Top 4 Reasons for Dry Lips and How to Fix It / Face Care

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Dry Lips can be so uncomfortable and painful and the last thing you want to do is let anything touch them. It's a challenge even knowing what caused your dry, cracked lips and what to do to help soothe them. Well, I've got you covered.

Causes

Dry lips can be caused by many factors, including: lifestyle habits, environmental conditions, and certain underlying health issues. Below are some common reasons you may have dry lips:

Weather

Dry, cold weather can deplete moisture from your skin and lips and this could lead to dryness and chapping. On the opposite end, exposure to sunny, hot weather can also cause dryness due to sun damage.

Dehydration

It's extremely important to get enough water daily. Insufficient water intake can result in your body's overall dehydration and this includes your lips. Hydration is essential for maintaining healthy lips.

Licking or Biting Lips

I know this one is a challenge for those of us that pick and bite our lips, but frequently licking or biting your lips can increase dryness by removing its natural moisture and exposing them to even more irritation.

Allergies or Irritants

Allergies can also cause dryness in your lips. Reactions to food ingredients, lip care products, and lipsticks can cause dryness, redness, and irritation on your lips.

Solutions

Consider the following products and practices to help with your dry lips:

Lip Balm

Look for a lip balm that contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or natural oils. The best process is to apply it regularly throughout the day to keep your lips moisturized and protected from further dryness.

Exfoliation

You can also try gently exfoliating your lips. Exfoliating can help remove the dry, flaky skin from your lips. For this, you can use either a soft toothbrush or a lip scrub to gently massage your lips to remove dead skin cells. Make sure to follow exfoliating with a moisturizing lip balm.

Hydration

Try to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Hydration is a great way to prevent and alleviate dry lips. Having a water bottle that you can take with you anywhere can help to ensure you always have water nearby. In addition, there are water bottles that will help you keep track of how much water you drink throughout the day so it makes it easier to track.

Sun Protection

Before you go out in the sun, it is a good idea to apply a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun damage and dryness. If you plan to be in the sun for a long time or be exposed to wind and cool weather, it is a good idea to reapply.

Avoid Irritating Substances

Be sure to read the ingredients in lip care products before purchasing to avoid using products that contain potential irritants or allergens that may worsen dryness or cause an allergic reaction. Sometimes, we don't know if we are allergic to an ingredient until we are exposed to it, but once you show signs of an allergy, you should discontinue use and consult a professional.

Humidifier

If the air in your home or office is dry, try using a humidifier. Humidifiers can help to add moisture to the air and this can benefit not only your lips, but also your skin and overall well-being. Some humidifiers allow you to use essential oils to add a nice smell to your space as well. Who doesn't love a nice, calming smell?

If your lip dryness persists or if you have severe symptoms, including: persistent pain, bleeding, or the condition worsens despite using lip care products, it's advised to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for further evaluation and guidance.