Our lips are often the most neglected part of a skincare routine. Yet the skin on our lips is thinner than elsewhere on the face and has no oil glands of its own, so it dries out easily. Dry winter air, harsh summer sun, air conditioning and the habit of licking our lips all take their toll. A simple routine can keep your lips soft, comfortable and healthy.
Common lip concerns
- Chapping and peeling, often worse in winter or air-conditioned rooms
- Cracks at the corners of the mouth
- Darkening, which can be linked to sun exposure, smoking, dehydration or friction
- Irritation from certain lipsticks, toothpastes or flavoured balms
Habits that dry out lips
Before adding products, check if any of these habits are working against you.
- Licking your lips. Saliva evaporates quickly and leaves lips drier than before.
- Peeling or biting dry skin, which can cause bleeding and irritation.
- Long-wear matte lipsticks worn daily without a balm underneath.
- Not drinking enough water.
- Breathing through the mouth, especially at night.
A simple daily lip routine
Morning
- Apply a lip balm with SPF before heading out. Lips can tan and darken just like the rest of your skin.
- If you wear lipstick, use a thin layer of balm first and let it settle for a minute.
Through the day
- Reapply balm after eating and drinking.
- Keep a balm in your bag, desk drawer and near your bed.
Night
- Remove lipstick gently with a little oil or micellar water, never by rubbing hard.
- Apply a thicker balm or a thin layer of petroleum jelly, ghee or a nourishing lip mask before sleeping.
Choosing a good lip balm
Look for balms with occlusive and nourishing ingredients such as petroleum jelly, shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, ceramides or plant oils. These help seal in moisture.
Be cautious with balms that contain strong fragrance, menthol, camphor or cinnamon flavours. They may feel tingly and refreshing, but can irritate already dry lips.
Gentle exfoliation
When lips feel flaky, a gentle exfoliation once a week is enough.
- Apply balm, wait a few minutes, then gently rub lips with a soft, damp washcloth or a soft toothbrush in small circles.
- A homemade mix of a little sugar with honey can be used very gently, then rinsed off.
- Always follow with a thick layer of balm.
Do not exfoliate cracked, bleeding or sore lips, as this will make them worse.
Caring for darkened lips
If your lips have become darker over time, these steps may help them look healthier and more even.
- Wear lip balm with SPF every day.
- Keep lips well moisturised.
- Avoid smoking.
- Check whether a lipstick or toothpaste might be irritating your lips.
- Be patient; changes take weeks.
Avoid applying lemon juice or bleaching products to the lips, as these can cause irritation.
Seasonal adjustments
- Winter: Reapply balm more often and consider a humidifier if your room is very dry.
- Summer: Prioritise SPF and stay hydrated.
- Monsoon: Lighter balms may feel more comfortable in humid weather, but keep up the habit.
Hydrate from within
Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and healthy fats supports overall skin health, including your lips. Frequent cracks at the corners of the mouth can sometimes be linked to nutritional deficiencies or infections, so do not ignore them if they persist.
Small effort, big comfort
Lip care takes only seconds a day. Stop licking, apply a good balm often, add SPF in the morning and a rich layer at night. Your lips will feel softer and look healthier in no time.
Note: This article offers general guidance only; if you have persistent cracking, sores or swelling on your lips, please consult a dermatologist.
