The skin of your lips is thinner than the rest of your body and doesn’t have a corneal layer. Therefore, it retains less water and is more vulnerable to environmental factors like pollution, sunlight, wind, cold and dry air. The result: it becomes dry very easily! Here are a few helpful hints for coming to its rescue.
1. Exfoliate your lips
A gentle exfoliation a least once a week rids the lips from small pieces of dry skin, that are often uncomfortable, and make them regain all their softness and suppleness. To get the best result, use an exfoliating balm specially intended for this purpose and apply it in small circular movements.
2. Moisturize them
Make sure to apply a moisturizing balm on your lips several times a day. Choose cocoa butter or shea butter-based formulas, rich in honey or beeswax – all deeply nourishing ingredients. Some lip balms also contain vitamins A and E and trace elements, favouring long-term moisturization.
If your lips are very dry or chapped, you can supplement your moisturization routine by applying petroleum jelly or calendula-based cream at bedtime. Deeply nourished and protected, your skin will have everything it needs to repair and regenerate itself during the night.
Tip:
When you apply a moisturizing mask, put a small quantity of this product on your lips to moisturize them too.
3. Protect them
Summer or winter, before going outdoors, protect your lips with a moisturizing lip balm containing sunscreen: whatever the weather, UV rays can damage the skin and cause the appearance of fine lines.
If you spend several hours outside, make sure to reapply your balm frequently. Always keep it on hand – if it’s necesary, get one for every bag you possess!
A few extra tips
- If the air in your home is particularly dry, install a humidifier in your bedroom and run it at night.
- Avoid licking your lips. This damages them even more.
- Drink plenty of water.