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Tips and Tricks

Your lips are cracked and dry. Here's how to heal chapped lips.

Maryal Miller Carter
USA TODAY

Cold weather always brings its own set of challenges, and one common winter woe is the discomfort of dry and chapped lips. Bitter cold, harsh winds and indoor heating can strip delicate skin of its moisture, leaving lips parched and prone to cracking. Ouch! 

Fortunately, there's a wealth of science-based strategies to rescue your lips from winter's grasp. From avoiding common lip balm blunders to strategic product application to hydrating from the inside out, we’re unveiling the secrets that can help you achieve and maintain lusciously moisturized lips. Here are the expert tips you need to heal dry and chapped lips in the cold winter months.

Watch the video above to learn how to heal dry and chapped lips.

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The best tips to heal dry and chapped lips

  • Use lip balm or ointment throughout the day, but be careful to avoid overdoing it. Overapplication may lead to dependency, hindering the natural moisture balance of your lips.
  • Double moisturize your lips overnight. Start with a gentle chemical exfoliant instead of a harsh sugar scrub, followed by a lip mask. If a lip mask isn't available, 100% petroleum jelly or a healing ointment with hyaluronic acid and ceramides can be used to lock in moisture. Hyaluronic acid is used to boost hydration, to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and to promote a more youthful-looking complexion. Ceramides contribute to maintaining the skin barrier's integrity.
  • Hydrate your lips before applying lipstick. Ensuring your lips are moisturized creates a smoother canvas for lipstick application.
  • Recognize the significance of hydration. Proper hydration helps maintain the health and appearance of the skin on your lips.
  • Select a lip balm with SPF to protect against sun damage, which can dry out the skin.
  • Refrain from licking, picking or biting your lips. These habits can exacerbate dryness and lead to irritation.
  • Utilize a humidifier in the dry winter season. Adding moisture to the air helps prevent your lips from becoming overly dry in harsh weather conditions.
  • Incorporate lip care into your morning and nighttime skincare routine. By integrating lip care into both routines, you ensure continuous hydration, protection and support for the delicate skin on your lips, promoting long-term health and preventing issues such as dryness or chapping.

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