Winter brings with it a host of seasonal changes, including dropping temperatures and lower humidity levels. While many people enjoy the cozy vibes of winter, one common issue that arises during this time is cracked lips.
Cracked lips can be uncomfortable, painful, and unsightly. In this article, we will explore the causes behind cracked lips in winter and provide practical tips to prevent and treat this common concern. Let’s find out some main reasons for cracked lips.
Low Humidity
During winter, the air tends to be drier both indoors and outdoors. Reduced humidity levels lead to moisture loss from the skin, including the delicate skin on the lips. As a result, the lips become dry and prone to cracking.
Cold Temperatures
Exposure to cold temperatures can cause the blood vessels in the lips to constrict, leading to reduced blood flow and less nourishment to the skin. This, combined with the drying effect of cold air, can contribute to lip dryness and cracking.
Before purchasing the lip gloss or lip balm, try to read the ingredients or formula they are using, most lip gloss boxes have it written on the back side of their lip gloss packaging.
Indoor Heating
Indoor heating systems are commonly used during winter to keep homes and offices warm. However, these heating systems can further deplete the moisture in the air, resulting in dry lips and skin.
Licking Lips
Many people have a habit of licking their lips to moisten them when they feel dry. However, saliva evaporates quickly, leaving the lips even drier than before. The repeated wetting and drying cycle can cause the lips to become chapped and cracked.
Prevention and Treatment of Cracked Lips
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining overall skin health, including the lips. During winter, it’s important to increase your water intake as the dry air can dehydrate your body and lips.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and lips hydrated from within. Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom or office to add moisture to the air, which can help prevent excessive dryness.
Lip Balm
Applying a moisturizing lip balm regularly is crucial for preventing and treating cracked lips. Look for lip balms that contain emollient ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, or natural oils (such as coconut oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil). There are so many kinds of lip glosses, and you will often find them in decent custom lip gloss boxes.
These ingredients help lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier for the lips. Apply lip balm several times a day, especially before going outside or before bed.
Avoid Licking Lips
Many people have a habit of licking their lips to moisten them when they feel dry. However, saliva evaporates quickly, leaving the lips even drier than before. The repeated wetting and drying cycle can cause the lips to become chapped and cracked.
Instead of licking your lips, reach for a lip balm to provide immediate relief. If necessary, carry a small tube of lip gloss or balm with you to have it readily available whenever your lips feel dry. But make sure to always choose custom lip gloss boxes with good patents.
Humidify Indoor Spaces
Indoor heating systems are commonly used during winter to keep homes and offices warm. However, these heating systems can further deplete the moisture in the air, resulting in dry lips and skin.
To combat this, use a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air. This helps prevent excessive dryness and maintains a more comfortable environment for your skin, including your lips.
Protect Lips Outdoors
When venturing outside in cold weather, it’s important to protect your lips from the harsh elements. Cold winds can strip moisture from the lips and contribute to cracking. Before heading out, cover your lips with a scarf, a balaclava, or a high quality lip balm with SPF.
These measures create a barrier and shield your lips from the cold wind and extreme temperatures. Consider using a lip balm with built in sun protection to protect your lips from harmful UV rays, even on cloudy winter days.
Cracked lips in winter are a common occurrence due to low humidity, cold temperatures, indoor heating, and the habit of licking the lips. However, with proper care and preventative measures, you can keep your lips soft, supple, and crack-free throughout the winter season.
As said earlier, use more lip balm or lip gloss, choose from the good brands, you can read from the lip gloss packaging before buying.
By staying hydrated, using moisturizing lip balms, protecting your lips from the elements, and avoiding lip licking habits, you can maintain healthy and comfortable lips all winter long. Embrace these simple tips to ensure your lips stay smooth and kissable, even in the harshest winter weather.