Can You Get Rid of Chapped Lips?

Real talk: Dry lips are the absolute worst. Ugh, seriously. Unfortunately, with the weather starting to get cooler, chapped lips may be a very real concern. The air gets drier and so do your lips—but you don’t have to grin and bear it. There are steps you can take, from updating your skin care routine to swapping out your go-to lipstick, to help keep your pout as soft and smooth-looking as possible. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure chapped lips aren’t part of your beauty look.

CAN YOU GET RID OF CHAPPED LIPS?

We hate to say it, but you can’t snap your fingers and get rid of chapped lips—no matter how nice that would be. Don’t get too upset, we can offer you one better—preventing chapped lips from making their debut in the first place. Maintaining a lip care routine meant for dry lips will help keep them hydrated, smooth, and chap-free.

What about if it’s too late to talk about prevention? If your lips are already chapped and you’re looking for ways to minimize chapping, we’ve got you covered. Follow our six chapped lip beauty tips whether you want to avoid chapping altogether or are looking to minimize the effect the chilly air has had on your pout.

TIP #1: STOP LICKING YOUR LIPS

Whether it’s a force of habit or you truly believe that licking your lips can help with hydration, it’s time to make a resolution to stop. Why, you ask? Well, it turns out that licking your lips is one of the worst things you can do. Sure, it’ll give you some temporary relief when your lips feel dry but licking your lips can actually exacerbate dryness. Yikes!

TIP #2: BREATHE THROUGH YOUR NOSE

This may sound silly, but hear us out: Since breathing through your mouth can produce moisture much like licking your lips, something as simple as breathing through your nose can help keep your lips from becoming dry—especially during the cooler fall and winter months.

Editor’s tip: Can’t help but breathe through your mouth when you sleep? Be sure to apply a conditioning lip mask before bed!

TIP #3: EXFOLIATE YOUR LIPS

If you have dead skin cells on the surface of your lips, this could prevent lip conditioners from being able to do their thing. So, slough away buildup by exfoliating your pucker and you’ll be left with lips that feel fresh and look smoother. While you shouldn’t exfoliate already chapped lips—due to risk of irritation—you can use this as a preventative method. Try the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Cocoa Scrub, which is formulated with three pure sugars, coconut oil, finely crushed cocoa, and cocoa butter. Bonus: The scrub can be used on your lips and your face!

TIP #4: INVEST IN A LIP BALM

Right after you exfoliate, you should apply a hydrating lip balm. During the daytime, consider opting for a balm that’s formulated with not only nourishing oils but broad-spectrum sunscreen. While you may not realize it, the sun can dry out and even burn your lips, contributing to chapping. No thanks!

At night, swap your lip balm with SPF for one with a pretty tint. The L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick Glossy Balm will give your lips a dose of pigmented shine while soothing and comforting.

TIP #5: USE A CONDITIONING LIPSTICK

While matte lips are totally on-trend right now, it can be wise abstain since matte formulas are often drying. This is especially a good idea in the winter when the dry air is likely already doing a number on your skin. Of course you don't have forgo lip color. Simply reach for a lipstick with a creamy texture like the L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipstick Lipcolor. This lipstick is formulated with vitamin E, argan oil, and Omega 3. If you aren’t ready to part with a matte finish, just make sure your matte lippie has a hydrating formula. The L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick will coat your lips in rich, matte color while also giving them intense hydration.

TIP #6: AVOID ALLERGENS

One way you could be drying out your lips is coating them with irritants and allergens. If your skin is sensitive to begin with, you may need to avoid lip products with fragrances or dyes in them.

In need of more help with taking care of your skin as the seasons change? Head over to our article, 5 Changes to Make to Your Skin Care Routine This Fall.