Dry, Cracked Lips? This Simple Trick Changes Everything
As winter winds and dry indoor heating sweep across the region, dermatologists are warning people to Whether it’s the icy winds or the blazing sun , your lips are under constant attack. Dermatologists warn that this often‑ignored part of our skin needs care in every season — not just when the cold weather sets in.
“Lips don’t have oil glands, so they can’t moisturize themselves,” explains Dr. Rakhesh, a top dermatologist from Kochi. “They’re more vulnerable to dryness, cracking, and even sun damage than most people realize.”
Why Lips Suffer in Every Season
- Winter: Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating strip away moisture, leaving lips dry, cracked, and sometimes bleeding.
- Summer: Strong UV rays can burn lips, causing peeling, irritation, and even increasing the risk of skin cancer. Pool chlorine, salty seawater, and hot dry winds add to the damage.
The Year‑Round Lip Care Playbook
1. Always keep them hydrated
- Drink plenty of water daily. Hydration starts inside the body and works its way out.
2. Choose the right balm
- Winter: Opt for balms with beeswax, shea butter, or petroleum jelly for a protective barrier.
- Summer: Pick a lip balm with SPF 15+ to shield against UV rays.
3. Apply frequently
- Reapply lip balm after eating, drinking, swimming, or spending long hours outdoors.
4. Don’t lick your lips
- Saliva evaporates quickly, taking precious moisture with it.
5. Exfoliate gently
- Once or twice a week, use a soft toothbrush or sugar scrub to remove dead skin so lip balm can penetrate better.
6. Protect physically
- Winter: Wear a scarf to block cold winds.
- Summer: Wear a wide‑brimmed hat to shade your lips from the sun.
When to Seek Help
Persistent cracking at the corners of the mouth, swelling, or sores that don’t heal could signal cheilitis, vitamin deficiencies, or other medical conditions. Experts recommend seeing a dermatologist if symptoms last more than a week despite self‑care.
Bottom Line
Beautiful, healthy lips aren’t just for the camera — they’re a sign of good skin health. By making lip care a year‑round habit, you can avoid the painful cycle of dryness in winter and burning in summer.
As Dr. Rakhesh sums it up: “Think of your lip balm the same way you think of your sunscreen — you need it in every season, not just when the weather feels extreme.”
