Creating a Perfect Pout by Putting an End to Chapped Lips

Dry lips in the winter are something that I have experienced far too well. I thought it was seasonal until I realized it happened pretty often. I realized my lips were extremely dry after wearing one of my favorite beauty items, matte lipstick (MATTE is my FAVORITE, y'all)! Yes, Cosmetics can cause dry lips.

Red Perfect Pout

I was in a constant battle between using inexpensive chapsticks because of convenience and mattifying lipstick. Ok so, I never thought twice about purchasing one of the conveniently placed chapsticks and lip balms I threw in my cart as I approached checkout because they have a way of disappearing after a few uses. I mean, seriously, where do they go?

Lips Need Tender Loving Care

Anyway, after years in the beauty industry, I know the importance of taking care of the thin layers of skin on the lips. Yes, you read that right; the layers are thin, which explains a lot. Having oily or dry skin does not impact the lips as much as you think because the lips do not produce sebum ( a naturally occurring oil-like substance that protects the skin from drying out). That's why they are sensitive and vulnerable to all the elements and what we eat.

If you have dry lips, choose a lipstick to hydrate and nourish your lips. Also, look for lipsticks that contain ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E, or other moisturizing ingredients. Doing this can help keep your lips soft, supple, and smooth. You can always apply a lip balm before your lipstick to help lock in moisture and keep the dryness of certain pigments at bay.

How To Get Rid of Chapped Lips

Start by drinking more water. Dehydration can cause dry lips, so ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, if you are out in the elements (wind or cold), try to protect your lips as much as possible.

What Can I Use to Hydrate My Lips?

So there are several ways to moisturize dry lips.

Use a high-quality lip balm: Lip balms are created to moisturize and protect the delicate skin on our lips. Look for a lip balm that contains ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, coconut oil, or beeswax, as they can help soothe and hydrate your lips.

Current Favorite: Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

Use a humidifier: If you live in a dry climate or have a dry home, a humidifier can help add moisture to the air. By balancing out the air, you can prevent your lips from drying out.

Avoid licking your lips: Y'all, licking your lips can make them even drier. As the saliva evaporates, it leaves your lips even more, drier than before (like bone dry), especially in winter. Then you will want to lick them again, repeating the cycle.

Exfoliate your lips: If your lips are very dry ( and flaky), gently exfoliating them can help remove dead skin cells and allow your lip balm to penetrate more deeply. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a lip scrub (try sugar) to do this. I often go the toothbrush route because it works best for me.

Use a lip sleeping mask: A sleeping mask allows your lips to recover and receive moisturizing ingredients while you sleep. After a night of nourishment, you can wake up in the AM with a protected pout.

Current Favorite: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

How Can I Moisturize My Dry Lips Naturally?

Use natural remedies: Some natural remedies, like aloe vera gel, honey, or coconut oil, can help soothe and hydrate dry lips. Apply a small amount to your lips and leave it on for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.

Side note: If you wear lipstick for long periods, it can cause your lips to become dry. This is true, especially if you don't reapply lip balm or moisturizer throughout the day. So, if you're prone to dry lips, it's a good idea to let your lips breathe and recover.

6 Things to Do for a Healthy Lips

Anyway, I use these tips to help create my perfect pout! I have said goodbye, put an end to chapped lips, and said hello to luscious lips! So how do you support the health of your lips? Please let me know in the comments below.

Until next time, remember to mark your life with beauty!

xo Janae’