Fighting dry lips: How to choose the right lip balm for cold and windy weather

The skin on our lips is unlike any other; it's incredibly thin and fragile, leaving it prone to damage. Even a simple gust of wind or a brisk temperature drop can cause it to dry out, hence the need for unique care instructions.

Many drugstores offer a variety of lip balms claiming to moisturize or soften lips. However, the composition of the majority leaves much to be desired. So, how can you select a product that truly protects your lips from becoming chapped? What should you consider? Let's dive in.

Distinct from other skin, lips lack sebaceous glands, which means they are naturally devoid of the lipid layer that moisturizes and nourishes the skin, protecting it from harsh weather conditions such as frost, wind, or intense sunlight. But that's not the only issue. Cracked lips can also result from body dehydration. It is crucial for everyone to consume at least half a gallon of water per day. And we mean water; drinks like coffee and tea have diuretic effects that only exacerbate dehydration.

An abrupt drying of the lips can also result from an allergic reaction to a new cosmetic product, cream, mouthwash, or even certain foods. This is worth noting, particularly for those who don't typically struggle with chapped lips.

Before purchasing a lip balm, scrutinize the ingredients to avoid further drying

As we've established, the lips require careful treatment. Regular use of a moisturizing lip balm becomes crucial. While many of us are swayed by colour or scent, this approach is flawed, as products containing fragrant or colouring agents can further dry out the lips' skin.

Before adding a lip balm to your basket, be sure to inspect the ingredient list. Search for elements such as lanolin, shea butter, beeswax, or castor oil. Lanolin, a wax derived from sheep skin, may not sound appealing, but this component is highly effective. It moisturizes, lubricates, and smooths, and is usually well-tolerated by the skin.

Shea butter and castor oil nourish the skin, preventing dehydration. Beeswax, a key ingredient in so-called cold creams or those that guard against frost and wind, forms a protective barrier on the skin, keeping it from losing water naturally. If at least two of the mentioned ingredients are present in the lip balm, then you can rest assured that the product will help return softness to your lips.