How to heal dry and chapped lips

When cold weather hits, we often focus on updating our winter skincare routines to keep our skin hydrated and protected from the elements — but your lips need some extra TLC too! With thinner, more delicate skin, they’re extra prone to dryness and chapping. The solution? Hydrating balms, nourishing oils and gentle exfoliation. Our guide below has all the details you need to keep your lips healthy this season.

What are the benefits of a daily lip care routine?

Having a daily lip care routine has several benefits that go beyond your aesthetic:

1. Prevents dryness and chapping

Hydration is key to keeping your lips soft and smooth. Therefore, regularly using a nourishing lip balm or oil locks in moisture and protects against harsh climate stressors like cold weather, wind and indoor heating.

2. Improves appearance

Healthy lips look plumper, smoother and more vibrant, giving your complexion a fresh boost. Plus, it’ll make your lipstick and gloss apply more evenly too.

3. Protect against damage

The delicate skin on your lips makes it highly sensitive to sun damage. Make sure to use a lip balm that includes SPF helps shield them from harmful UV rays. This is essential for any winter sun or ski holidays you have in your calendar. 

4. Enhances healing

Regular care, including gentle lip exfoliation, can help heal cracked or damaged lips faster by removing dead skin cells and promoting cell regeneration.

5. Supports your long term health

Preventing dryness, cracks and irritation reduces the risk of infections or conditions like cold sores. A daily lip care routine shields your lips from bacteria and other irritants, ensuring long-term lip health.

An easy lip care routine for healthy, plump lips

Step 1: Exfoliate

Using circular motions, gently massage a lip scrub onto your lips, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Over exfoliating can damage the delicate skin on your lips. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week for best results.

Step 2: Hydrate and nourish

Now that your lips are exfoliated and super smooth, sustain the softness with a lip balm. Ideal for providing an instant burst of hydration, our collection of affordable lip balms in store are the perfect pick-me up pieces you need in your next Primark trip. Lip treatments are also essential for maintaining healthy lips. Luckily, our new PS...Pro collection includes a soothing overnight mask and peptide treatment that sinks beyond the surface of your lips for long-lasting nourishment.

Step 3:  Apply gentle lip products

During the day, a tinted lip balm or lip oil is the perfect fix for lacklustre lips. These 2-in-1 wonders hydrate your lips while giving them the high-shine finish of a gloss. A must-have in your everyday makeup bag.

Tips for choosing the best lip care products  

Choosing the right lip care products will ensure you achieve the best treatment for your lips:

1. Read the ingredients  

Avoid potential irritants like menthol, camphor or synthetic fragrances. These can dry out your lips further.

2. Choose products that suit your lifestyle

For on-the-go care, grab portable lip balms or oils. For a nighttime routine, reach for lip masks or treatments to replenish your lips while you sleep.

Overall, taking care of your lips is easy with these five essential tips:

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.

• Use a lip balm with SPF and moisturising ingredients like shea butter or hyaluronic acid.

• Avoid licking your lips or peeling dry skin.

• Protect your lips with a scarf in harsh weather.

• Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free lip products.