Winter may bring cozy sweaters and festive cheer, but it also comes with its own set of beauty challenges—especially when it comes to your lips. The cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating can leave your lips dry, chapped, and uncomfortable. With a little extra care and the right products, you can maintain soft, smooth, and healthy lips all winter long. Here’s your ultimate guide to winter lip care:
(COVER PIC CREDIT: Hyphen)
Stay Hydrated
Your lips reflect your body’s hydration levels. Drinking plenty of water is key to keeping them moisturized from the inside out. Herbal teas and warm water with lemon are great winter-friendly options to stay hydrated.
Exfoliate Gently
Dead skin buildup can make your lips appear dry and flaky. Use a gentle lip scrub made with sugar and honey or invest in a lip exfoliator to slough away dead skin. Remember to exfoliate only once or twice a week to avoid irritation.
DIY Lip Scrub Recipe:
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon honey
- A few drops of coconut oil
Mix, gently rub on your lips, and rinse off for instantly smoother lips.
Choose the Right Lip Balm
Not all lip balms are created equal! Look for products containing nourishing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, or natural oils like almond or coconut. Avoid lip balms with artificial fragrances, menthol, or alcohol, as these can dry out your lips further.
Pro Tip: Opt for a lip balm with SPF to protect against sun damage, even in winter.
Protect Your Lips Outdoors
Cold winds can wreak havoc on your lips. Before heading out, apply a thick layer of protective balm to shield them from the elements. Wrapping a scarf around your face can also help minimize direct exposure.
Avoid Licking Your Lips
It’s tempting to lick dry lips for temporary relief, but this habit only worsens the problem. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier than before. Instead, keep your favorite lip balm handy and reapply as needed.
Incorporate a Nighttime Lip Treatment
Nourish your lips overnight with a hydrating lip mask or thick balm. This allows ingredients to sink in while you sleep, ensuring you wake up to softer lips.
Quick Winter Lip Care Dos and Don’ts
Dos:
- Do apply lip balm frequently, especially after eating or drinking.
- Do drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Do use a humidifier indoors to combat dry air.
Don’ts:
- Don’t peel or bite flaky skin—it can lead to bleeding and infections.
- Don’t use matte lipsticks without a hydrating base underneath.
- Don’t ignore your lips during your skincare routine; they deserve just as much attention.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]