Chapped lips are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental conditions, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions. Here are some details on what causes chapped lips and what ingredients to look for or avoid in lip products:
Causes of chapped lips:
- Cold or dry weather
- Sun exposure
- Frequent licking of lips
- Dehydration
- Allergic reactions or irritant contact dermatitis
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Medical conditions such as eczema, irritable bowel disease, or autoimmune disorders
- Certain medications
Ingredients to avoid in lip products:
- Flavors
- Fragrances
- Preservatives
- Salicylic acid
- Menthol
- Camphor
Ingredients to look for in lip products:
- Glycerin
- Castor seed oil
- Castor wax
- Ceramides
- Lanolin
- Shea butter
- Vitamin E
It is important to note that some lip balms can actually make lips feel drier and more chapped over time if they contain irritating ingredients causing contact dermatitis. Therefore, it is recommended to use non-irritating lip balm, lipstick, and other products that you apply to your lips. If your lips burn, sting, or tingle after using a lip product, stop using that product. It is also important to protect your lips from the sun using a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
