Dry lips, also called chapped lips, develop when the delicate skin on the lips loses moisture and becomes dehydrated or irritated. Unlike the rest of the skin, lips lack oil glands, making them more vulnerable to dryness, cracking, and damage. Environmental factors such as cold, wind, sun, and dry air can strip away natural moisture, while daily habits and lifestyle choices may worsen the condition. Symptoms include tightness, flakiness, peeling, redness, and in severe cases, painful cracks or bleeding. Without proper care and hydration, dry lips can become uncomfortable, slow to heal, and prone to further irritation.
Symptoms of dry lips: signs of chapped, cracked, and peeling lips
Dry lips can be recognised by several noticeable signs. A common symptom is a feeling of tightness or roughness, where the lips appear flaky or hardened. Peeling skin is also frequent, with thin layers sometimes shedding throughout the day. In more severe cases, small cuts or cracks may form on the surface, causing discomfort or even bleeding. Redness and inflammation often accompany dryness, particularly when lips are irritated by foods or environmental factors. Some people may also experience a burning or stinging sensation, especially when consuming salty, spicy, or acidic foods. If left untreated, dryness can worsen over time, leading to painful splits and bleeding.
Common causes of dry lips
Dry lips can occur due to a mix of environmental, lifestyle, and health factors that strip or reduce moisture on the delicate skin of the lips. Common causes include:
- Cold, windy, or dry weather that removes natural moisture from the lips.
- Frequent licking of the lips, which evaporates saliva and worsens dryness.
- Breathing through the mouth during sleep or exercise, accelerating moisture loss.
- Smoking, which irritates and dehydrates the lips.
- Dehydration from insufficient water intake.
- Use of harsh cosmetic products, such as certain lipsticks, balms, or toothpastes, that can irritate lips.
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B6, or iron.
- Allergic reactions to cosmetics, foods, or oral care products.
- Illnesses causing fever, cold, or excessive mouth breathing, which make lips more prone to dryness.
Home remedies to heal dry lips
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining moisture in your lips. Aim for 2–3 litres daily to prevent dryness from within.
- Eat water-rich foods: Foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges help keep your body and lips hydrated by providing extra fluids naturally.
- Include vitamin-rich foods: A diet rich in vitamin B, iron, and zinc supports healthy skin and lips. Leafy greens, nuts, and eggs are excellent sources that can prevent and repair dryness.
- Apply natural oils: Coconut oil or almond oil can be applied two to three times daily. These oils lock in moisture, protect lips from further dryness, and soothe irritation.
- Use ghee or shea butter: These natural moisturizers deeply nourish the lips, repair cracks, and promote faster healing of dry, chapped areas.
- Avoid licking your lips: Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips even drier. Resist the urge to lick them to maintain natural moisture.
- Use a humidifier indoors: Maintaining air humidity prevents lips from drying out in heated or air-conditioned rooms.
- Avoid irritating foods: If lips are cracked, spicy, salty, or citrus foods can worsen discomfort and delay healing, so it’s best to limit them temporarily.
Preventing dry lips
Prevention is easier than treatment when it comes to chapped lips. Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions without protective measures such as scarves or balms. Choose lip products that are gentle, fragrance-free, and enriched with moisturising ingredients. Regularly drink water and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. By being mindful of habits such as lip licking, smoking, and mouth breathing, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of persistent dryness. Simple daily practices, combined with occasional therapeutic techniques, can keep lips smooth, hydrated, and healthy throughout the yearAlso Read: Body polishing for glowing skin: Benefits that make it Gen Z’s favourite skincare hack
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