How to Eliminate Chapped Lips

Keep containers of lip balm handy -- in your home, office and car.

Dry, chapped lips can be a pain -- literally -- especially in winter. Wind and sun rob your lips of moisture, leading them to crack and bleed in the worst cases. Licking your lips can make the problem worse. You can eliminate chapped lips by using the right topical treatments and by hydrating your body from the inside.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• 4 tablespoons walnut oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 teaspoon honey
• essential oils

Instructions

1. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drinks. Having enough water will keep all your skin -- including your lips -- moist and less likely to chap. Men should aim for 13 cups of water and women should drink 9 cups, according to the Mayo Clinic.

2. Use lip balm with petroleum jelly and SPF to seal in moisture and protect your lips from harmful sun rays.

3. Avoid licking your lips. When the saliva dries, it will leave your lips even drier.

4. Use a humidifier in your home or office to keep the air moist.

Tips & Warnings

• It will probably take a couple of weeks to notice a difference in your dry lips when you start to take Omega-3 capsules. Keep it up because it's worth it.

• Homemade lip balm should be very lightly scented with essential oils. Don't overdo because they can be quite powerful.

References

• Mayo Clinic Water: How Much Should You Drink Every Day?