Dry and chapped lips are an extremely common problem that can not only make your lips look unattractive but may also cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The soft and delicate skin over your lips needs special care and protection.
From harsh weather conditions to dehydration, there are a number of reasons why your lips may end up losing their moisture and smooth texture.
Causes of Chapped Lips
Some of the main causes of dry and cracking lips are:
- A possible vitamin deficiency
- Lack of care or protection
- Breathing through the mouth
- Allergic reaction
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Excessive licking of lips
- Sun exposure
- Harsh weather
Symptoms of Chapped Lips
Common symptoms associated with chapped lips are:
- Dryness
- Redness
- Cracking
- Flaking
- Tender or soreness when touched
Prevention
To prevent the recurrence of chapped lips, follow these simple tips:
- Keep your lips well moisturized.
- Keep your body well hydrated.
- Make sure the products you use on your lips do not contain possible allergens.
- Avoid extreme temperatures if possible.
- Breathe through the nose.
- Eat a proper diet.
In case the problem persists or gets worse even after constant care and treatment, you may want to consult your dermatologist. Very rarely, persistent chapped lips may be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
A number of commercial products are available for the treatment of chapped lips. However, you can save yourself from spending a fortune on these products by following some simple and effective natural remedies.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for chapped lips.
1. Sugar
“Exfoliating” or removing dead cells off your chapped lips will help restore their natural softness faster.
- Mix 2 teaspoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of honey to form a paste.
- Apply the paste your lips, and allow it to set (approximately one minute).
- Use your fingers to gently rub the mixture around on your lips to loosen the dead skin cells.
- Wash it off with lukewarm water.
- Apply a little honey to lock in the moisture
2. Honey
Honey is popularly used for the treatment of chapped lips. It is a great moisturizer and also consists of healing and antibacterial properties.
- Simply apply pure organic honey on your chapped lips several times a day.
- Prepare a paste of honey and glycerin in the evening. Apply this paste before going to bed to reveal soft lips in the morning.
3. Rose Petals
Rose petals can also be of great help for those suffering from chapped lips. This remedy will help your lips stay moisturized and enhance their natural color.
- Wash a handful of rose petals thoroughly in water.
- Soak the clean petals in milk for a few hours (glycerin is a great nondairy alternative).
- Mash the rose petals into a thick paste.
- Apply the paste on your dry lips two to three times a day as well as every night before going to bed.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help heal chapped lips caused by seasonal weather changes.
- Simply apply pure coconut oil several times a day on your lips to keep them moisturized.
You may also use olive oil instead of coconut oil.
5. Castor Oil
Castor oil is an effective hydrating agent and a great remedy for chapped lips.
- Simply apply castor oil to your lips several times a day.
- You may also make a soothing lip treatment at home by mixing together 1 teaspoon each of castor oil and glycerin and 3 drops of fresh lemon juice. Apply the mixture on your lips before going to bed. In the morning, wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this daily until your lips are healed.
6. Milk Cream
Milk cream can be a great natural lip moisturizer due to its high fat content.
- Apply fresh milk cream on your lips and leave it on for 10 minutes.
- Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat daily to help your lips heal faster.
7. Aloe Vera Gel
The healing qualities of aloe vera are extremely popular. Applying a small amount of aloe vera gel daily will relieve the pain associated with chapped lips and help them heal.
The amazing healing properties of aloe vera gel more than just make up for its rather unpleasant taste.
8. Cucumber
Another simple and natural solution for chapped lips is cucumber.
- Rub a small slice of cucumber across your dry lips gently so that the juice is applied evenly.
- Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes or until it is absorbed.
- Repeat several times a day for faster results.
9. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is also very effective in treating dry lips.
- Simply apply petroleum jelly over your dry lips several times a day to keep them well protected. Make sure to reapply before going to bed to keep your lips well nourished overnight.
- For extra healing, apply a light coat of honey on your lips, let it dry, and then apply a light coat of petroleum jelly.
10. Water
Your chapped lips can be a result of dehydration. It’s vital to keep your body well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water also helps flush out toxins from of the body.
- Begin your day by drinking 1 or 2 glasses of water, and follow the general rule of eight glasses per day.
- Another great tip is drinking a glass of warm water before bed to stay hydrated throughout the night.