Chapped, dry lips can be an issue for many of us, at many times of the year. It’s an uncomfortable problem, and doesn’t present our best appearance, either. Exposure to wind, sun and other drying atmospheric effects can rob your lips of necessary moisture, causing them to become red, flaky and sore. At worst they can crack and even begin to bleed. Put the kibosh on chapped lips with these tips.
The truth about waxy lip balms
Many people reach for the lip balm as a remedy for chapped lips. The fact of the matter is, waxy lip balms are useful for preventing chapped lips, not treating them. Applying a waxy lip balm to dry, chapped lips may cause them to feel smooth and slick, giving you the illusion of hydration, but it’s actually sealing moisture out.
Treat your lips well
A wiser option to prevent and cure chapped lips is to use lip moisturisers which offer protective and therapeutic properties. Evolu has two Healing Lip Treatments to choose from which offer these benefits – one which has the extra protection of an SPF15 sunscreen, and one without.
Both are gentle, lightweight treatments that combine the proven anti-microbial properties of New Zealand Manuka honey with the nourishing abilities of Thyme and Rosemary, a balanced combination of natural actives that work to soothe, repair and soften the delicate skin of the lips. They apply easily and absorb readily, and their light consistency allows them to fully penetrate the dermis for a more effective treatment. They can be used regularly but sparingly throughout the day and because they’re not waxy and are so easily absorbed, you can wear them comfortably under lipstick.
Get your vitamins
Deficiencies in B vitamins, essential fatty acids or iron can cause your lips to scale and crack at the corners. Consult your doctor if you feel you may be deficient, and be sure to take the recommended vitamin or mineral supplement regularly.
Avoid lipsticks that dry out your lips. You also could be allergic to the dyes in your lipstick, so stick to a creamy, moisturising neutral gloss for a while.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your body – and your lips – well hydrated. Increase your uptake of water in winter months when forced air heating can dry out your lips further. Use a humidifier if necessary, for the sake of your lips and your skin in general.
Stop licking your chops
Licking your lips only causes further dryness and chapping. Also, don’t bite or pick at your lips, as this will further exacerbate the problem by removing your lips’ protective covering. If these habits are persistent, someone close to you, family or friend, may be able to help remind you.
Breathe through your nose
Breathing through your mouth can cause your lips to dry out further. If you have trouble breathing through your nose you may need to consider a decongestant or hayfever remedy. Mouth breathing also robs your lungs of the moisturizing, filtering effect your nose imparts to the air you take in.