Dry and flaky lips, how to prevent it and how to repair them

Published: 1 February, 2023 - Updated: 2 February, 2024 | 3'

Why do lips become dry?

The skin contains a layer called the stratum corneum, which acts as a barrier, preventing environmental pollutants and harmful microorganisms from entering and avoiding excessive water loss from the deeper layers of the skin. However, the lips lack a stratum corneum and are particularly sensitive.

Dryness of the lips can be caused by various factors such as sun exposure, wind and cold air, low humidity, allergies, dehydration, smoking, and a lack of essential nutrients in the diet, among others. Let's explore some of these factors in detail.

Chapped lips due to cold weather

Cold weather and sudden changes in temperature can cause dryness, tightness, and peeling of the lips. This occurs because the humidity level in the air decreases, leading to dehydration of the skin, including the lips. Dry skin is more prone to peeling, especially if the lips are exposed to extreme weather conditions and not adequately protected.

Dry lips in summer

Having dry lips in summer can be attributed to various factors. Heat, low humidity, intense sunlight, and temperature changes when transitioning from the hot outdoor environment to air-conditioned indoor spaces can all contribute to dehydration of the skin, including the lips. It is advisable to protect the lips from sun exposure in summer, as it can also cause sunburn, similar to the rest of the skin. To protect the lips from dehydration and sun damage, it is important to use a lip balm with a minimum SPF of 15 and drink enough fluids to stay hydrated.

Balanced diet for lip hydration maintenance

A balanced diet that includes Omegas, vitamin A, vitamin E, and an adequate fluid intake definitely helps maintain the structure of the lips.

The mucous membrane lining the lips has a high lipid content, which not only forms an integral part of its structure but also significantly reduces water evaporation. Therefore, consuming foods that contain Omegas such as fish or flaxseeds, for example, provides important nutrients.

Cosmetic formulations always include a significant contribution of lipids through natural oils like castor oil or butter, such as shea butter.

Vitamins A and E are essential for maintaining the lip mucosa. Vitamin A is involved in the regeneration process, while Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection. You can consume them through fruits, vegetables, and nuts, as well as enhance their benefits through cosmetic formulations.

Other causes of dry lips

In addition to the aforementioned factors, other factors can contribute to lip dryness, such as stress, excessive facial cleansing, allergies, among others.

How to prevent your lips from drying out and peeling

To prevent your lips from drying out, peeling, or flaking, it is essential to keep them hydrated and protect them from the sun and certain environmental factors.

A summary of the guidelines for lip care would be as follows:

Stay hydrated. Drinking enough fluids helps maintain good hydration of both the skin and the lips.
Moisturize your lips. To keep your lips hydrated, it is important to regularly moisturize them. You can use a lip balm with natural ingredients every day.
Use a lip balm with a minimum SPF of 15 to block harmful UVA and UVB rays, especially in summer or if you will be exposed to the sun for a long period of time.
Avoid smoking. Tobacco dries out the skin and, in the case of lips specifically, can irritate and dehydrate them.
Avoid removing peeling skin or biting off "hangnails" on the lips if they are peeling.
Avoid excessively wetting your lips with saliva. Instead, it is better to keep your lips moisturized with lip balms.

How to immediately repair dry lips

In addition to staying hydrated by drinking enough fluids, repairing dry or chapped lips immediately can be achieved by applying a nourishing lip balm.

Repair dry lips all year round with BioAtopic Lip and Nose Balm

BioAtopic Lip and Nose Balm is an intensive repairing balm that moisturizes, protects, and soothes the nose and lips. It contains only natural ingredients. Argan oil, castor oil, and shea butter provide fatty acids or lipids that not only nourish but also help maintain hydration, while the presence of vitamin E and dragon's blood promotes the protection and regeneration of the lip skin.

This balm is perfect for hydrating the lips all year round or during times when they are particularly dry or cracked. It is also ideal for hydrating the external area of a dry nose.

It is suitable for the whole family, including children aged 3 and above. It has been dermatologically tested, has a pleasant strawberry scent, and does not leave a sticky feeling.

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