The Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Cracked Lips This Winter
Categories: Beauty
Many people fear that the coming winter months will bring with them dry, cracked lips. Our lips can suffer greatly from the cold, dry air, which depletes them of their natural moisture and leaves them feeling unpleasant and parched. It can be challenging to eat, speak, or even smile when you have severely cracked lips since they might even bleed.
Thankfully, there are some approaches you may take this winter to avoid and manage cracked lips. You can maintain healthy, plump, and soft lips throughout the winter with a little upkeep.
Why Do Lips Get Cracked in the Winter?
There are a number of reasons why lips are more prone to cracking in the winter. The most common culprit is cold, dry air. When the humidity level drops, as it does in the winter, the air draws moisture from your skin, including your lips. This can leave your lips feeling dry, tight, and uncomfortable.
Other factors that can contribute to cracked lips include:
©Licking your lips: While it may seem like a good way to moisturize your lips, licking them actually makes them drier in the long run. Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture with it.
©Using harsh soaps and detergents: These products can strip your lips of their natural oils.
©Exposing your lips to the elements: This includes wind, sun, and cold weather.
©Smoking: Smoking can constrict blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to your lips and make them more susceptible to cracking.
Preventing Cracked Lips
The best way to avoid cracked lips is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you keep your lips healthy and hydrated all winter long:
©Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your body and your lips hydrated from the inside out.
©Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air in your home, which can help prevent your lips from drying out.
©Apply lip balm regularly: Use a lip balm that contains occlusives, such as petroleum jelly or beeswax, to help seal in moisture. Apply lip balm throughout the day, especially before going outside.
©Choose the right lip balm: Avoid lip balms that contain fragrances or alcohol, as these can irritate your lips. Look for a lip balm that contains natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E.
©Exfoliate gently: Exfoliating your lips once or twice a week can help remove dead skin cells and make your lips smoother. Use a gentle lip scrub or a soft toothbrush.
©Protect your lips from the elements: When you're outdoors, wear a scarf or face mask to shield your lips from the wind and cold. If you'll be spending time in the sun, use a lip balm with SPF.
Treating Cracked Lips
If you do develop cracked lips, there are a few things you can do to treat them and relieve discomfort:
©Apply lip balm frequently: Keep your lips moisturized by applying lip balm throughout the day.
©Use a petroleum jelly-based product: Petroleum jelly is a great occlusive that can help seal in moisture.
©Avoid picking or biting your lips: This can make your lips worse.
©Use a warm compress: Apply a warm compress to your lips for a few minutes at a time to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
©Seek medical attention: If your lips are severely cracked or bleeding, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help prevent and treat cracked lips:
©Avoid smoking: Smoking can irritate your lips and make them more prone to cracking.
©Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your skin and lips healthy.
©Manage stress: Stress can contribute to dry skin and lips. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
©Be patient: It may take some time for your lips to heal completely. Be patient and continue to follow the tips above.
With a little care and attention, you can keep your lips soft, smooth, and healthy all winter long.