Have you ever wondered why your lips are dry and cracked? The answer lies in a variety of factors. Cold weather, lack of moisture, and dry indoor air are common culprits that affect the health of our lips. Since the skin on our lips is thinner and more sensitive, it is particularly vulnerable to external factors, often leading to dryness and cracking.
In this article, we’ll explore how to protect lips from harmful influences, identify the main causes of dry lips, and share simple yet effective solutions to restore their healthy appearance and softness.
What are dry lips?
Dry lips occur when the skin on the lips becomes dehydrated, cracked, and sensitive. This condition often manifests as peeling, redness, a burning sensation, or painful cracks.
Lips are naturally prone to dryness because they lack sebaceous glands that produce the protective layer of oils found on other parts of the body. The skin on the lips is also thinner and more delicate, making it more susceptible to environmental factors such as wind, sun, heat, or even frequent licking.
Causes of dry lips
- Environmental factors: Weather conditions significantly impact the health of our lips. Cold air, wind, and low humidity levels cause the skin on the lips to lose moisture, leading to dryness and cracking. In winter, when temperatures drop, and in summer, when sun exposure is intense, lips are particularly vulnerable. Dry indoor air, especially in heated spaces, further exacerbates the issue.
- Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can quickly reflect on the skin, including the lips. To keep lips hydrated, drinking enough water—at least two liters per day—is essential. Avoid excessive alcohol, smoking, and coffee, as these can further dehydrate the body.
- Poor habits: Habits such as licking or biting lips can worsen dry lips. Excessive licking destroys the skin's natural barrier, accelerating moisture loss, while biting often causes additional damage and irritation, leading to painful cracks.
- Health conditions: A deficiency in nutrients such as vitamins B and A can weaken the skin on the lips, increasing the risk of dryness and cracking. Additionally, allergies to cosmetic products or certain foods can affect lip health. For persistent issues, consulting a dermatologist is recommended to determine appropriate care and preventative measures.
Symptoms of dry lips
Dry lips typically present as cracked, peeling skin that feels rough to the touch. Common symptoms include itching or a burning sensation caused by moisture loss and skin tightness.
In more severe cases, the lips may become red or inflamed, with painful cracks appearing.
Possible complications
If left untreated, dry lips can lead to more serious complications, such as infections or inflammation. Cracked lips provide an entry point for bacteria and other microorganisms, which can cause infections. Regular lip care is essential to prevent these complications.
Best solutions for dry lips and the benefits of CBD products
Managing dry lips involves several strategies. As mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to avoid wetting the lips with saliva, as saliva enzymes irritate the skin and break down its natural barrier, evaporating quickly and leaving the lips even drier.
Effective ways to care for dry lips
- Home remedies: Proven home remedies like honey and curd masks, olive oil, or avocado are excellent for nourishing cracked lips.
- Sun protection: Lips are particularly sensitive to UV rays, so it’s essential to protect them with sunscreen, even in winter
- Hydration: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated keeps the skin, including the lips, moisturized. Dehydration often leads to dry and cracked lips, making hydration essential.
- Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, along with avoiding habits like lip-biting, supports healthy lips.
- Lip care with Hemptouch products: One of the most effective approaches is using CBD-based products, renowned for their soothing and regenerative properties. CBD lip balms not only provide deep hydration but also aid in repairing damaged skin by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. We particularly recommend the Hydrating Lip Balm, which strengthens the skin's protective barrier, soothes, relaxes, and softens dry and dehydrated lips, as well as the Intensive Lip Balm, which instantly nourishes the lips and protects them from dryness.
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Sources:
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/heal-dry-chapped-lips