what can you do for very chapped lips

Because your lips do not have their own oil glands, chapping and cracking can become an ongoing nuisance. It is useful to look for lip products that contain petrolatum to lock moisture in and dimethicone to seal off cracks. In addition, some other natural, plant-derived remedies are shea butter, beeswax, castor seed oil, and soybean oil, but any of these can cause an allergic reaction in those who are sensitive. Another useful natural ingredient is coconut oil. It performs double duty as it can be helpful if your skin is dry and your lips are chapped. Because lip balms do not stay in place for a long time, frequent reapplication is necessary. Use at least six to eight coats during the day.

Read our article to learn the best home remedies for Cracked, chapped and dry lips.

Don't use products with camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus on your dry lips as these can cause irritation. Do not lick your lips when they are chapped. Although doing this may provide some immediate relief, it ultimately makes the condition much worse.

Cold weather, lack of humidity and dehydration are the most common causes of dry, cracked lips. Sometimes vitamin deficiencies can contribute to this condition. Check with your doctor if you suspect a vitamin deficiency. Try to eat well-rounded healthy meals and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or juices. Use a humidifier indoors. A dry climate or heaters used during the winter can sap much needed moisture from the air and a humidifier can help alleviate some of this dryness.

answered by G R

Chapped lips must be a result of dry climate. Chapped lips leave you with increased risk of chapped lips. Damage by sun's exposure of ultraviolet rays dries the lips. A lip balm proves beneficial. A lipstick with a high sun protective factor (SPF) is preferred. Avoid licking lips, as it provides temporary relief. The moisture is lost and the lips become dry and chapped. Spicy and acidic foods are saved from the lips, as these aggravate the problem. Allergic reaction to a mouthwash or toothpaste also contributes to dry and chapped skin. Avoid exposure to extreme dry air or cold is helpful. Dehydration is another contributing factor. Adequate intake of vegetables and fruit juices or water proves beneficial. Allergic rhinitis results in breathing through the mouth, thereby causing chapped lips. Avoid flavored lip balms, as the probability of licking increases. A humidifier keeps your home intact with moisture. This also prevents dry lips. Topical application of aloe vera gel on your lips helps. A saline bath is useful. An extract of margosa leaves is beneficial, when applied on the lips. Cucumber slices placed on the lips are effective remedies.

answered by Dr C