13 February Lip Care Mistakes That Keep Lips Feeling Chapped

As winter lingers, chapped lips can become an ongoing struggle, especially when February brings even more dryness. You might be unknowingly doing things that make your lips feel worse. Often, small lip care mistakes can lead to cracked, uncomfortable lips. But with a few changes, you can keep your lips feeling smooth and hydrated.

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Neglecting Lip Hydration During Winter

Skipping hydration is a common mistake, especially during the colder months. When the air is dry, lips lose moisture more quickly, leading to chapping and cracking. To prevent this, make sure to use a hydrating lip balm regularly, especially before going outdoors. Choose balms with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or beeswax, which create a barrier and lock in moisture.

A good lip balm should be applied several times throughout the day, particularly in the morning and before bed. Be mindful of balms with added fragrances or menthol, as they can irritate sensitive lips. Make it a habit to drink plenty of water too, as hydration from the inside out helps your skin stay moisturized.

Overusing Lip Scrubs

While lip scrubs can be helpful in removing dead skin, overusing them can damage the delicate skin on your lips. Frequent exfoliation can lead to irritation and leave your lips more prone to dryness. If you’re using a scrub, limit it to once a week and always follow with a rich lip balm to seal in moisture.

Instead of scrubbing daily, opt for a gentler approach, such as applying a moisturizing lip mask once or twice a week. Exfoliating too often strips your lips of their natural oils, which are necessary for keeping them soft and healthy. Take it easy on exfoliation to prevent further damage.

Using Lip Products with Harsh Ingredients

Some lip balms or glosses contain ingredients like alcohol or artificial fragrances, which can actually dry out your lips. These products may offer temporary relief, but they can make your lips feel worse over time. Be sure to check the ingredients list for alcohol or preservatives that can strip moisture from your lips.

Choose lip products made with natural, soothing ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil. These ingredients provide longer-lasting hydration without the risk of drying out your lips. Switching to gentler, hydrating products can make a significant difference, especially in colder weather.

Licking Your Lips to Moisturize

It’s common to lick dry lips in an attempt to moisten them, but this actually makes the problem worse. The saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips drier than before. Instead of licking your lips, apply a hydrating lip balm to lock in moisture and prevent further chapping.

If you find yourself licking your lips out of habit, try to keep a lip balm nearby for easy access. Consider using a balm with a thicker consistency to create a barrier that lasts longer. Over time, your lips will become less reliant on licking for moisture.

Skipping Lip Protection in Cold Weather

Just like your skin, your lips need protection from the cold, wind, and harsh elements in February. Failing to protect your lips when outdoors can lead to painful chapping and cracking. Always apply a thick layer of lip balm with SPF before leaving the house, especially on windy or sunny days.

Additionally, covering your lips with a scarf or face mask when you’re out in extreme cold can provide extra protection. The added layer will shield your lips from the direct exposure to the elements, keeping them soft and moisturized. Don’t forget the SPF, as the sun’s rays can still cause damage even in winter.

Forgetting to Moisturize Overnight

Overnight care is just as important as daytime protection for your lips. Many people neglect to apply lip balm before bed, which leads to dryness by morning. To avoid this, apply a thicker lip balm or a special overnight treatment that nourishes your lips as you sleep.

Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or nourishing oils to restore moisture overnight. Make it part of your nightly routine to lock in hydration while you rest. Waking up with soft, plump lips will set the tone for the rest of your day.

Not Adjusting Your Lip Care Routine for the Weather

As the temperature drops, your lips require more moisture and protection. Using the same lightweight lip balm during winter that you used in summer may not be enough to protect your lips. During colder months, switch to a richer, more emollient formula that can withstand the drying effects of winter air.

Choose products that create a protective barrier to help prevent moisture loss, such as those containing oils, waxes, or lanolin. Also, adjust how often you apply lip balm, making sure to reapply every few hours or after drinking or eating. This will keep your lips hydrated and protected throughout the day.

Relying on Lip Gloss for Hydration

While lip gloss gives your lips a shiny finish, it often lacks the necessary moisturizing ingredients that keep lips hydrated. Many glosses contain alcohol or fragrances that can dry out your lips over time. Instead, opt for a lip balm with nourishing ingredients that provide long-lasting moisture, and consider using gloss sparingly.

If you enjoy the glossy look, try applying a hydrating lip balm first and then adding a layer of gloss on top. This way, you get the shine you want without sacrificing moisture. Look for glosses with added oils or butters to keep your lips soft while still offering the glossy finish.

Ignoring the Skin Around Your Lips

The skin around your lips can become dry and flaky just like your lips themselves. Ignoring this area can cause irritation and discomfort, which makes it harder for your lips to stay hydrated. Be sure to moisturize the skin around your lips as well to keep everything smooth and protected.

You can use the same lip balm for your lips and the surrounding skin, or opt for a gentle hydrating cream if your skin needs more moisture. Regularly applying products that cater to both areas will keep the skin around your lips soft and help prevent any additional irritation.

Using Harsh Exfoliants on Lips

Over-exfoliating your lips can cause more harm than good, especially when using products with harsh ingredients. If you scrub too hard or too often, you risk damaging the delicate skin on your lips, which leads to dryness and cracking. Instead, use a gentle lip scrub once a week to remove dead skin cells without causing irritation.

After exfoliating, always follow up with a rich lip balm to lock in moisture. If you’re not sure which exfoliant to use, consider natural options like honey and sugar for a more soothing experience. Over time, this will help your lips feel smoother without causing unnecessary harm.

Exposing Lips to Hot Drinks

Drinking hot beverages can lead to burns or irritation on your lips, making them more prone to chapping. While sipping your morning coffee or tea, be mindful of how hot the drink is before it touches your lips. Allow your drink to cool slightly before taking a sip, which can prevent your lips from becoming overly dry or damaged.

Additionally, use a moisturizing lip balm before drinking hot beverages to create a protective layer. This will help minimize the drying effects of hot drinks, keeping your lips more comfortable. Taking simple precautions can help prevent unnecessary lip discomfort from your daily drinks.

Using Expired Lip Products

Lip products do have expiration dates, and using expired lip balm or gloss can irritate your skin or cause dryness. Over time, the ingredients in these products can break down, making them less effective at moisturizing your lips. Check the expiration date on your lip products and replace them regularly.

Always store your lip products in a cool, dry place to preserve their shelf life. If a lip balm or gloss looks discolored or has a strange smell, it’s best to toss it and get a fresh one. Using a new, high-quality product ensures your lips are getting the best possible care.

Not Removing Lip Makeup at Night

Leaving lip makeup on overnight can dry out your lips and lead to chapping. Lipstick and lip gloss can create a barrier that prevents moisture from reaching your lips while you sleep. To avoid this, always remove your lip makeup before bed with a gentle makeup remover or cleanser.

After cleansing, apply a moisturizing lip balm to hydrate and repair any dryness caused by makeup. This simple step helps restore moisture to your lips, ensuring they stay soft and healthy. Keeping your lips clean and hydrated at night is an essential part of an effective lip care routine.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.