Chapped and rough lips affect men as well as women. Your lips are constantly exposed to a plethora of environmental irritants and other sources of abuse. Failure to protect your lips against sun and wind damage, or mistreating your lips by licking or biting them, can lead to dry, rough lips. This condition is unattractive, uncomfortable and prone to cracking and infection. Fortunately, you can obtain soft, kissable lips with just a few simple changes to your daily routine.
Step 1
Drink more water. Drinking sufficient water, at least 64 ounces each day, will keep your body and your lips hydrated. Using a humidifier inside your home at night also is beneficial, especially if your lips are chapped or rough because of decreased environmental humidity.
Step 2
Exfoliate your lips with a soft-bristled toothbrush after brushing your teeth at night to remove dead skin and make your lips softer. Gently massage your lips with the toothbrush using small, circular motions. Exfoliate your lips for no longer than 60 seconds to avoid irritation. If you notice any redness or experience any pain, reduce the frequency of exfoliation.
Step 3
Use lip balm with built-in sun protection every time you go outside. Your lips are vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun's UV rays just like the rest of your skin. Choose a lip balm with as few ingredients as possible. MayoClinic.com recommends products containing beeswax or petrolatum.
Step 4
Apply moisturizing ointment to your lips before bed. Lip products are available in most retail and drug stores, or you can use olive oil, baby oil or petroleum jelly. You may need to apply moisturizing ointment more frequently during dry, winter months.
Tips and Warnings
- Lip balms and lip care products often are available without color, making them suitable for use by men.
- Avoid using flavored lip balms, as these make it more likely you will lick you lips. While licking your lips provides temporary moisture, it's actually more drying over time, according to MayoClinic.com. Visit your doctor if your lips remain dry, rough or peeling even after making changes in your daily lip care routine. In certain cases, chapped or rough lips may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires professional evaluation and care.
Things You'll Need
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizing ointment
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