AAD's Tips for Healing Dry, Chapped Lips

 7 dermatologists' tips for healing dry, chapped lips (aad.org) 

This is a great article from the American Academy of Dermatology.  

Dry and chapped lips can be caused by a variety of factors, including cold weather, low humidity, and certain medical conditions. To heal dry and chapped lips, it is important to keep them moisturized and protected from further damage.

One of the best ways to moisturize dry and chapped lips is to use a lip balm or lip moisturizer that contains ingredients such as beeswax, petroleum jelly, or shea butter. These ingredients form a barrier on the lips to lock in moisture and protect them from the elements. It is also important to avoid lip balms that contain irritants like fragrances or flavors, which can dry out the lips further.

Another way to heal dry and chapped lips is to exfoliate them gently. This can be done by using a lip scrub or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove any dead skin cells from the lips. Exfoliating the lips can help to reveal the soft, smooth skin underneath and improve the penetration of lip balm.

Drinking plenty of water is also key to keeping your lips hydrated.

It's also important to protect your lips from the sun, as UV rays can dry out and damage the skin. Sunscreen lip balms are available to provide protection.

If you have dry and chapped lips that don't improve with home treatment, it is important to see a dermatologist. In some cases, dry and chapped lips can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as an autoimmune disorder or a fungal infection. A dermatologist can help to diagnose the cause of your dry and chapped lips and recommend the appropriate treatment.

In summary, healing dry and chapped lips involves keeping them moisturized, protected, exfoliated and hydrated. Using lip balms that contain hydrating ingredients like beeswax, petroleum jelly, or shea butter and avoiding those with irritants can help. Gentle exfoliation and drinking plenty of water can also improve the condition of the lips. It is important to protect the lips from sun and if the condition persists, it's best to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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