occlusive ingredients like petroleum jelly to soothe and heal dry lips. Try our Vaseline® Lip Therapy® Original Tin for long-lasting moisture and healthy-looking lips, whatever the season.
Allergen awareness: Selecting lip balms for sensitivity
If you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic lip balms to avoid irritation.
Texture and application: Finding a comfortable fit
Choose a lipstick with a texture you love – whether it's a rich balm, a smooth gloss, or a lightweight serum. Comfort is key.
Long-lasting solutions: Balms for extended dry lip protection
Invest in long-lasting lip balms for continuous hydration, so you don’t have to worry about reapplying them so often.
Common mistakes that aggravate dry lips and how to avoid them
Neglecting lip exfoliation
Regular exfoliation removes dead skin, preventing chapping. Use a lip scrub for dry lips or a soft, clean toothbrush to gently exfoliate your lips.
Forgetting internal hydration
Remember, hydration starts from within. Drink enough water and eat water-rich foods to keep your lips plump and hydrated.
The impact of diet on lip health: Foods for hydration
Include these hydrating foods in your diet:
- Omega-rich sources: Fish, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
- Water-packed fruits: Watermelon, cucumber, and berries.
When to seek professional help for persistent lip dryness
If your lips persistently stay dry despite trying various remedies, it's time to consult a dermatologist. Underlying issues like allergies or skin conditions might be at play.
Read next: Solving the Mystery of Dry Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
So, when it comes to tackling dry lips, there are a number of things to keep in mind; figure out the causes, adopt preventive measures, choose the right lip balm, and embrace healthy habits. Say goodbye to the dry lip drama and hello to a vibrant, well-moisturized pout!
These articles provide general tips and information about improving skin health. They have been written by health and beauty writers. They have not been written by health care professionals and, as such, don’t constitute medical advice. If you have a serious skin condition, please consult a medical professional.
