5 Sneaky Lip Care Tricks the Beauty Industry Won't Tell You (But We Will)

As the temperatures drop, chapped lips seem to become a harsh reality for many of us. The dry air and cold winds strip our lips of their natural moisture, leaving them dry, cracked, and painful. But what if we told you that there are some simple, budget-friendly ways to keep your lips smooth and hydrated all winter long? A beauty expert has shared her top tips for preventing chapped lips, and they're easier than you think.

1. Exfoliate your lips with a homemade scrub. The beauty expert recommends mixing one tablespoon of sugar with one tablespoon of olive oil to create a gentle yet effective lip scrub. Massage the mixture onto your lips, paying special attention to any areas that are particularly dry or chapped. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. This will help remove dead skin cells and leave your lips feeling smooth and supple.

2. Use a humidifier in your home. Dry air is one of the main causes of chapped lips, so by using a humidifier to add moisture back into the air, you can help prevent dryness before it starts. This is especially effective in the bedroom, where you spend most of your time sleeping. Just be sure to clean and maintain your humidifier regularly to avoid any bacterial buildup.

3. Choose a lip balm with natural ingredients. Many commercial lip balms contain harsh chemicals that can dry out your lips even further. Instead, opt for a balm that contains natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients will help lock in moisture and protect your lips from the elements.

4. Stay hydrated from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your skin, including your lips, hydrated and healthy. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks that can dry out your mouth. You can also eat foods that are high in water content, such as watermelon or cucumber, to help keep your lips hydrated.

5. Avoid licking your lips. It may seem counterintuitive, but licking your lips can actually make them drier in the long run. When you lick your lips, you're removing the natural oils that help keep them hydrated. Instead, apply a lip balm or chapstick throughout the day to keep your lips moisturized.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your lips smooth and hydrated all winter long. No more chapped, cracked, or painful lips - just soft, supple lips that are ready to take on the cold weather. So next time you're tempted to reach for a commercial lip balm or scrub, remember: the solution to your chapped lip problems may be simpler than you think.