GOT THIRSTY LIPS

Just as the rest of your skin, lips require constant hydration, especially during summer. Exposure to sun, high temperatures and strong wind causes the thin defensive layer of the lips to lose its moisture retention capacity. Dry, chapped and inflamed lips as a result? These are signs that the lips are thirsty.

Lips never tan because they lack melanin, but can get sunburnt if not protected. Use balm, lipstick or gloss with a sun protection factor (SPF) or a special care product. Don’t lick your lips in an attempt to moisten them as the saliva contains salts, which cause the lips to crack even more.

Lips require extra care if they are prone to peeling and cracking as this means that they are more susceptible to wrinkling as well. Ensure that you don’t have deficiency of one of the following substances: Vitamin B, iron or essential fatty acids. Don’t lick or bite your lips, because they will crack even more. Remove the dead layer of cells by massaging with a soft toothbrush. Increase your daily water intake.

The basic rule is: Always use hydrating and nourishing balms, lipsticks and glosses that have an SPF factor.