Cold, wind, and dry air make lips vulnerable in winter. Licking only exacerbates the problem—we explain why and how to properly care for them.
In winter, lips become chapped more than the rest of the facial skin. The main reason is their unique anatomy. The cells of the lips are six times thinner than the skin of the face and lack a natural protective fatty layer. The mucous membrane of the lips contains almost no fats, so in cold and dry air, they quickly lose moisture, crack, and peel. In severe cases, a red border appears and cheilitis develops.
Many try to moisturize their lips with saliva, but this is categorically not recommended. Saliva contains enzymes—amylase and lipase—that break down the protective layer and further irritate the skin. As saliva evaporates, the lips lose moisture even faster, resulting in the opposite effect of what is expected.
Experts recommend using only moisturizing balms and oils for lips in winter, especially those with natural ingredients, free from dyes, preservatives, and fragrances. The balm should be applied before going outside and periodically reapplied during walks to avoid cracks and dryness.
