Swollen, dry, chapped lips happen for a good reason--this very tender part of your body has no oil glands, explains the American Academy of Dermatology, making it difficult to keep them moist and healthy. Chapped lips can happen during any time of the year, but you're more likely to get them if you're exposed to sun, wind and cold. Mouth-breathing during sleep and excessive lip-licking can also cause chapped lips. Home remedies can get dry, swollen lips in tip-top kissable shape.
Moisturize and Protect
Your first line of defense against chapped lips is applying a cream or balm that contains petrolatum or beeswax, say Mayo Clinic experts. Integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil personally recommends lip balms that contain beeswax, turmeric or calendula. The AAD advises choosing a product that contains a sun protection factor of at least 15 to protect your lips from sunburn. If you sleep with your mouth open at night, Weil advises applying moisturizing lip balm before you go to bed.
Just Add Water
Make sure your liquid intake is adequate to avoid dehydration, advises the Mayo Clinic. Also, keep the air in your home moist by using a humidifier.
What to Avoid
Dry lips may feel a little better if you lick them--but don't, cautions the Mayo Clinic, as saliva evaporates rapidly, making them feel more tender than before. Avoid using flavored lip balms and glosses, which may tempt you to lick. Also, Weil cautions against using lipsticks with propyl gallate and toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulfate, which can irritate your lips.
Other Tips
Weil recommends taking a multivitamin that gives you 100 percent of your recommended B vitamins, if the edges of your lips are cracking. Also, bundle up before you go outside on cold days. Wear a scarf that protects your lips from the elements.
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