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As winter wraps its chilly embrace around us, many find themselves facing a common adversary — chapped lips. The biting cold and dry air can wreak havoc on our delicate lip skin, leaving them dry, cracked, and often painful.
While most of us resort to licking our lips with saliva in hopes of restoring its moisture, this habit can do more harm than good. So, to ensure our lips stay soft and supple even in the coldest months, we turned to an expert for advice on winter lip care.
Chapped lips during winter season are typically caused due to a combination of factors, including cold temperatures, low humidity and the habit of licking one’s lips. “This trifecta strips the natural oils from the skin, leading to dehydrated, chapped lips,” Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, consultant, dermatology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explained.
Here are some tips to combat the dreaded chapping of lips during the colder months:
*Hydration is key: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the body’s overall hydration levels, preventing the lips from drying out. Additionally, using a humidifier in your living space can add moisture to the air.
*Exfoliate: Regular exfoliation is essential for removing dry, flaky skin from the lips. A homemade lip scrub using a mix of sugar and honey can work wonders. Remember not to over-exfoliate.
*Lip balms: Invest in good-quality, moisturising lip balms, containing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter or cocoa butter. Keep it handy and apply it throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors.
*Avoid licking your lips: While it may be a natural instinct, licking your lips can actually worsen the situation. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips drier than before. Instead, opt for protective measures like using a scarf or a turtleneck to shield your lips from the cold wind.
*DIY overnight treatments: Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly or a hydrating lip mask before bedtime. This allows the product to work its magic overnight, deeply moisturising your lips and preventing overnight dryness.
With a touch of TLC, you can bid farewell to chapped lips this winter season. “If chapped lips persist despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult a dermatologist. Persistent chapping can be a sign of an underlying issue that requires professional guidance,” Dr Lall concluded.
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