Our beautiful lips are among the most fragile skin on our body, and they take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’. I think we can all agree that cracked, chapped, peeling and flaking lips feels unhealthy and can be bothersome. Needless to say, It’s especially important to maintain a regular lip care regimen that promotes healing and health.

Consider these dos and don’t when caring for your lovely lips.

DON’T

• Lick your lips. I know, this is a big one for a lot of us. However, licking helps to draw moisture from your lips leaving it even more dehydrated and even drier.
• Bite, nibble nor pick at your lips. Aside from causing irritation to the already fragile area, the open skin can be prone to infection.
• Use spicy foods or acidic substances if your lips are chapped. They will cause further irritation.

DO

• Drink lots of water. Hydrating and replacing lost moisture is important, especially in the winter when it’s not apparent that water loss is taking place.
• Exfoliate your lips two to three times per week with an exfoliating agent like sugar (see recipe at the end). This will remove dead and flaky skin.
• Moisturize with a light, lip balm, that contains SPF 8 or more. Because of its thin and fragile nature, lips are more prone to sunburn and further thinning.

SIMPLE LIPS SCRUB RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1/2 Tsp of organic brown sugar
• 1/4 Tsp of olive oil
• 1/4 Tsp honey
• 1/4 Tsp coconut oil (optional)

Preparation and Use

• Combine sugar, honey, and oils in a small bowl
• Using your fingers, apply a small amount to your lips. Be sure to rub gently.
• Cleanse with lukewarm water. Tap dry with a clean towel.
• Apply your regular lip balm or use a dab of olive oil on your lip.

***this can be done 3 to 4 times per week.