Chapped lips are not a look. Unfortunately, winter feels otherwise. Exposure to cold air and wind (outside) and dry air that is centrally heated (inside) can wreak havoc on the super thin skin that covers our lips, leaving them less-than-kissable. With winter sticking around for the next few months, here are some ways that you can protect your pout.
Lip Balm
It may seem entirely obvious, but yes, lip balm is the first step. And it should be applied often. Take a look at the ingredients on the tube—you want a salve that has emollient properties which smoothes the surface of the skin and locks in moisture. Lanolin and petroleum are both good but avoid anything with camphor or menthol as this can irritate them in their fragile state.
Sunscreen
You may associate SPF more with summertime, but it is just as important during winter. The skin on your lips is incredibly sensitive and can burn just as easily as other parts, so don’t forget to pucker up and apply sunscreen.
Don’t Lick or Pick
It is oh-so-tempting to pick at the little pieces of skin, but for the love of lipstick, please don’t. Pulling or biting will only damage the skin further and leave your lips more chapped. And while licking may seem like moisturizing, the enzymes in saliva actually dry out the skin.
Humidifier
Dry air can contribute to chapping, so bring a little moisture back by using a humidifier. The moist air should also help the rest of your skin and can even make it easier to breathe.
