Chapped Lips

If puckering is painful and pursing is too much to bear, you’re probably suffering from chapped lips. Harsh winter weather, dry indoor heat, a habit of constantly licking your lips-all of these factors can help dry out the skin of your lips by causing the moisture in the skin to evaporate. The result; Rough, cracked, sensitive lips that leave you little to smile about.
Protect your lips from chapping is not only important for appearance and comfort, but for health. Cold sores, bacterial infection, and other problems are more likely to strike lips that are already damaged by chapping.


7 TIPS FOR SMOOTHER LIPS.

DON’T LICK YOUR LIPS.
The repeated exposure to water actually robs moisture from the lips, causing them to become dry.

USE A LIP BALM.
Numerous products are available over the counter. Pick one that you like so you’ll use it frequently. Most lip balm products are waxy or greasy and work by sealing in moisture with a protective barrier.

TRY PETROLATUM.
Plain old petrolatum is good, too.

WEAR LIPSTICK.
If you look at old men and old women, you’ll see a difference in their lips, especially the lower. Be careful of cosmetics made outside of the United States, however, since the purity of such products may vary.

SCREEN OUT THE SUN.
The sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage and dry the sensitive skin on your lips. Indeed, the lips are a common site for the skin cancer. Your lips don’t contain melanin (the pigment or coloring, that can help protect skin from the sun) and they sunburn easier.


CHECK OUT YOUR TOOTHPASTE.
An allergy-to your toothpaste or mouthwash-could be to blame for the rough, red skin on your lips. Try switching brands of toothpaste and going without the mouthwash for a few days to see if the problem clears. Rinse well after brushing.

WATCH WHAT PASSES BETWEEN THEM.
When your lips are chapped, they’re more sensitive, and certain foods can irritate them. Holding off on pepper, mustard, barbecue sauce, orange juice, and alcoholic beverages to give your lips a break as they heal.