Luscious lips

Some simple solutions could remedy the problem of dried and chapped lips, writes FARZAnA SHAKIR

Whilst a good part of the world is soaking up summer heat, in the southern hemisphere we are bundling up in jumpers and pulling those overcoats a little bit tighter around us to brace against the winter chill. The season for shorter days, winter warmers, hot soups and long nights in electric blankets is well and truly upon us, as are various problems that accompany it. Topping the list are colds, flus, allergies, frizzy and unmanageable hair, perpetually dehydrated skin, and lips that are cracked, chapped and sport a painful, unsightly red halo. Now most of these problems have a quick fix in over-the-counter medicines, cosmetics and products that can give an instant relief, but not for your lips. That’s why you have got to do your homework, remain consistent and follow a right regime to keep that pout in pouting form.

Cracking under pressure

Apart from cold wind that dries out the lips, there are a host of other reasons which can contribute to dry, chapped and ailing lips. Unlike the rest of the skin, lips are devoid of sebaceous glands which produce sebum. In the absence of this natural oil, lips are much more susceptible to drying out than any other part of the body. Some of the most common causes could be loss of moisture and dehydration, a deficiency of vitamins like A, B and E, lack of iron or essential fatty acids, smoking, allergy to some cosmetics, lipsticks or other chemicals, loss of natural oils due to sun exposure, climatic change and the habit of excessive lip licking. Cracked, split lips if left unattended, could progress to a more painful stage where peeling and bleeding may occur, causing infection to develop in the cracks.

Road to recovery

There are however, some simple measures that can be put into place to avoid problems arising from dryness of the lips. Remember to always apply sunscreen on your lips before stepping out. Avoid licking, biting or picking on dry skin on the lips. Gently buff the lips occasionally, using a soft toothbrush to get rid of dead skin. Eat lots of carrots, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables rich in vitamins, and always apply a balm or conditioner before going to bed. Some very effective remedies and lip conditioners can be made using ingredients in your pantry. Here’s what you can do to keep a glossy smile on your dial this winter.

Drink plenty of water

It is essential to hydrate your body from inside during winter. Dehydration is the major cause of lip dryness, so to keep them looking fresh and moisturized, it is important to drink plenty of water during cold weather. You can also combat winter dryness by using a humidifier indoors.

Honey

Honey is one of nature’s miracle products brimming with healing properties. Apply undiluted honey on chapped lips to moisturize and heal instantly. A good conditioner can be made by mixing together honey and Vaseline into a paste. Rub this on the lips and leave it on for ten minutes before removing with a ball of cotton dipped in warm water. Honey is also antibacterial, so applying it on cracked and bleeding lips stops them from becoming infected.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is highly effective in treating chapped lips. Dab a small amount of oil on the lips several times a day and massage using a circular motion, with your index finger.

Rose water and glycerine

To regain lost moisture and bring out a rosy tint to your mouth, try a rose water and glycerine conditioner. Add a few drop of glycerine to rose water or better still, use some crushed rose petals. Apply this concoction to the lips every night before going to bed.

Castor oil

For glossy, smooth and pink lips, massage them with castor oil. Blend one teaspoon each of castor oil, glycerine and lemon juice together to make an excellent lip balm. Apply at night and wipe off in the morning with a cotton ball dipped in warm water.

Thickened cream

One of my personal favourites is the humble thickened cream. Dab a few drops on the lips and work it in to make your lips soft and healthy.

Aloe vera

The amazing healing agents in aloe vera make it ideal as a soothing lip balm. Apply a small amount of gel directly to the lips to heal chapped and rough lips.

Lips are devoid of sebaceous glands which produce sebum. In the absence of this natural oil, lips are much more susceptible to drying out than any other part of the body.

Cucumber

Cut a slice of cucumber and glide it across the lips to relieve the discomfort of chapped lips and aid the healing process.

Shea butter

Shea butter is a very effective moisturizer for lips as it contains so many fatty acids that are needed to retain moisture and elasticity in the skin. Use pure, unrefined shea butter for best results.