7 Ways to Treat Dry and Chapped Lips to Make Them Soft Again

Illustration of how to treat dry and chapped lips to make them soft again (Freepik/shurkin_son)

YOGYAKARTA - Dry and chapped lips are a common problem experienced by many people. This condition can cause discomfort, pain, and even make the lips look unhealthy. Fortunately, there are various ways to treat dry lips that can help restore natural moisture while maintaining the health of the lips in the long term.

1. Avoid the habit of licking your lips

When the lips feel dry, many people reflexively lick them to feel more moist. In fact, this habit can actually aggravate the condition of the lips. After the saliva evaporates, the lips will lose more moisture so that they feel drier and more easily broken.

2. Do not peel or bite the skin of the lips

Skin peeling lips often makes someone tempted to pull or bite the dry part. This habit can cause small wounds and hinder the natural healing process of the skin of the lips. Quoting Byrdie, Thursday, June 18, you should let the peeling skin fall off by itself while maintaining the moisture of the lips regularly.

Illustration of how to treat dry and chapped lips (Freepik)3. Protect lips from the sun and extreme weather

Lips also need protection from the sun, just like the skin on the face. Exposure to UV rays, strong winds, or dry cold air can make lips more prone to losing moisture. Therefore, it is important to keep lips protected when you are outside.

4. Maintain body and environmental moisture

Lack of fluid in the body can contribute to dry lips. Ensuring daily fluid needs are met helps maintain overall body moisture, including on the lips. In addition, using a humidifier in a room with dry air can also help maintain skin and lip moisture.

5. Pay attention to objects that often come into contact with the lips

Some objects that often touch the lip area can sometimes trigger irritation without realizing it. For example, straws, wind instruments, or other objects containing certain ingredients that are not suitable for sensitive skin. If your lips often experience irritation, try paying attention to your daily habits that may be the trigger.

Illustration of how to treat dry and chapped lips (Freepik/wayhomestudio)6. Choose lip balm that is not irritating

Lip balm can help keep your lips moisturized, but the selection needs to be considered. It is best to use a gentle product that does not contain ingredients that can potentially cause irritation. If after use your lips feel more painful or dry, consider replacing the product with a simpler formula.

7. Consult if the lips do not improve

Most cases of dry lips can improve with simple home treatments. However, if the condition lasts for several weeks or continues to recur even after being treated well, it is best to see a dermatologist. Further examination can help find out if there are other factors affecting the health of the lips.

Caring for dry and chapped lips requires attention to daily habits, not just the use of care products. By avoiding habits that can aggravate dryness, maintaining body hydration, and applying the right lip care, you can help keep your lips healthy and comfortable. How to care for dry lips that are done consistently can also help prevent the same problem from reappearing later.