How to take care of your lips in winter: a complete guide
Why do lips become chapped in winter?
Chapped lips are one of the most common skin complaints in winter. The causes include:
- Cold outdoor air: Chilly winds strip away natural moisture.
- Dry indoor heating: Central heating systems lower humidity indoors, further dehydrating the skin.
- Temperature changes: Moving between heated buildings and the cold outdoors puts stress on delicate skin.
- Lack of natural oil barrier: Lips do not produce their own protective oils, making them more susceptible to cracking and irritation.
When combined, these factors lead to dryness, flaking, and painful splits. For some, cold weather can also trigger cold sores, adding another layer of discomfort.
Common mistakes that make chapped lips worse
Many habits unintentionally aggravate dryness and slow down healing. Here are some behaviours to avoid:
-
- Licking your lips: Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips even drier.
- Biting or peeling dry skin: This can cause bleeding and infection.
- Over-exfoliating: Harsh scrubs damage fragile skin and worsen irritation.
- Using fragranced products: Ingredients such as menthol, camphor, or strong flavourings can cause stinging or allergic reactions.
- Skipping sun protection: UV rays are still present in winter and can damage lips.
- Licking your lips: Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips even drier.
Ingredients and habits that actually work
A successful lip care routine depends on using the right ingredients and sticking to good daily habits. Look out for these categories of ingredients:
1. Occlusives (lock in moisture)
These create a protective barrier over the skin, preventing water loss. Examples include:
- Petroleum jelly
- Beeswax
- Lanolin
2. Emollients (soften and smooth)
These fill in gaps between skin cells, making lips feel smoother:
- Shea butter
- Plant oils (such as jojoba or almond oil)
- Squalane
3. Humectants (draw water into the skin)
These hydrate by attracting water from the environment or deeper skin layers:
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Aloe vera
💡 Tip: Humectants work best when layered with an occlusive. Without this step, they may actually dry your lips further.
4. Hydration from within
Do not underestimate the power of drinking enough water. Even mild dehydration shows on your lips quickly.
A daily lip care routine for winter
Keeping lips healthy does not have to be complicated. Here’s a simple day-to-night plan:
Morning
- Apply a lightweight balm with SPF before leaving the house.
- If you commute or spend time outdoors, reapply every couple of hours.
During the Day
- Top up balm after meals and hot drinks.
- Keep a small stick or tube in your pocket or bag.
Evening
- Remove any lip products gently with a soft cloth or cleanser.
- Once or twice a week, use a very gentle exfoliation (like a damp muslin cloth) to remove flakes.
- Apply a thicker balm or ointment before bed to allow overnight repair.
Weekend lip reset: a pampering ritual
Once a week, dedicate 10–15 minutes to a focused lip care routine:
- Warm compress: Press a warm, damp cloth against your lips to soften skin.
- Gentle exfoliation: Lightly buff with a soft cloth or sugar-based scrub (only if your lips are not cracked).
- Hydrating mask: Apply a generous layer of balm or natural oil and let it absorb.
- Overnight treatment: Seal in hydration with an occlusive layer.
Pair this with using a humidifier at night – it helps your lips, skin, and even sleep quality.
Protecting against cold sores and cracks
Cold weather is a common trigger for cold sores and painful cracks at the corners of the mouth. To reduce the risk:
- Keep lips moisturised and avoid licking them.
- Use a scarf to protect your mouth in strong winds.
- At the first sign of tingling or soreness, isolate the area and keep it clean.
- Do not share lip balms or utensils if you are prone to cold sores.
If cracks or sores persist for more than two weeks, or if they worsen despite home care, seek advice from a pharmacist, GP, or dermatologist.
A 7-day plan to softer lips
Day 1–2: Focus on repair. Apply a thick, protective balm morning and night. Avoid any exfoliation.
Day 3–5: Continue with daily SPF protection and hydration. Stop licking or biting lips.
Day 6: Do a gentle exfoliation followed by an overnight balm mask.
Day 7: Reassess. Your lips should feel smoother and more comfortable. Continue the habits that worked best for you.
Repeat this cycle weekly throughout winter for consistently healthy lips.
Lip care FAQ
Do I really need SPF on my lips in winter?
Yes. UV rays penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow. A balm with SPF 15 or higher is recommended.
Does exfoliating cure dryness?
No. Exfoliation only removes dead skin; it does not replace lost moisture. Always follow with hydration and protection.
Why do the corners of my mouth keep cracking?
This could be a sign of angular cheilitis, a common condition caused by dryness, irritation, or sometimes fungal infection. Persistent cases should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Is licking my lips really that bad?
Yes. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips drier than before. It can also introduce bacteria and irritate the skin.
Summary: key takeaways
- Winter lips suffer from a mix of cold, wind, and indoor heating.
- Avoid harmful habits like licking or biting lips.
- Choose products with occlusives, emollients, and humectants.
- SPF is essential year-round, even in the UK winter.
- Regular routines and weekly rituals keep lips soft and healthy.
How Injector Maya can help
At Injector Maya, we know that healthy lips are not just about comfort – they are also about confidence. While daily lip care is essential, some people find that their lips still appear thin, lack volume, or lose definition with age. Our clinic in High Wycombe offers safe, professional treatments such as:
- Lip hydration boosters to improve softness and elasticity.
- Subtle lip contour enhancements to restore natural shape.
- Advanced rejuvenation treatments tailored to your needs.
All treatments are carried out by a qualified aesthetics nurse, with a focus on natural-looking results and safety. If you want to complement your at-home winter lip care with professional support, book a consultation today.
Book Your Consultation Today
👉 Book your personalised consultation today at:
www.injectormaya.com or call 07402 297086.
Rediscover your confidence with Injector Maya — where science, care, and natural beauty come together.
