Summer's here! It's a time for sunshine, vacations, and enjoying the outdoors. But for many, summer also brings unwanted guests – chapped lips. This can be frustrating, especially when you want a healthy, happy smile for all those summer selfies.
So, what exactly causes chapped lips in the summer? While dry winter air is a common culprit, summer brings its own set of challenges
What are dry lips?
Dry lips refer to a condition where the skin on the lips becomes dehydrated, resulting in discomfort, flakiness, and sometimes cracking. This common issue often occurs due to factors such as dehydration, exposure to harsh weather conditions like sun and wind, mouth breathing, and the use of certain products containing irritating ingredients. Dry lips can be bothersome and may lead to discomfort or pain if left untreated. Maintaining proper hydration, protecting lips from the elements, and using moisturising lip products are key strategies to prevent and alleviate dryness.
What causes dry lips?
Dehydration: One of the primary culprits behind dry lips is dehydration. When your body is lacking in fluids, your lips are often one of the first places to show signs of dryness.
Sun exposure: Excessive exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can damage the delicate skin on your lips, leading to dryness and chapping.
Wind: Windy conditions can strip moisture from your lips, leaving them feeling dry and irritated.
Mouth breathing: Breathing through your mouth, especially during sleep, can contribute to dry lips by causing moisture to evaporate more quickly.
Harsh products: Certain lip balms, lipsticks, and toothpaste containing harsh ingredients can exacerbate dryness and irritation.
Tips to prevent dry lips during summers:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and lips hydrated.
Use sun protection: Apply a lip balm with SPF before heading outdoors to protect your lips from the sun's damaging rays.
Moisturise regularly: Keep your lips moisturized by applying a hydrating lip balm or petroleum jelly throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking.
Avoid licking your lips: While it may provide temporary relief, licking your lips can actually worsen dryness by removing natural oils and moisture.
Protect from the elements: Wear a scarf or face mask in windy conditions to shield your lips from drying out.
Choose lip products wisely: Opt for gentle, hydrating lip balms free from harsh ingredients like fragrances and dyes.
Humidify your environment: Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air, especially during the hot summer months when the air can be dry.
