FIVE ways to...
KEEP YOUR LIPS HEALTHY IN WINTER
“WINTER is a real trigger for dry skin,” says Dr Emma Wedgeworth, dermatologist and skincare expert for Blistex.
“The drop in temperature alongside a low UV index and low humidity causes a reduction in the hydration levels of the skin and causes our skin barrier to become more fragile.
“This is why we are much more likely to see dry, flaky lips at this time of year.”
Here, Dr Wedgeworth offers five tips to help keep your lips healthy and hydrated in winter...
Dr Emma Wedgeworth
Don’t lick your lips:
SALIVA is very alkaline, whereas our skin is naturally acidic. This means saliva can act as a potent irritant to the skin. The act of licking also removes the natural oil layer from the skin.
Choose cosmetics carefully:
LIP cosmetics are the most common cause of allergic reactions to the lips. If you are using lipsticks or glosses, choose a nourishing formula, which won’t dry your lips out.
Be careful with skincare:
IF YOU are using active skincare products like acid toners or retinols, your lips will be very prone to drying out.
Avoid the lip area altogether and apply a hydrating lip product before you use your active skincare over the rest of the face.
Rehydrate regularly:
IF YOUR lips aren’t producing enough oil naturally in the winter, using a carefully chosen lip balm will replenish the lipids and compensate for the loss of moisture.
Try Blistex intensive moisturiser cherry SPF15, £2.69, Boots.
Don’t pick your lips:
IT’S very common for people to pick off those pesky flakes that develop on the lips. However, this can be damaging for the skin, causing a cycle of bleeding and flaking. Hydrating the lips regularly will help to reduce the flakes from developing.