What could be worse than cracked peeling lips that are as dry as sandpaper and feel like they’re on fire? Not only are dry lips uncomfortable, but they are obviously unattractive.

I never let my lips get dry, thanks to my regular routine which keeps my pout perfectly pretty. It is so easy to maintain, mess-free, and one of the most important steps of my beauty regimen.

Here is how I keep my lips well-hydrated, even in the dead of winter when cold temps can have their way with them. If you are dealing with dry lips, don’t frown – it is simple to solve the problem and get those luscious lips you have been longing for.

 

Don’t Lick

If your lips feel dry, you may have the inclination to lick them to add moisture. This works temporarily, but the common habit actually leads to even more dryness. Break the cycle and apply a lip balm instead. I look for balms made of natural/organic ingredients, like Honest or Burt’s Bees. Burt’s Bees’ Vanilla Bean Lip Balm is amazing. Just don’t be tempted to taste it!

Natural ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil are terrific for hydrating, so keep your eyes open for these elements when you’re selecting a lip balm.

Applying hydrating balms as an overnight routine is one of the best ways to maintain your lips, as you have hours for your lips to absorb the treatment products and repair. Don’t skip this evening routine, and by morning, your lips will be luscious. Without interruptions like eating/drinking, talking, kissing, etc., your lips get the biggest benefit as you drift off into your sweet dreams.

 

Drink Up

Your dry lips could be a reflection of your body’s overall hydration situation, or lack thereof. Be sure to stay well-hydrated – drink at least eight glasses of water per day. When you don’t get enough fluid, your skin…including the skin on your lips will get dry. The flaking is no fun, so get your generous gulps in pronto. This inside-out treatment is beneficial in more ways than one.

 

Exfoliate

A lip scrub will slough off the dry and peeling skin that is making your lips look less-than lovely. You need to be extra-gentle, and once your lips are silky smooth, use the aforementioned balm to keep them that way.

Again, Burt’s Bees is winning the lip game with their Conditioning Lip Scrub. Made with honey, it is super soothing and smells sweet. You can also whip up your own DIY batch at home using some honey, granulated sugar, and a little olive oil. Mix together and use your fingertips to gingerly rub away those nasty flakes, adding much-needed nourishment to your lips along the way.

 

SPF

Just like the rest of your skin, your lips need to be carefully protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Be sure to apply a lip-safe sunscreen before heading out, especially if you’ll be outdoors for an extended period of time.

Lots of lipsticks and balms, like this one by Neutrogena contain SPF, so get the 2-in-1 benefit by choosing such a product.

When your lips are hydrated and smooth, your lipstick/gloss application will be flawless. You’ll be irresistibly kissable too!