By ADITHI RAMAKRISHNAN, Related Press Science Author
NEW YORK (AP) — A tube of lip balm might look like the proper antidote to dry, cracked lips.
However do these over-the-counter merchandise soothe flaking or can they make it worse?
Although dry lips can occur year-round, they’re commonest throughout the winter. The chilly outdoor paired with the low-humidity indoors can strip moisture from smooth, pillowy lips.
Lip balm can assist seal moisture into the lips, mentioned Dr. Jenna Lester.
“That is a good barrier for the external forces,” like in opposition to chilly wind, mentioned Lester, a dermatologist at UCSF Well being.
Does lip balm work?
For many, lip balm is a worthy ally within the battle in opposition to chapped lips. However some individuals can’t take fragrances, flavors and preservatives present in in style balms. When utilized, they will sting as an alternative of soothe.
“Those are the people who will say, ‘I tried these things. I thought my lips would get better, but they just keep getting worse and worse,’” mentioned Dr. Caroline Mann, a dermatologist at Washington College College of Medication in St. Louis.
Components to look out for embody flavoring components and lanolin, a waxy substance that comes from sheep and is discovered in lots of moisturizers. A preservative referred to as formaldehyde and an ingredient in chemical-based sunscreens referred to as oxybenzone can even set off allergic reactions.
These allergic reactions are pushed by our immune programs, Mann mentioned. They will occur at any time, after any variety of product makes use of and might final for months after utilizing.
A fragrance-free, petroleum-based balm — generally listed as petrolatum on the label — will be the most secure wager for individuals with delicate lips, dermatologists advocate.
How one can soothe chapped lips
There are many methods to appease dry lips with out lip balm. Think about protecting lips with a shawl when outdoors or operating a humidifier indoors to stave off the dry air. Dehydration may cause dry lips so ingesting water is one other secure wager.
One reflex to keep away from: lip-licking. Whereas licking lips might present short-term reduction, the saliva can evaporate shortly and suck extra moisture together with it, drying lips out much more.
When you in the reduction of on balms however your lips are nonetheless stinging, think about seeing a dermatologist to be taught extra.
“If you do these things, you’ll get through the winter with soft, supple lips,” Mann mentioned.
The Related Press Well being and Science Division receives help from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Instructional Media Group and the Robert Wooden Johnson Basis. The AP is solely chargeable for all content material.
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