As the weather cools down, many of us find ourselves dealing with the familiar discomfort of dry, chapped lips. It’s a universal struggle that can be frustrating and painful, leading us to reach for quick fixes like cheap lip balms or, worse, licking our lips—which only makes things worse. But why do our lips dry out so easily, and what can we really do about it? Dermatologists, who deal with this issue themselves, have some smart advice to share on why it happens and how to treat it effectively. The key lies in understanding the unique nature of the skin on our lips and the habits that can make things better—or worse.
The skin on our lips is incredibly delicate, thinner than the skin on the rest of our body, and it lacks the oil glands that help keep other areas of our skin moisturized. This makes lips more prone to dryness, especially when the air becomes less humid. Dermatologist Dr. Saami Khalifian explains that the lack of oil glands means lips lose moisture faster, making them more susceptible to dryness and flakiness. Additionally, lips are constantly exposed to saliva, which can evaporate quickly and further dry out the skin. While it might seem like a harmless habit, licking your lips can lead to what dermatologists call “lip-licker’s dermatitis,” a irritating rash that can develop on the lips and around the mouth. It’s a vicious cycle: licking provides temporary relief but ultimately worsens the problem.
So, what can you do instead? Staying hydrated is one of the simplest and most effective solutions. Dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry recommends drinking plenty of water to keep your body—and your skin—hydrated from the inside out. She also suggests using an indoor humidifier to add moisture back into the air, which can help prevent your lips from drying out in the first place. Of course, lip balm is a go-to solution, and it’s something you should keep handy—whether on your nightstand, in your car, or at your desk. But not all lip balms are created equal, and some can actually make the problem worse. Despite the occasional urban myth about becoming “addicted” to lip balm, dermatologists are quick to reassure us that this isn’t the case. “Your lips can’t develop a tolerance for lip balms,” says Dr. Jennette Graf. If you find yourself reapplying balm constantly, it’s likely because your lips are simply drying out again, not because your body has become dependent on the product.
When it comes to choosing a lip balm, the ingredients matter. Dermatologist Dr. Corey Hartman recommends looking for hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, which can help moisturize and protect the delicate skin on your lips. Beeswax and petrolatum are also great for locking in moisture. On the flip side, there are ingredients you should avoid. Alcohol and menthol, for example, can dry out and irritate the skin, making things worse. Dermatologist Dr. Mojgan Hosseinipour notes that some popular brands, like Blistex, Carmex, and Burt’s Bees, contain ingredients such as camphor, menthol, and propolis, which can be irritating and exacerbate dryness. It’s worth taking a closer look at the label before you buy.
Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent lip balms on the market that can help restore your lips to their natural state. Aquaphor Lip Repair is a no-frills option that’s highly recommended by dermatologists like Dr. Khalifian and Dr. Abrahem Kazemi. It’s moisturizing, protective, and free of fragrances and preservatives, making it a great choice for sensitive lips. For something a bit more advanced, Dr. Dylan Greeney swears by Remedy for Dry Lips, a newer product that actively hydrates the skin with ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and squalane. Other standout options include EltaMD UV Lip Balm, which provides SPF protection, and Dr. Dan’s Cortibalm, which contains hydrocortisone for more severe cases of chapped lips. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, Rhode by Hailey Bieber Peptide Lip Treatment is a popular choice, with ingredients like shea butter and cupuacu to hydrate and plump the lips.
Maintaining healthy lips isn’t just about the products you use—it’s also about the habits you adopt. Avoid licking your lips, and steer clear of flavored lip balms that might tempt you to do so. Instead, apply a high-quality lip balm regularly, especially before bed and in dry environments. If your lips are severely chapped, a thin layer of Vaseline or an ointment containing hydrocortisone can provide the extra protection they need. With the right care and attention, your lips can stay soft, smooth, and healthy—no matter the weather.
