Why Lips Get Dry and How to Care for Them Properly

Lips are uniquely vulnerable to dryness and cracking because they lack oil glands, unlike the rest of the skin. This makes them more prone to moisture loss and environmental damage.

Common Causes of Dry Lips:

• Weather Exposure: Cold, windy, or dry air strips moisture from the lips. Sun exposure also causes damage and dryness.

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water reduces overall skin hydration, including lips.

• Lip Licking: Saliva evaporates quickly, taking moisture with it and making lips even drier.

• Irritating Products: Some lipsticks, balms, or toothpaste ingredients can cause allergic reactions or dryness.

• Vitamin Deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins like B-complex can contribute to chapped lips.

How to Care for Dry Lips:

1. Stay Hydrated:
   Drink adequate water throughout the day to maintain internal hydration.

2. Use a Nourishing Lip Balm:
   Choose balms with moisturizing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid. Avoid balms with menthol or camphor which can irritate lips.

3. Protect Lips from the Sun:
   Use lip balms with SPF 15 or higher to prevent UV damage and sunburn on lips.

4. Avoid Lip Licking:
   Try to break the habit to prevent moisture loss.

5. Exfoliate Gently:
   Occasionally remove dead skin using a soft lip scrub or a damp cloth to keep lips smooth and allow better balm absorption.

6. Consider Nutritional Support:
   Maintain a balanced diet with vitamins important for skin health, or consult a healthcare provider if deficiencies are suspected.