How to avoid or fix your chapped lips this winter.

by Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, M.D. Charlotte Skin & Laser

Polar vortex indeed.
This winter has been a harsh one, and the cold temps, dry air and wind take a toll on your skin and most especially your lips.  Splits and cracks and peeling lips are not just a cosmetic problem – they hurt and can predispose your lips to infections and allergic reactions. The key to preventing & treating chapped lips is to keep them well moisturized and protected from harsh wind and cold, dry air.

Take these steps to keep your lips in top shape:

1. Don’t lick your lips – Repeat cycles of moisture cause evaporation on the skin surface and worsening dryness.
2. Avoid picking, peeling or biting off dry skin flakes. Try moistening lips with a wet washcloth and then apply Vaseline ointment or aqauphor and repeat as needed.
3. Do not use a brush or harsh rubbing to remove flakes – just gently roll off any that come up with very gentle pressure when applying ointment.
4. Moisturize very frequently – Plain Vaseline or Aquaphor ointments are great but don’t last long on the lips. Try Avene Cold Cream Lip Balm for more long lasting and more deeply penetrating moisture. Also Skin Ceuticals Hydrating B5 gel, which is awesome for your face and neck, can also help boost hydration of your lips.
5. Avoid long last lip stick – always! It is just too drying for your lips.
6. Also avoid lip balms with menthol, camphor and eucalyptus – these ingredients can cause dryness, irritation and allergic reaction.
7. Put a thick layer on your lips before outdoor activitiest. Theraplex emollient has a small bit of wax blended in so that the ointment stays in place longer – perfect for skiing, jogging and other winter outdoor activities.
8. Always apply a treatment before you go to sleep, as that is an optimum time to rehydrate for several sedentary hours.  An emollient like Theraplex is also great for overnight lasting power.

MYTHBUSTING on chapped lips:

• Your lips cannot be addicted to lip balm. If you feel your lip balm is making your lips more dry try one of the suggestions above which contain no ingredients that can be drying to your lips.
• Drinking lots of water will NOT help your lips – the lips need moisturizer and protection from the outside.

For more information on how & why to keep your skin moisturized , here are our Tips on How to Avoid Dry, Itching Winter Skin.

www.charlotteskinandlaser.com
130 Providence Rd #100, Charlotte, NC 28207
Phone:(704) 333-9113

Dr. Elizabeth Rostan is a cosmetic dermatologist trained in both laser and cosmetic surgery, and began her practice in Charlotte in 2001. She continues to stay current on the latest rejuvenation techniques and procedures in order to help women achieve their cosmetic goals comfortably and confidently. At Charlotte Skin & Laser, the experienced, caring staff focuses on a patient-centered approach to promote healthy skin and healthy lifestyles. Outside the office Dr. Rostan enjoys wine, shoes, golf, horse riding, exercise and relaxing with her husband and 2 dogs Scooter and Lucy (sign up for our newsletter to see their crazy pictures). Enjoy her skin tips at www.scoopcharlotte.com & www.charlotteskinandlaser.com.