WHY ARE MY LIPS ALWAYS DRY AND PEELING

Our lips are crucial for showing feelings, talking, and even telling us how healthy we are. But for some folks, having dry and peeling lips is a constant bother. If you’re always grabbing lip balm or wondering why your lips are always so dry, you’re not the only one. Let’s dive into the reasons behind always having dry and flaky lips, sharing tips that can help your lips feel better and full of life again.

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WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CHAPPED LIPS?

Chapped lips, a common ailment affecting many, manifest through several distinctive symptoms. One prevalent sign is the presence of redness, as the delicate skin on the lips becomes irritated and inflamed. 

Dryness is another key indicator, often accompanied by a sensation of tightness, roughness, or a parched feeling. Peeling, where the outer layer of skin on the lips starts to flake or shed, is another characteristic symptom of chapped lips.

In more severe cases, cracks may appear on the lips, causing discomfort and making routine activities like eating or speaking more challenging. These symptoms collectively signify the discomfort and potential pain associated with chapped lips, prompting individuals to seek relief through various remedies and preventive measures.

COMMON CAUSES OF CHAPPED LIPS

SALTY OR SPICY FOODS

If you love snacks like pretzels or chips, they might be causing your lips to peel. Salty foods, especially those with a lot of salt on them, can affect your lips. Salt takes away water, making your lips dry. Spicy snacks can also irritate your skin and make your lips lose water. To help your lips heal, try avoiding salty foods for a bit and use a lip balm with paraffin wax.

LIP BALM ADDICTION

Even though lip balms promise to hydrate, not all of them do the job well. Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, a skin doctor in New York City, explains that some lip balms only provide quick moisture from the air. However, without things like petroleum, beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, or squalene (called occlusives), the moisture doesn’t stay locked in, and your lips can end up feeling even drier. To avoid constantly reapplying, it’s important to use a lip balm that has both humectant and occlusive ingredients. Dr. Nussbaum also suggests steering clear of parabens, phenol, phthalates, fragrances, and lanolin if you have sensitive skin.

LICKING YOUR LIPS

Licking your lips might seem like a quick way to moisten them, but it can actually lead to dryness. When you lick your lips, the saliva evaporates, taking away moisture and leaving your lips drier than before. This habit can strip away natural oils from your lips, making them more prone to dryness and potentially causing them to become chapped or cracked. To keep your lips hydrated, it’s best to resist the urge to lick them and instead use a moisturizer.

DEHYDRATION

Even though having dry skin doesn’t always mean you’re not drinking enough water, your lips can get dry faster if you’re not hydrated. That’s because the skin on your lips changes quickly. If you notice other signs of not drinking enough water, it’s okay. You can fix it easily by making sure to drink water regularly during the day. Experts say you should aim for about half your body weight in ounces of water.

CONSTANTLY EXPOSED TO DRY AIR

If you’re always around dry air, it can make your lips dry too. When the air doesn’t have much moisture, it takes away the moisture from your lips, making them feel dry and sometimes cracked. To help, you can use lip balm to add moisture to your lips and protect them from getting too dry. So, if you’re in a place with dry air, it’s a good idea to keep your lips moisturized to avoid dryness.

EXCESS SUN EXPOSURE

If your lips get even drier in the summer, it could be because of the sun. Believe it or not, your lips can get sunburned too. They’re actually more likely to get sunburned than other parts of your skin because your lip skin is different. If you don’t take care of sunburned lips, it could lead to something called actinic cheilitis, which is a problem caused by being in the sun for a long time. This can make your lips scaly and discolored. If you don’t treat it, it might even turn into something more serious, like squamous cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer. It’s important to protect your lips by using a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher when you’re out in the sun.

MEDICATION

Certain medications can contribute to dry lips as a side effect. Some drugs may affect the moisture levels in your body, leading to dehydration and subsequently drying out your lips. Additionally, certain medications may have ingredients that can directly impact the skin, making it more prone to dryness. If you’re experiencing persistent dry lips and are on medication, it’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing this side effect, adjusting your medication if necessary, or recommending suitable remedies to keep your lips moisturized.

YEAST INFECTION

While relatively uncommon, yeast infections can contribute to dry lips. Candida, a type of yeast, may overgrow on the lips, leading to a condition known as angular cheilitis. This can result in dryness, redness, and cracking at the corners of the mouth. Yeast infections often thrive in warm and moist environments, and factors such as saliva, weather conditions, or compromised immune systems can contribute to their occurrence. If you suspect a yeast infection is causing your dry lips, seeking medical advice is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment to alleviate the symptoms and address the underlying cause.

ACTINIC CHEILITIS

With this condition, your lower lip can get dry and have scaly patches. This dry and cracked area can make it easy for skin cancers to appear, especially squamous cell carcinomas in older folks. If you have this, the treatment involves using special creams or light therapy to help your skin fight back or get rid of the damaged cells. But before that, your doctor will do a test called a skin biopsy to make sure it’s the right treatment for you.

VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

According to dermatologist Dr. Adam Friedman, dry, cracked lips often indicate various vitamin B deficiencies, with B12 deficiency being the most common culprit. B12 is crucial for cell growth, healing, and turnover, and its shortage can lead to dryness and slow healing.  Chapped lips can also result from a lack of vitamin C, though this is less common due to the usual presence of recommended daily intake in diets. To address these deficiencies, your doctor can conduct a blood test to pinpoint the exact vitamin lacking and recommend supplements or dietary changes accordingly.

PARANEOPLASTIC PEMPHIGUS

This is an extremely uncommon situation, but covering all possibilities! Paraneoplastic pemphigus is an autoimmune disease linked to cancer, according to Dr. Friedman. Though it may show up as a skin rash, the main sign is an erosive oral disease. If you notice severe symptoms like cracked and bleeding lips, sores, redness, or swelling around your mouth, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of a more serious and blistering condition.

ALLERGIC REACTION OR IRRITANT CONTACT DERMATITIS

Dry lips can sometimes be a result of an allergic reaction or irritant contact dermatitis. When your lips come into contact with substances that trigger allergies or irritate the skin, it can lead to dryness and discomfort. Allergic reactions may be caused by certain lip products, such as lip balms or lipsticks, while irritant contact dermatitis can result from exposure to harsh chemicals or environmental factors. The symptoms may include dryness, redness, swelling, or even the development of small blisters on the lips. Identifying and avoiding the specific allergen or irritant is crucial in managing and preventing these reactions. 

HOW TO TREAT CHAPPED LIPS

Chapped lips can be a pesky and uncomfortable issue, but with the right care, you can soothe and revitalize your lips. Here’s a guide on how to treat chapped lips effectively.

HYDRATION IS KEY

One of the fundamental steps in treating chapped lips is to stay well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body, including your lips, moisturized from the inside. Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining the suppleness of your lips and preventing dryness.

GENTLE EXFOLIATION

Exfoliating your lips can help remove dead skin cells and promote the regeneration of new, healthy skin. Use a gentle lip scrub or a homemade mixture of sugar and honey to softly exfoliate your lips. Be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing may worsen the chapping.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT LIP BAM

Opt for a high-quality lip balm that contains moisturizing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Avoid lip balms with potential irritants such as fragrances or menthol. Applying the lip balm regularly, especially before going outdoors, forms a protective barrier against harsh weather conditions.

PROTECT FROM THE SUN

If you’re heading out into the sun, consider using a lip balm with SPF to shield your lips from harmful UV rays. Sun exposure can contribute to dryness and exacerbate chapped lips, so incorporating sun protection is an essential preventive measure.

AVOID LICKING YOUR LIPS

While it might be a natural instinct, licking your lips can worsen the problem. Saliva can contribute to further moisture loss, leading to increased dryness. Break the habit of licking your lips and opt for using a hydrating lip balm instead.

HUMIDIFY YOUR ENVIRONMENT

In dry climates or during the winter months when indoor heating systems are in use, the air can become particularly dry. Using a humidifier in your living or sleeping space adds moisture to the air, preventing your lips from drying out.

CONSULT A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL

If your chapped lips persist despite home remedies, or if you notice any unusual symptoms like persistent sores or inflammation, it’s advisable to seek advice from a healthcare professional. They can help identify any underlying issues and recommend appropriate treatments.

By following these simple yet effective steps, you can alleviate chapped lips and restore them to a soft and comfortable state.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BE APPLYING LIP BALM

The frequency of applying lip balm depends on various factors such as individual needs, weather conditions, and personal habits. In general, it’s recommended to apply lip balm regularly throughout the day, especially if you are exposed to elements that can contribute to dryness, such as cold or windy weather. Applying lip balm in the morning and before bedtime can be a good routine, and it’s crucial to reapply after eating or drinking. If you spend a significant amount of time outdoors or in dry environments, consider more frequent applications to maintain optimal lip hydration. 

Listen to your body—if your lips feel dry or start to chap, applying lip balm promptly can help prevent further discomfort. 

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR FOR MY CHAPPED LIPS

If your chapped lips persist despite consistent home care efforts or if you notice any concerning symptoms, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Signs that may warrant a visit to the doctor include severe or persistent dryness, cracking, bleeding, or the development of sores on your lips. 

Additionally, if you experience inflammation or notice any unusual changes in the color or texture of your lips, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. These could be indicators of underlying issues that require specific medical attention. 

If you have tried over-the-counter remedies without improvement or if your chapped lips are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, scheduling an appointment with a doctor will help identify the root cause and determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your specific condition.

CONCLUSION

Persistent dryness and peeling of the lips can be attributed to various factors, including dehydration, excessive licking, environmental exposure, and inadequate lip care. Adopting a consistent routine of hydration, using a suitable lip balm, and protecting the lips from harsh conditions can contribute to healthier and more nourished lips. If issues persist, consulting with a healthcare professional may provide further insights and tailored solutions for optimal lip care.

Moisture Miracle: Unveiling the Best Lotions for Dry Skin

Are you struggling with your skin getting dry out ? Dry skin can be a persistent issue that causes discomfort for many people. It is a problem for people of all ages, from youngsters to the elderly and can be caused by many factors, such as environmental conditions, genetics and aging. And here comes a range of hydrating lotions to help you with that stubborn issue. Moisturizing is the key to avoiding dry skin and maintaining healthy skin and it can not be missed even a single day. Though dry skin may be more of a risk in colder temps, you should be moisturizing daily, and all year round.

There are many lotion products available in the market. However, it is hard to find the best lotion for dry skin among all of those. Knowing your concern, in this article, we will list some of the lotions that can offer true relief for people with this problem. Let’s see what is the right one for you. 

How to Choose the Right Body Lotion for Your Skin? 

Buying a moisturizer seems easy but imagine wandering the skin care aisle to find a potential body lotion among numerous products. It doesn’t sound simple as you think at first. 

So, how to know what is the right one for you? Here are some factors for you to consider before making a decision. 

No matter what type of skin you have, a moisturizer is required to maintain healthy and glowy skin. If you wanna find a lotion for itchy dry skin, ointment is a good choice. Creams are thinner and most suitable for normal skin, while lotions, which is the lightest since its main ingredient is water, work well with every type of skin. 

If you have other problems related to the skin, consider the ingredients to find which one is the best to help address your concerns. For example, for people with dark skin, dry areas may be more noticeable. So choosing the products with ceramides, glycerin, caster oil included. 

Yet, what to avoid in a body lotion? Dermatologists advise you to avoid too much acid in your lotion, especially salicylic acid as it may cause irritation for dry and sensitive skin. Remember to choose a product without fragrance and color rings. No one knows whether you are allergic to them or not.  

Top 5 Body Lotion for Healthy and Super-Smooth Skin

Vichy Ideal Body Lotion Serum-Milk

When mentioning body lotion with hyaluronic acid, Vichy Ideal Body Lotion Serum Milk can’t be missed. The word “acid” in the ingredients can be concerning to many people as “acid” is usually associated with burning. In contrast, hyaluronic acid is a very gentle skincare ingredient, and the fact that it holds hydration 1000x its weight makes it 1000 times incredible. The HA ingredient in this product can help to keep your skin dewy and plump all day long. 

As for the 10 botanical oils which are also included, they work best to encourage smoothness and radiance. Moreover, mineralizing water contains 15 essential minerals to strengthen your skin’s natural moisture barrier protection. When applied, the body lotion provides a nongreasy finish and it is very quick-absorbing, as many users have said. This product is very gentle and has been allergy-tested. 

The reviews for Vichy Ideal Body Lotion Serum-Milk on Amazon are generally positive, with a focus on its effectiveness in addressing dry skin concerns. Also, many users have praised its hydrating properties, saying that it provides long-lasting moisture and improves the skin’s texture. Additionally, its pleasant scent is a big bonus. 

However, some people have noted that it doesn’t offer enough hydration for extremely dry skin, so double-check before purchasing this product. 

Eau Thermale Avène XeraCalm Lipid-Replenishing Cream

This has been the best lotion for extremely dry skin for years and has been recommended by many dermatologists. The cream is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic so it is suitable for those whose skin is very sensitive. It can comfort very dry skin prone to itchy thanks to vitamin E and ceramides included in the ingredients.  

Eau Thermale Avène XeraCalm Lipid-Replenishing Cream has received highly positive responses from many consumers who have experienced relief from dry skin. It is said to be very effective in hydrating and soothing their skin. Its rich formula is loved by many people as it helped them to restore the skin’s barrier and provide long-lasting moisturizing. Also, many have noted that their inflammation is reduced significantly. Although few comments are saying that the scent is somehow too strong for them,  Eau Thermale Avène XeraCalm Lipid-Replenishing Cream can be a good investment if you don’t mind the smell. 

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

The Hydro Boost Water Gel is one of the brand’s best-selling products. Being a water-based body lotion with hyaluronic acid included, this Neutrogena moisturizer keeps the skin supple and well-hydrated. With its incredible ability, it has been many customers’ first choice for years. Hydrating moisturizers are usually geared toward people with dry skin, but those with oily skin also need hydration as it may help to improve the texture and restore the barrier. This moisturizer is oil-free and non-comedogenic, and the water gel formula absorbs quickly in the skin that won’t clog your pores, making it a suitable choice for those with oily skin. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel has gained surprisingly positive feedback. People appreciate its ability to hydrate properties, it replenishes moisture in the skin without leaving a greasy finish. They also note that this product can be worn under the makeup, before the foundation step, providing a smooth base. Though there are still a few bad responses about how this product causes breakouts on their face, or some reported that this makes their face look shiny like a mirror, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is still one of the best-selling products on many shopping platforms. 

Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion 

The fact that Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion has been the best dermatologist-recommended body lotion for dry skin has made it become one of the most popular products when it comes to moisturizer. It is a lightweight, oil-free lotion that helps hydrate the skin and restore its natural barrier, like other products. However, its ability won’t make you regret it. This daily moisturizer leaves the skin feeling comfortable and is gentle on the skin as it provides 24-hour hydration.

It is hard to find negative feedback on this product as the reviews for Cerave Lotion are overwhelmingly positive. Users have mentioned that this lotion helps to alleviate dryness and is highly moisturizing. With HA and ceramides being included in the formula, it can replenish and retain moisture as well as restore the natural barrier. Those with sensitive skin also noted that it is very gentle on the skin and didn’t cause allergy or redness on their skin. The absence of fragrance makes this product more suitable for people with sensitive skin. 

Cocokind Sake Body Lotion

Cocokind Sake Body Lotion is ideal for building your skin barrier backup as well as smoothing enzymes and microbiome-friendly prebiotic sugars thanks to sake. It is fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. This body lotion delivers gentle exfoliation and supports the skin moisture barrier, leaving skin soft, smooth looking, and comfortable. Shea butter and sunflower oil are highlighted ingredients in the formula, they are high in linoleic acid and vitamin E which bring moisture, improve skin elasticity as well as protect the skin barrier. However, with shea butter being non-comedogenic, I won’t recommend this product to people with oily acne-prone skin since it may cause breakouts on your face. 

CocoKind Sake Body Lotion has received mixed reviews from many users. Some praised its ability to absorb quickly in the skin. Also, the inclusion of some ingredients such as sake was mentioned, saying that they help to improve skin elasticity and leave their skin feeling soft and smooth. However, the scent somehow is too unpleasant for many people. Additionally, the texture was said to be thin and watery, resulting in difficult application.   

How to Apply Body Lotion?

a young woman applies lotion for her legs

Applying body lotion is a simple and effective way to keep your skin hydrated and nourished frequently. Below is a step-by-step instruction on how to apply body lotion properly : 

First is to choose the right lotion which is suitable for your skin. Remember the chosen product can meet your demand and can help to address your concerns. 

After purchasing, the next step is to prepare. Cleanse your skin before applying lotion to make sure that your skin is clean and dry. Take a shower or bath and gently pat your skin dry with a towel.

Then, take an appropriate amount by dispensing enough lotion onto your palm. Starting with a small quantity and adding more if necessary. Rub your palms together to spread the lotion for easier absorption. The next thing you need to do is to apply it on your skin in gentle, upward motions. Keep in mind to focus more on dry areas, and then cover other parts like legs, arms, and torso. Don’t forget to massage in a circular motion as it will help to absorb better as well as improve blood circulation. 

Remember to apply lotion frequently as consistency is the key. Adding it to your daily routine is important to maintain well-moisturized and healthy skin. 

Finding the best lotion for dry skin is essential to achieve healthy skin. To find the right one among those options available, always remember to consider factors such as skin type, ingredients, and reading reviews before purchasing. Apart from selecting steps, discovering how to apply the lotion properly is also important as it will do more good than harm. Above are some of our recommendations, hoping you can find the best one for you. By prioritizing consistent skincare habits and using the best lotion for your dry skin, you can bid goodbye to discomfort and say hello to a nourished, radiant complexion. A new world of skincare is waiting for you, let’s go!