Chapped lips occur when the lips lack sufficient moisture. The condition may be due to dry weather, sun exposure, fever or repeated biting of lips. The lips are a very sensitive area of the body, and the skin in this area can be easily damaged. Chapped lips are painful and may even bleed, so they should be treated. There are a few home remedies that can relive the discomfort.
1. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly can efficiently hydrate the skin and is safe to be used on the lips. Apply the jelly at least twice per day or as many times as you feel your lips are dry. The petroleum jelly may also be used before going to bed. Apply a more generous layer of jelly and allow the skin to absorb it. Don’t rip the skin that is peeling off, as you could cause bleeding.
2. Wet Cloth
Use a wet cloth soaked in lukewarm tea. This is a good solution to keep your lips hydrated when you have a fever. Apply the cloth for 10 to 15 minutes and after, apply a lip balm of petroleum jelly, which will seal the moisture. Repeat the procedure a few times during the day.
3. Drink Water
Hydration is essential for the body and will help in the chapped lips treatment. Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day, or you may also drink teas or eat soups. Reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake, as these are diuretics that will only dry the skin more.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
An aloe vera gel can help reduce the dryness of the skin and will also soothe the irritated areas. The gel can be applied as many times as needed. The gel you choose should contain natural ingredients mainly and no fragrance or other artificial colorants, which can irritate the lips.
5. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices can moisturize the lips and soothe them. Keep the cucumber in the fridge, as the cool cucumber will reduce the swollen lips. The cucumber slices can be applied several times per day. The cucumber is guaranteed not to contain harmful chemicals. After applying the slices, you can use a lip balm to lock in the moisture.
6. Over the Counter Creams
Chapped lips may be prone to infections, so you may opt for an over the counter antibiotic cream. Most antibiotic creams contain a high percentage of moisturizing agents, so they will not dry the skin.
7. Essential Vitamins
The vitamin intake may not have an immediate effect on healing the chapped lips, but if taken regularly, these will prevent chapped lips. It is important to get supplements such as vitamin A, B vitamins and iron.
Vitamin A is particularly important and contributes to skin repair. There are a few foods that contain vitamin A including:
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Green leaf vegetables
- Whole grains
- Peas, beans, corn or lentils
