Dry chapped lips are ugly and painful and open to infection. Compared to the rest of your body, the skin on your lips is very thin. This slim layer of protection leaves lips fragile, sensitive, and prone to dryness.
What to do?
Although most commonly seen in cold weather, dry lips can occur anytime of the year. Follow the simple steps below to heal your chapped lips now...
- Drink lots of water
Staying hydrated is one of the kindest things you can do for your lips, your skin, and your body. The general recommendation is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses (approximately 1.9 liters) of water each day. Milk, juice, and other fluids count toward the daily requirement, but pure water should make up the bulk of your fluids.
- No Lip Licking
Did you know your own saliva can be a hazard? Yes, it's true. Saliva contains chemicals that decrease your natural oils. It may be hard, but try not to lick.
- Exfoliate
Removing dead skin cells will go a long way towards healing. Take a soft-bristled toothbrush, wet it... then dip it in baking soda (bicarbonate of soda). Next, gently massage your lips with the brush and the baking soda, using a circular motion. Follow with an application of lip balm. (Substitute a lip scrub for the baking soda, if you prefer).Exfoliate two to three times a week.
- Use lip balm daily
it's soothing and healing. Once healed, it will protect from further damage. I recommend using all natural lip balm. Remember, a portion of what you put on your lips will end up in your stomach. It's unavoidable... and who wants to eat chemicals?
- Determine the cause
If you can eliminate, or minimize, potential offenders, your condition will improve. These are the known culprits...* Dry and/or cold weather. * Heated or air-conditioned indoor air. * An allergy to a particular lipstick, mouthwash, or toothpaste. * Medications, particularly acne medication. * Skin disorders, such as eczema. * A deficiency of proper nutrients, especially the B vitamins and vitamin E. Talk with your physician.
Here's a recipe for an exfoliator you can make at home...
Easy Lip Scrub:
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
Mix thoroughly and Store in a tightly covered container.
To use: put a small amount dab on your finger. Then gently massage lips. Rinse off and immediately apply lip balm. Do this just before bed... you'll be amazed how smooth your lips are in the morning!
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