Winter Is Coming:How To Care For Your Lips This Coming Season

Winter brings a festive charm with snow-draped landscapes and cozy evenings, but it also brings its fair share of challenges for our skin, especially our lips. The cold, dry air and biting winds are notorious for causing dry, chapped lips that can be both uncomfortable and unsightly. Without proper care, this dryness can escalate into cracking, bleeding, or even triggering cold sores. Here’s a comprehensive guide on why lips suffer during winter and how you can care for them, keeping them soft and supple throughout the season cold and dry.

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Why Do Lips Become Dry in Winter?

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Our lips are particularly vulnerable during winter due to several reasons:

• Exposure to Elements: Unlike most of our skin, lips are often left uncovered, making them directly exposed to cold winds and low temperatures.
• Lack of Oil Glands: Lips lack sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, which means they can’t produce natural oils to keep them moisturized.
• Low Humidity: Winter air, both outdoors and indoors (thanks to heating systems), tends to have very low humidity. This lack of moisture dries out the lips faster.
• Habits Like Lip Licking: While it might seem soothing at the moment, licking your lips strips away natural moisture, leaving them even drier.

Understanding these factors is the first step in protecting your lips.

How to Care for Your Lips This Winter

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Taking care of dry lips during the colder months of winter doesn’t require a complicated routine. Incorporate these practical tips into your routine to keep your lips hydrated and healthy.

#1. Use a Quality Lip Balm Regularly

Lip balm is your lips’ best friend during winter. Opt for products with hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, petroleum jelly, and ceramides. Avoid balms containing irritating ingredients such as menthol, camphor, eucalyptus, and added fragrances, as they can worsen dryness and irritation. Apply lip balm several times a day and always before going to bed.

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#2. Don’t Skip the SPF

Many people underestimate the impact of winter sun on their skin, including their lips. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow, causing damage. Choose a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to protect your lips from harmful UV rays.

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#3. Stay Hydrated

Hydration starts from within. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain overall skin moisture, including that of your lips. Herbal teas or warm water with lemon can be soothing alternatives during chilly days.

#4. Avoid Picking or Licking Your Lips

It’s tempting to pick at flaky skin or lick your lips when they feel dry, but these habits only worsen the problem. Picking can lead to painful cracks, while licking strips away moisture, leaving your lips drier than before. Keep a lip balm handy to resist the urge.

#5. Invest in a Humidifier

Central heating systems can strip indoor air of moisture, contributing to dryness. A humidifier restores moisture to the air, benefiting not just your lips but also your skin and respiratory health.

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#6. Exfoliate Gently

If your lips are very flaky, use a gentle lip scrub made of sugar and honey or a soft-bristled toothbrush to exfoliate. This removes dead skin, allowing moisturizing products to penetrate better. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate your lips.

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Managing Cold Sores During Winter

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While dry lips don’t directly cause cold sores, irritation can act as a trigger, especially for individuals prone to them. To minimize the risk:

• Keep your lips moisturized to avoid cracks where the herpes simplex virus can thrive.
• Protect your lips from sun exposure with SPF lip balms.
• Avoid sharing lip products or utensils, as cold sores are contagious.

If you experience frequent cold sore outbreaks, consult a healthcare professional for antiviral treatments or preventive measures.

DIY Remedies for Lip Care

Photo: Exclusive Beauty Hub

You don’t need to rely solely on store-bought products to keep your lips healthy. Try these natural remedies:

• Coconut Oil: A natural emollient, coconut oil provides deep hydration and forms a protective barrier.
• Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties, honey soothes and heals cracked lips.
• Aloe Vera: Aloe’s anti-inflammatory and hydrating qualities make it perfect for soothing chapped lips.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

The best way to avoid winter lip woes is by adopting preventive measures. Be consistent with moisturizing, shield your lips from harsh elements by wearing a scarf, and ensure you’re taking care of your overall health with proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins.