What can I do about dry lips?

Your lips are prone to dryness because they lack oil glands, explains Rachel Maiman, M.D., a dermatologist at Marmur Medical.

Here’s what can help:

KEEP THE AIR IN YOUR HOME MOIST

The mixture of chilly or windy outdoor air and dry, heated indoor air will do a serious number on your lips, especially if you’re prone to mouth-breathing at night. “Consider using a humidifier in the house, especially in the bedroom while sleeping,” says Dr. Maiman.

CHOOSE YOUR LIP PRODUCTS WISELY

Steer clear of scented products that can contain skin-irritating chemicals. Choose ones that combine petrolatum with humectants such as castor seed oil, glycerin, and beeswax. “This combo optimizes water content and locks it in,” Dr. Maiman says. And don’t forget your SPF: Dr. Maiman likes a balm with mineral sunscreen.

PAIR YOUR BALM WITH A LIP MASK OR SCRUB

“Designed for use only once or twice weekly, an overnight lip mask is my favorite addition to a daily lip balm regimen,” says Dr. Maiman. It helps return the skin barrier to its natural pH. Also a fan of lip scrubs, Dr. Maiman recommends Fresh Sugar Lip Polish, which has brown sugar crystals to buff away dry skin and shea butter and jojoba oil to lock in moisture.

EDITORS’ CHOICES:

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $22, sephora.com; Fresh Sugar Lip Polish, $18, sephora.com