STYLE

We're suckers for snowy landscapes and hot cocoa breaks, but we have one problem: chronically chapped lips. 

No matter how many times we reapply chapstick, they always seem to prune up. It's time to stop suffering through the chilly months with uncomfortably dry lips. Through a bit of research (and a few secret home remedies), we've compiled five ways to break the chapped-lip cycle that every girl needs this winter. 

Carry lip balm wherever you go

@bskin.bysoda

To combat cracked and chapped lips, slip chapstick into your pocket, keep a tin of balm in your pencil case and stash a stick in the glove compartment of your car. We recommend using lip balms with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, shea butter and honey. You can't go wrong with Aquaphor Lip Repair Stick and Vaseline Lip Therapy. Our underground fave is Palmer's Cocoa Oil Formula Lip Balm. 

Vitamin E oil

Vitamin E is known for smoothing wrinkles, fading acne scars *and* moisturizing skin. Give your chapped lips a natural fix with Vitamin E oil. Cover your entire face (including your lips) in the oil and follow up with Aquaphor. Say hello to refreshed lips.

Lip scrubbers

@girlistick

Silicone lip scrubbers are a lip-care game-changer. While taking a relaxing shower, turn up the temp and gently scrub away the dry skin covering your lips. The steam will allow the dry skin to remove itself easily. We're currently loving the Refresh and Prep Lip Scrubber. After you're out of the shower, apply facial moisturizer and lip balm. If you're heading to bed, use an overnight lip mask. 

Stop licking your lips

Are you constantly licking your lips whenever they feel uncomfortable? Are you doing it right now? Red flag. Your saliva actually does more damage than good to your lips. The enzymes in your spit break down protein over time—that's why they only seem to worsen after you lick, bite or chew your lips for instant relief. 

Overnight lip masks 

@isafey_beauty

After a painful lip day, give yourself some TLC in the form of an overnight lip mask. Lip masks are an awesome way to rejuvenate chapped lips, and you might as well partake in this intense lip treatment while you're busy catching zzz's. You can DIY a lip mask using Vitamin E oil and a generous layer of Vaseline. If you prefer to hit the store, the LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask is a lifesaver! 

Need more winter beauty hacks? Check out these related posts:
❄️ 5 ways to *really* help your hair this winter
❄️ 7 things to know about winter skincare
❄️ Prep your skin for winter with these 5 easy tips

Tag us in your fave winter pics to be featured on our Instagram @girlslifemag!

Slider image @glossier
All GIFs via GIPHY

by Cara Lamina | 2/15/2022