Winter is officially here, and that means it's time to bring out the cosy sweaters, hot cocoa, and yes, your lip care essentials. Our lips tend to get affected badly when it’s cold and dry outside, and dealing with chapped, peeling lips is no fun for anyone. If you’re tired of cracked lips and want to keep them soft and smooth all season, here’s your guide to winter lip care that’ll keep your lips happy, hydrated, and ready for any close-up.
1. Take Hydration Seriously
We all know drinking water is essential, but it’s easy to forget to hydrate when it’s cold. Dry, winter air and indoor heating can dehydrate us faster than we think, and our lips are often the first to show tell-tale signs. Keeping a water bottle nearby and sipping throughout the day will do wonders to keep your lips—and your whole body—hydrated. Not a fan of cold water in winter? Try warm herbal teas for a cosy, hydrating alternative.
2. Choose A Lip Balm That Works
Finding the right lip balm can make all the difference. Look for ones with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and natural oils (like coconut or jojoba oil). Avoid balms with artificial fragrances, alcohol, or menthol, as they can dry out or irritate your lips. For an extra layer of protection, try a balm with beeswax or lanolin, which can help lock in moisture.
Make reapplying a habit. Applying lip balm just once or twice a day won’t cut it in the winter. Try to reapply it every few hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
3. Exfoliate The Right Way
If your lips are already dry and flaky, a gentle exfoliation can help slough away dead skin. Just remember, lips are delicate, so be kind! You can make a DIY lip scrub with a mix of honey and sugar (yep, it's that easy). Gently rub it over your lips in slow, circular motions, rinse with warm water, and follow up with your favourite lip balm. You’ll be left with smooth, flake-free lips that are ready to soak up all the moisture they can get.
4. Protect Your Lips Outdoors
Cold air and wind are some of the biggest culprits behind dry lips. Before stepping outside, make sure you’ve applied a thick layer of protective balm. If you’re skiing, hiking, or doing any outdoor activity, consider using a lip balm with SPF. Even though it’s cold, UV rays can still harm your lips, making them even more vulnerable to chapping.
5. Treat Your Lips To A Mask
Lips need a little extra love in the winter, and a lip mask can be just the thing for a deep treatment. If you haven’t tried one before, these masks are like super-charged lip balms, delivering intense moisture overnight. You can find ones with hyaluronic acid, squalane, or vitamin E for an extra boost. Apply a generous amount before bed and wake up with soft, plump lips that feel great.
6. Break The Licking Habit
It’s super tempting to lick your lips when they’re feeling dry, but this habit is a total moisture-killer. The enzymes in our saliva actually break down the skin’s protective barrier, causing even more dryness and chapping. Instead, make sure to reapply your lip balm whenever you’re feeling the urge to lick your lips, and keep it within reach so it becomes second nature.
7. Avoid Matte Lipsticks (Just For Now)
We love matte lipstick as much as the next person, but in winter, they can be particularly drying. If you still want a pop of colour, look for hydrating or satin-finish formulas that won’t sap moisture from your lips. And if you’re really attached to your matte, try applying a nourishing balm underneath or going for a tinted lip balm instead. Your lips will thank you!
8. Humidify Your Home
If you’re cranking up the heat at home, you’re likely drying out the air, which impacts your skin and lips. Using a humidifier can help add some much-needed moisture to the air, keeping your skin and lips from drying out too quickly. It’s a small investment but can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the winter.
9. Stay Consistent With Your Routine
Taking care of your lips in winter requires a bit of consistency. Keep your lip balm on hand, and make it part of your daily routine to reapply and layer on the moisture. Think of it as an ongoing process rather than a quick fix, and your lips will stay smooth and hydrated from the first frost to the last.