How to Heal Chapped Lips and Prevent Future Cracks
We’ll be honest: dealing with chapped lips can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and downright frustrating. Whether your lips feel dry and flaky or you’re experiencing painful cracks, figuring out how to heal chapped lips effectively takes a bit of trial and error. The good news? You’ve come to the right place. Ahead, we’ll explore everything you need to know about treating and preventing chapped lips—from recognizing the causes to building a simple (but effective) lip care routine. Along the way, we’ll share some tried-and-true tips and product recommendations to help keep your lips smooth, hydrated, and healthy.
What Causes Chapped Lips?
Chapped lips, or cheilitis, occur when your lips lose moisture and become dry, cracked, or flaky. Unlike the rest of your skin, your lips lack oil glands, which makes them more prone to dehydration and environmental damage. Here are some common culprits behind chapped lips:
1. Weather Changes
Cold, dry air in the winter and exposure to the sun’s UV rays in the summer can both lead to chapped lips. Wind can also exacerbate dryness by stripping away natural moisture.
2. Licking Your Lips
It might feel soothing in the moment, but licking your lips can make chapping worse. When saliva evaporates, it leaves your lips even drier than before.
3. Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can lead to overall dryness, including on your lips. If you’re dehydrated, your lips may appear shriveled and feel rough.
4. Allergens or Irritants
Certain ingredients in lip products, such as fragrances, flavors, or dyes, can irritate sensitive lips. Even toothpaste with harsh ingredients can contribute to dryness.
5. Underlying Health Conditions
Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or nutritional deficiencies (such as low levels of B vitamins or iron) can make your lips more prone to cracking and dryness.
How to Heal Chapped Lips
Healing chapped lips starts with a combination of proper hydration, gentle exfoliation, and protective care. Below, we’ll break down the essential steps to restore your lips to their soft and healthy state.
1. Hydrate From Within
The foundation of healthy skin—including your lips—is adequate hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to replenish moisture from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses daily, and adjust based on activity level and climate.
2. Use a Gentle Lip Scrub
Exfoliating your lips can help remove dead skin cells and improve texture, but it’s crucial to do it gently. Over-scrubbing can cause irritation and worsen cracks. Look for a lip scrub with nourishing ingredients like sugar and honey, or make your own by mixing one teaspoon of sugar with a few drops of olive oil. Use your fingertip to massage the scrub onto your lips in circular motions, then rinse and pat dry.
3. Apply a Healing Lip Balm
A high-quality lip balm is a non-negotiable for healing chapped lips. Look for products with ingredients like:
Beeswax or shea butter to lock in moisture.
Lanolin to soothe and repair cracks.
Petroleum jelly to create a protective barrier against environmental damage.
Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.
Avoid balms with artificial fragrances or flavors, as these can irritate sensitive lips. Apply your lip balm liberally throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking.
4. Protect Against Environmental Stressors
If you’re heading outside, shield your lips from harsh elements. In cold weather, wear a scarf to cover your mouth. In sunny conditions, opt for a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to guard against UV damage.
5. Avoid Irritants
Check the ingredients in your lip products and toothpaste. Opt for hypoallergenic or fragrance-free options if you suspect an allergic reaction might be causing your chapped lips. Be cautious with matte lipsticks, as they can be drying.
6. Try Overnight Lip Treatments
Overnight lip masks are an excellent way to give your lips an intensive hydration boost. Look for masks with occlusive ingredients like lanolin or ceramides. Apply a thick layer before bed to wake up with smoother, softer lips.
How to Prevent Chapped Lips
While treating chapped lips is essential, prevention is equally important to keep dryness and cracks at bay. Here’s how to maintain healthy lips:
1. Stay Consistently Hydrated
As mentioned earlier, hydration is key. Make it a habit to drink water throughout the day, and eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges for an extra boost.
2. Incorporate Lip Care Into Your Routine
Treat your lips with the same care you give your skin. Cleanse them gently at the end of the day to remove any makeup or debris, then follow up with a nourishing balm or mask.
3. Avoid Habitual Lip Licking
Break the cycle of licking your lips when they feel dry. Instead, keep a lip balm within arm’s reach so you can apply it whenever you feel the urge to lick.
4. Use a Humidifier
Indoor heating and air conditioning can strip moisture from the air, leaving your skin and lips parched. A humidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels and prevent your lips from drying out.
5. Opt for Lip-Friendly Products
Choose cosmetics that double as skincare. Look for lipsticks or tints with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil or vitamin E to keep your lips soft and supple.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, chapped lips can be treated with at-home remedies and good lip care practices. However, if your lips remain persistently dry or develop painful cracks that don’t heal, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist. You might be dealing with a more serious condition, such as a fungal infection, allergic reaction, or vitamin deficiency, that requires medical attention.
Our Favorite Products for Healing Chapped Lips
To round out your lip care routine, here are some tried-and-true products we recommend:
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: A classic multi-purpose balm that soothes and protects cracked lips. ($18 on Amazon).
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: An overnight treatment packed with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients. ($24 on Amazon).
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm: A natural option with beeswax and vitamin E for long-lasting moisture. ($9 on Amazon).
Vaseline Lip Therapy: Simple and effective, this balm locks in hydration and shields your lips from external stressors. ($10 on Amazon).
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15: A hydrating, tinted balm with built-in sun protection. ($32 on Amazon).
Final Thoughts
Healing and preventing chapped lips doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the causes of dryness and adopting a consistent lip care routine, you can keep your lips smooth, hydrated, and crack-free year-round. Remember, small changes—like staying hydrated, using the right products, and protecting your lips from harsh weather—can make a big difference.
FAQ
1. Can chapped lips heal on their own?
Yes, mild chapped lips can heal on their own with time. However, using a hydrating lip balm and avoiding irritants can speed up the healing process and reduce discomfort.
2. How long does it take to heal chapped lips?
The healing time depends on the severity of the chapping. With proper care, most cases improve within a few days to a week.
3. Is it bad to peel flaky skin from chapped lips?
Yes, peeling flaky skin can cause further damage and even lead to bleeding. Instead, gently exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub to remove dead skin safely.
4. Can I use coconut oil on my chapped lips?
Yes, coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help soothe and protect chapped lips. Apply a small amount as needed throughout the day.
5. Why do my lips get chapped even when I use lip balm?
Certain lip balms with fragrances, flavors, or drying ingredients like menthol can worsen dryness. Look for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic balm with hydrating and protective ingredients.
6. Are there any foods that help prevent chapped lips?
Yes, foods rich in vitamins and hydration can support healthy lips. Incorporate foods high in vitamin E, such as nuts and seeds, and stay hydrated with water-rich fruits and vegetables.
7. Should I wear lip balm overnight?
Absolutely! Applying a thick layer of lip balm or an overnight lip mask before bed can provide intensive hydration and repair while you sleep.