In winter, lips often dry out and start to peel from frost and wind. Lipsticks then apply unevenly, the usual balms are almost ineffective, and it feels like the skin is tight and overly sensitive. However, restoring smoothness and softness to the lips is quite possible — if you know which scrubs really work and which products restore. Cosmetologist Irina Gorlova proposed a working scheme for choosing hydration and nourishment so that the lips truly recover, rather than just shine.
First, Assess the Scale of the Disaster
A scrub that you are eager to use is not always necessary. If the lips are peeling but without deep cracks, a gentle peeling will help. "If there are painful cracks, bleeding fissures, inflammation along the contour, any aggressive movements will only worsen the situation. In this case, a healing balm should be applied first, and the scrub can be returned to once the skin calms down. A useful rule: if it hurts even to smile, no peeling. First recovery, then everything else," warns the expert.
How to Choose a Scrub: The Finer the Grain, the Better
The task of an exfoliant is to gently remove dead cells, not to polish the lips to a glossy state (which is frankly impossible). A good option is products based on sugar, fine salt, crushed pits, or oats with added oils and waxes. They melt from the warmth and make the delicate skin smooth and soft. It is advisable to avoid large abrasives and harsh home experiments like baking soda and a toothbrush. Such care breaks the protective barrier, and the lips start to dry out even more.
Day Balm: Protection and Comfort
A good balm should be applied every day, even if it is relatively warm outside and the lips feel relatively good. "Look for waxes (beeswax, candelilla), shea butter, jojoba, avocado oils, squalane, panthenol, vitamin E in the composition. They soften, retain moisture, and create a thin protective layer against wind and frost. In winter, formulas with light SPF are especially useful if you spend a lot of time outdoors, in the mountains, or by the water. However, menthol, camphor, and 'burning' components that create a tingling effect often only increase dryness and irritation," explains the cosmetologist.
Night Lip Mask
At night, the lips recover best, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of this. Thick masks or simply a very rich balm with active ingredients applied in a generous layer before bed work like a compress. In the morning, the skin is softer, minor peeling disappears, and cracks become less noticeable.
Proper Use
There are a few simple rules that make any scrub and balm more effective. Do not rub the lips dry with a towel after a shower, but just dab them. Do not lick your lips outdoors, even if you really want to — all this only further dehydrates the skin. First scrub (if necessary), then balm or mask. And another important point: during the active recovery period, it is advisable to take a break from ultra-matte lipsticks and long-lasting tints. They dry out and draw moisture, no matter how much balm is underneath.
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