WHAT CAUSES DRY LIPS?
Before we delve into how to keep your lips hydrated, let's understand the common causes of dry lips:
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, which can affect your entire body, including your lips.
Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can damage the delicate skin of your lips, leading to dryness and chapping.
Harsh weather conditions: Cold, dry air in the winter and hot, humid air in the summer can both take a toll on your lips, causing them to lose moisture.
Licking and biting lips: Licking your lips may seem like a natural way to keep them moist, but it worsens dryness. Saliva evaporates quickly, taking away moisture from your lips. Biting your lips can also cause damage and irritation.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as retinoids and chemotherapy drugs, can cause dry lips as a side effect.
Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as eczema and allergies, can also lead to dry lips.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR LIPS HYDRATED
Now that we know the causes of dry lips, let's explore some simple yet effective ways to keep your lips hydrated:
Drink Water
Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, and it also plays a significant role in lip hydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Wear Sun Protection
Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. Apply SPF before heading outdoors, and reapply throughout the day, especially if you're spending extended periods in the sun.
Avoid Licking and Biting Lips
As tempting as it may be, avoid licking and biting your lips. These habits can further dry out your lips and cause irritation.
Exfoliate Lips Gently
Once or twice a week, gently exfoliate your lips to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This will help your lips look smoother and feel softer. You can make your own lip scrub by mixing sugar with honey or olive oil.
Apply Moisturizing Lip Products
Using a good lip balm or lip moisturizer is essential for keeping your lips hydrated and healthy. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, or hyaluronic acid, which are known for their moisturizing properties. Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm is a great option, as it provides long-lasting hydration for up to 8 hours. It comes in a variety of shades, including Quenched, Cherry Me, and Pink Punch, so you can find the perfect one to match your style. For even more intense moisturizing, try Dr. Rescue Medicated Lip Balm.