This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
Published on July 18, 2019, this article sheds light on the common issue of chapped lips, exploring the underlying causes and providing practical solutions for prevention and treatment.
Soft, luscious lips are a universal desire, but for many, this dream remains elusive. Despite drinking litres of water and applying petroleum jelly, chapped lips persist. So, what's behind this persistent problem?
One major contributor is the weather. During periods of low humidity, the air is dry, causing lips to dry out. Conversely, humid periods can lead to excessive sweating, which dehydrates the body and dries out the lips.
Another culprit is excessive licking of the lips. While it may seem counterintuitive, constantly licking your lips strips them of moisture, leading to further dryness.
Certain medications can also cause dry, chapped lips as a side effect. If symptoms persist, it's essential to consult with a doctor.
To treat and prevent chapped lips, try the following:
- Apply lip balm throughout the day to keep lips moisturized.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Use a humidifier at home or wrap your mouth with a scarf during the cold season.
- Apply a lip balm with a minimum SPF 15 before heading outdoors to protect against sun damage.
- Exfoliate your lips once a week with a sugar scrub to remove dead skin cells.