salt air lip balm

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.

15 BEST SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONERS THAT WORK FOR ALL HAIR TYPES

Every healthy head of hair starts with a decent shampoo and conditioner set. There is no one-size-fits-all formula for hair wash routines, which is why it’s critical to discover one that works for your hair type and concerns. So how can you determine which combination of shampoo and conditioner is best for you? If you haven’t figured this out, let us help you decide with these 15 best shampoos and conditioner combos.

BRIOGEO SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

This product is appealing since it combines the functions of a shampoo and a hair mask, saving you one extra step in your shower regimen. The revolutionary mixture is made to thoroughly clean and condition hair without causing color fading or weighing down individual strands. This shampoo, which contains rose oil, panthenol, biotin, and algal extract, is supposed to be ideal for people with dry or damaged hair. Fighting dry hair is essential, especially in the winter, and you’ll be amazed at how hydrated your hair feels after using Briogeo’s products. 

R+CO TELEVISION PERFECT HAIR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

This shampoo and conditioner set, designed to work with all hair types and textures, adds shine and helps to strengthen and smooth hair. Panthenol, glycerin, and babassu-seed oil provide moisture to the hair, while juniper-berry extract helps regulate oil production on the scalp. Furthermore, the extract from marigold flowers hydrates the scalp, helping to get rid of dandruff. 

REDKEN SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

If your hair is severely damaged and dry, you’re definitely searching for a drastic fix. Redken’s Extreme Strength Restore Shampoo and Conditioner are specifically formulated to strengthen and restore hair that has sustained ongoing damage. As it cleans, the shampoo reconstructs the entire hair, from roots to ends, using a unique RCT Protein Complex. Redken’s Strength Complex, which is composed of arginine and other amino acids to leave your hair stronger and help prevent future damage, fortifies and protects the hair in the conditioner. Redken’s Extreme Strength Repair method will make your hair look and feel smoother, shiny, and fully restored.

RAHUA HYDRATION SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Your hair may feel dry for a variety of causes, such as overusing heated hair tools or being outside in the sun while UV rays are present. However, this hydrating pair is working to undo that damage. Rahua nut oil is added to the creamy-textured, sulfate-free Rahua Hydration Shampoo, which has a mango and passionfruit scent and fortifies hair. In order to provide an additional moisture boost, the omega-9-rich material is also injected into the Hydration Conditioner. Try Réduit’s One Gold Spa Skincare and Haircare Treatment Device if you need a pick-me-up. You may put conditioning capsules into the ultrasonic device, and it will distribute the product evenly throughout your hair in portions for optimal strand coverage.

KERASTASE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Thanks to Kérastase’s Curl Manifesto Bain Hydration Douceur Conditioner, your naturally occurring coils will adore you. The four-year development process resulted in a proprietary ceramide that strengthens and locks in moisture while also increasing elasticity for defined and bouncy curls. Additionally, it assists in giving hair more elasticity and strength for defined, bouncy curls. Manuka honey also keeps hair from becoming brittle by keeping moisture in your hair’s cuticles for softness and shine. A tip for styling hair? Use a microfiber towel to remove any remaining moisture; this will assist your curls in maintaining their structure and avoid frizz during the drying process.

SHU UEMURA SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

If you’re hoping for large, voluminous waves, try using a lightweight shampoo that won’t make your hair appear greasy. What is everyone’s favorite combination? Shu Uemura Muroto Volume Shampoo and Conditioner: An Art of Hair Art. Shu Uemura, a Tokyo native who became the first Japanese makeup artist in Hollywood, is recognized for his formulae fit for the red carpet. He held the opinion that your hair is a blank canvas that can be fashioned into an endless variety of exquisite looks. To give your hair body and structure, this Volume Shampoo contains Himalayan crystal minerals. The saltwater will boost your hair when paired with the seawater-infused hair mask.

AVEDA ROSEMARY MINT SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Sebum is beneficial to hair, but too much of it can make your hair look oily and slippery. Look for peppermint-infused shampoos and conditioners, as the herb helps balance your scalp’s pH to control oil production. An additional scalp saver? vinegar in white. It de-tangles hair cuticles and takes out oil with gentleness. Both are combined in Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, which will thoroughly clean your hair without removing the vital essential oils that give it a natural sheen and smoothness. The accompanying conditioner is incredibly delicate and contains both spearmint and peppermint to gently untangle strands.

DRY BAR ON THE ROCKS SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Use of clarifying shampoo: why? Product accumulation, however, can dry out and weigh down hair. In addition to any residue, a clarifying shampoo is used to get rid of any leftover chlorinated water that could weaken hair. Drybar’s elucidating On the Rocks Vegetable proteins are added to charcoal shampoo to strengthen hair, and activated charcoal can absorb up to 200 times the weight of your hair in pollutants before being washed away. The Drybar On the Rocks Lightweight Conditioner, which smells of ginger, mint, and sandalwood, is also included in our list of the top 11 shampoos and conditioners because macadamia oil rapidly hydrates and detangles hair, while coriander seals the hair cuticle to increase shine. 

CHRISTOPHE ROBIN COLOUR SHIELD SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Utilize this hair care set by Christophe Robin to keep colored hair looking bright and fresh. In order to prevent color fading caused by frequent hair washing and hard water, this hair hero is carefully made with phytosterols from crambe oil to establish a protective layer over hair shafts and preserve vibrancy. Use the creamy-textured Christophe Robin Colour Shield Mask after shampooing if your hair has been colored, bleached, or highlighted. Vitamin C and antioxidants boost collagen levels in your scalp, strengthening your hair.

BIOLAGE HYDRASOURCE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

The HydraSource Shampoo and Conditioning Balm from Biolage can help your hair get balanced hydration, less frizz, and smooth out split ends. The main ingredient in both products, aloe, has anti-inflammatory properties and offers natural hydration, so it will nurture and calm the scalp while assisting in deep hair moisture. By reducing static in the hair, the HydraSource Conditioning Balm is designed to eliminate frizz and flyaways. Your hair’s capacity to retain an ideal moisture balance will rise by a factor of 15 when you use both of these products in your regimen. If you want to make your hair softer, healthier, and simpler to manage, this combination from a reputable brand is a good option.

OGX SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

OGX, which is well-known for producing hair products made of coconut and without sulfates, adopted a new strategy with its Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner. The nourishing argan oil in the shampoo works in tandem with its coconut-based cleansers to eliminate grime and pollutants without depleting the hair’s natural moisture content. The conditioner also includes a nourishing blend of avocado oil, cacao seed oil, coconut oil, and aloe leaf juice in addition to argan oil. This strong but mild blend will shield your hair from damage and leave it silky. Hydrolyzed keratin fortifies your hair and brings out its inherent beauty by adding an additional layer of strength.

VEGAMOUR HYDR-8 SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Try Vegamour’s HYDR-8 Shampoo and Conditioner if you want stronger, sleeker hair as quickly as possible (or if, like us, you just adore the rose-gold package). Using a unique vegan silk substitute called Karmatin instead of keratin and silicone, this potent combination claims to increase the moisture content of your hair eight times in just one application. Karmatin forms a link with the hair strands to fortify and restore any damage that may be causing your locks to appear lifeless and parched. Additionally, Vegamour offers a money-back guarantee and claims that this mixture will keep your hair nourished for 72 hours after application.

OLAPLEX SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Olaplex has created a combination that is meant to repair damaged, dry hair. No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, one of their best-selling products, uses their bond-building technology to reconstruct broken hair links at the molecular level. This shampoo is a good option if heat damage, frizz, or overall hair health are your main concerns. No. 5: Upkeep of Bonds In order to coat the hair and form a durable seal for the newly formed hair links, conditioner applies a thin but effective layer of moisture. As your hair starts to recover, you’ll notice a noticeable difference very soon, leaving it silky, smooth, and free of tangles.

AVEENO OAT MILK BLEND SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Aveeno began utilizing the inherent moisturizing properties of oats in their hair and skin care products long before oat milk lattes became fashionable. With a nourishing blend of sweet almond seed extract, colloidal oatmeal extract, and other calming components, the shampoo gives just the right amount of moisture to your hair without making it feel greasy. Both products are free of dyes, parabens, and sulfates, so your hair will retain its delicious oat-almond hydration blend. The conditioner is mild enough for regular use. A few times a week, try using the Oat Milk Blend Leave-in Milk in place of the conditioner for an even stronger hydration boost.

JVN SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

The Nurture Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner from JVN were designed to hydrate damaged hair and prevent frizz. The main component, hemisqualane 101, naturally protects against breakage and damage while maintaining the color of your hair and has better protective properties than silicones. The conditioner’s pillowy texture adheres to hair just enough to provide it with a thick, nurturing layer of hydration, but it rinses clean with no residue left behind. With notes of lemon and blackcurrant blended with musky white orchid, sandalwood, and vanilla, the fragrance is reminiscent of a summer garden.

You may be the kind of person who always tries something different when it comes to shampoo and conditioner, or you may have been using the same two bottles for years. In any case, you should consider whether you’re wearing the proper pair for your hair. We’ve compiled the best shampoos and conditioners for color-treated, frizz-fighting, and anti-aging hair—yes, it’s a thing—so wash, rinse, and repeat for the healthiest possible hair.