MAINE, Maine — So now that we're getting closer to winter, it's time to protect yourself from the elements.
Most importantly, your hands, face, and specifically your lips.
Have you ever heard someone say that consistently using lip balm can make your lips even drier?
As temperatures drop and the air gets drier, lip balm is going to be a staple before you head out the door.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, it's a myth.
They say lip balms do not stop your body from generating its own moisture around your lips. The ingredients are actually the key because some can make your lips drier instead of hydrating them.
You want to avoid ingredients like phenol, menthol, and salicylic acid because they can actually make your lips drier. Then you need to reapply more often to keep your lips feeling hydrated, and then you're stuck in a viscous cycle.
Lip balm containing some scents, flavorings, and artificial coloring can also cause irritation to those who are more sensitive.
So...what should you look for in a lip balm? You'll want to search for a petroleum-based product. It will help keep your lips moist, which will help prevent chapped lips in the first place.
You also want to choose a lip balm with at least 30 SPF as UV rays can cause chapped lips and dryness.
Last, a few tips to keep your lips hydrated all winter long. You're going to want to avoid licking your lips because that can dry them out.
Give lip scrubs the cold shoulder because they strip your skin and compromise the skin barrier.
And last, but not least, don't pick your lips when they are flaky. That exposes the fresh skin to the air before it's ready, which then causes more irritation.
So when you're at the store grabbing a new tube of lip balm, take a few minutes to look at the ingredients before putting it in your cart.
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