Like our other body parts our lips do not have a protective system against cold climate or less humidity. So they get affected a lot in unfavorable weather. Less moisture in the skin, in and around the lips causes dry lips. There are no sweat and oil glands in the lips like the rest of the body so it becomes all the more important to keep them well hydrated.
The causes of dry lips can be several. Some are as follows:
Dehydration, dry skin, cold and chilly climate, too much exposure to wind (while riding a bike or traveling at speed), liking your lips again and again, allergy to lipstick or other cosmetics used on the facial skin, excessive exposure to the sun, sensitive skin, over washing your face with soap, harsh cosmetics, smoking too much, deficiency of vitamins in the body (like A, B, C).
Drinking too much tea and coffee, excessive intake of caffeine rich products or alcohol causes dehydration and leads to dry chapped lips.
Lips have a very thin outer layer and cannot handle extreme temperatures. This leads to cracking of the outer skin and can be very painful.
Too much stress can cause a nervous breakdown. The low immunity of the body at such a time may also cause dry lips.
Allergy to certain foods and cosmetics may also cause your lips to dry out and chap.
Certain kinds of medicines may also cause your body to dehydrate and may lead to chapped lips.
Dry lips look red and sore, cracked, chapped and are very painful. This can also lead to infection so proper routine care is necessary. The first step in preventing dry lips is to keep your body well hydrated. You can do this by drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday. Besides this also maintain a healthy balanced diet rich in vitamins A, B, C, E. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Always carry a good lip balm, which offers sun protection as well. Apply frequently as and when necessary. Stay away from lipsticks and cosmetics with harsh chemicals. An effective remedy for dry lips is to apply slightly warm pure ghee every night before going to bed. This will rejuvenate your lips real fast giving you healthy pink lips. You may also try a mix of pure rose water, glycerin and limejuice. Mix it in equal quantities and apply on your lips at least twice daily.
answered by G M