There are many environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and health conditions that can affect lip moisture, one of the biggest and preventable causes of chapped lips is lip licking.
Cold temps and chapped lips also seem to go hand-in-hand as well. Dermatological experts agree that the best way to treat dry and cracked lips is to use a product that can help maintain and seal in hydration.
So, what can you do to avoid chapped lips? Try going the natural route with ingredients found in your kitchen to ensure smooth and hydrated lips all winter long.
There are several effective natural remedies for chapped lips that you can find right in your kitchen.
To soothe and moisturize chapped lips, apply the following directly to the lips:
- Aloe vera: This gel forms inside the leaves of aloe vera plants. It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatories that soothe and hydrate skin that has been damaged.
- Coconut oil: This antimicrobial oil made from the flesh of coconuts battles inflammation and is an emollient that soothes and smoothes the skin.
- Honey: It is highly moisturizing, which makes it a good treatment for dry lips. Honey also contains antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which help prevent infections from developing in extremely dry or cracked lips.
- Cucumber: It can gently moisturize the lips and may contain vitamins and minerals that could improve the lips’ appearance.
- Green tea: Rich in antioxidants and minerals, green tea also contains polyphenols, which reduce inflammation. Soak a bag of green tea in warm water and gently rub it over the lips to soften and remove excess dry skin. This technique is more gentle than traditional exfoliation.