How To Prevent And Treat Dry, Chapped Lips
Chapped lips are common during winter because of the cold, dry weather. Here is what we recommend to help you get back to soft, supple lips.
Use non-irritating lip balm and lipstick. Products that burn, sting, or feel uncomfortable are actually irritating your lips. It also helps to look for products that are fragrance free and hypoallergenic.
Apply lip moisturizing cream several times a day. If your lips are extremely dry and cracked, try a thick ointment, such as petroleum jelly. Ointment seals in water longer than waxes or oils.
Don’t forget SPF! Even in the winter,the sun can burn chapped lips more easily. This could cause cold sores. Use lip balms that contains SPF 30 or higher. While outdoors, apply the lip balm every 2 hours.
Drink plenty of water. Chapped lips are dry lips, so you want to stay hydrated.
Stop licking, biting, and picking at your lips. When lips feel dry, it may feel natural to wet them by licking them, but this can worsen the problem.
When to see a dermatologist?
Your chapped lips could be caused by something aside from dry weather. An allergic reaction, yeast infection, or something more serious can make your lips feel dry and uncomfortable. Most of the time, self-care can heal dry, chapped lips in 2 to 3 weeks. If it doesn’t, make an appointment with our office.
If you would like to schedule a consultation, you can contact Western Maryland Dermatology at (301) 777-7900 or visit us online at wmderma.com/contact where you can chat with one of our reservation specialists.
Source: www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/heal-dry-chapped-lips