The Ultimate Guide to Preventing and Treating Chapped Lips This Winter
As winter rolls in, many experience the discomfort of dry, chapped lips. This issue can be especially persistent, leading to unpleasant sensations and even pain. Understanding the root causes and finding effective solutions is key to maintaining healthy lips throughout the colder months. We’ve consulted with board-certified dermatologists to provide you with expert advice on preventing chapped lips, the harmful ingredients to avoid in lip products, and the best balms for hydration.
Understanding Chapped Lips: What Causes Them?
To effectively combat chapped lips, it’s essential to know what triggers this condition. According to Dr. Janine Hopkins, a dermatologist from Southlake, TX, lips do not possess oil glands, which prevents them from retaining moisture like the skin on your face. Cold temperatures, low humidity, and other winter conditions can disrupt the natural barrier of the lips, leading to dryness and inflammation. However, environmental factors aren’t the sole culprits. Dr. Hopkins highlights that certain ingredients in lip products, habitual lip licking, excessive exfoliation, and allergies can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, medications and underlying skin conditions, as noted by Miami dermatologist Dr. Anna Chacon, are also common contributors to chronic lip dryness.
The Pitfalls of Certain Lip Balms
While many turn to lip balms for relief during winter, not all formulations are beneficial. Some might offer a fleeting sense of hydration while actually worsening the condition in the longer term. Ingredients like menthol, camphor, and alcohol create a temporary cooling sensation but do not repair the skin’s barrier, potentially leading to “rebound dryness.” Dr. Chacon advises being cautious of long-lasting lipstick formulas, especially when lips are already suffering from dryness. It’s essential to choose products that genuinely moisturize rather than just mask the problem.
Essential Ingredients for Hydrating Lip Balms
For effective hydration, dermatologist-recommended lip balms should contain specific ingredients that support the skin’s barrier and promote healing. Seek out formulations with emollients like shea butter, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, which help lock in moisture. According to Dr. Chacon, consistently applying a quality lip balm, especially before bed, can significantly reduce inflammation and prevent further moisture loss. In addition to moisturizing agents, look for SPF protection to shield lips from UV rays, as sun damage can worsen dryness.
Top Dermatologist-Recommended Lip Balms
Navigating the myriad of lip products available can be challenging. To simplify your search, here are recommended products from dermatologists:
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Avène Cicalfate Lip Restorative Balm: Dr. Hopkins endorses this balm for its soothing ingredients and ability to repair compromised lips.
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La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lip Balm: A lightweight, fragrance-free option promoted by Dr. Chacon, effective for soothing irritation.
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Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: Ideal for overnight care, this balm features coconut oil and shea butter, making hydration feel indulgent.
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EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF 31: This non-greasy balm provides broad-spectrum sun protection while keeping lips moisturized.
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Aquaphor Healing Ointment: A favorite for layering at night, noted by Dr. Chacon, although caution is suggested for those with lanolin allergies.
- Dr. Dan’s CortiBalm: Recommended for severe dryness, especially for patients on medications like Accutane, this balm combines multiple hydrating ingredients.
Taking Preventive Measures
In addition to choosing the right products, it’s crucial to adopt habits that help prevent chapped lips. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water can make a significant difference, as well as using a humidifier indoors to combat dry air. Avoiding habits like lip licking can help maintain the lips’ moisture. Regularly exfoliating the lips with gentle scrubs can also prevent dead skin buildup, but it’s important not to overdo it, as this can lead to further irritation.
Conclusion: Embrace Healthy Lips This Winter
Dry, chapped lips don’t have to ruin your winter experience. By understanding the causes and knowing which ingredients to avoid, you can choose solutions that truly work. Make sure to incorporate dermatologist-recommended products into your skincare routine and adopt preventive measures for the best results.
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This article is based on reporting from NewBeauty.
The original version of the story can be found on their website.
Original Source:
The Best Lip Balms for Chapped Lips, According to Dermatologists
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