Truth be told, I love winter. My skin and lips though? Not so much. Factors like cold temperatures, lower humidity levels, indoor heating and windy weather all contribute to dreaded moisture loss.
Even habits we don’t really think about like licking our lips throughout the day (I’m guilty of this) can make the problem worse. I’ve rounded up the most useful lip care tips to keep your pout in tip-top condition this winter:
My current lip care hero: FILORGA Hyalu-Filler Lips
1. Use a Lip Treatment Regularly
It may sound obvious, but consistency is key.
Applying a lip product only when your lips are already dry isn’t always enough. Instead, try applying a nourishing treatment throughout the day to help protect the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
Look for nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter, squalane and vitamin E.
One lip product that’s at the top of my favourites pile is FILORGA’s Hyalu-Filler Lips. The twist-pen treatment combines hyaluronic acid and shea butter to help hydrate and smooth the lips while delivering a subtle plumping effect. I particularly enjoy using it during the day because it leaves lips feeling soft and nourished without feeling heavy. Buy it here.
Keeping a lip treatment within easy reach - whether it’s on your desk, in your handbag or next to your coffee cup is a game-changer and makes it far easier to reapply consistently throughout the day.
2. Apply a Nourishing Lip Product Before Bed
One of the easiest ways to wake up with softer lips is to apply a generous layer of a nourishing lip treatment before going to sleep. Overnight, your lips have several uninterrupted hours to absorb moisture and recover from daily environmental exposure. Think of it as a night-time barrier cream for your lips.
If your lips are particularly dry during winter, this simple step can make a noticeable difference by morning.
3. Stop Licking Your Lips
Here lies of the most common causes of persistent dryness. While licking your lips may provide temporary relief, it often leaves them drier in the long run. If you find yourself doing it regularly, keep an easy-to apply lip treatment close-by instead. The easier it is to reapply, the less likely you’ll be tempted to lick your lips.
4. Stay Hydrated
Hydration starts from within.
While drinking water won’t magically cure dry lips, dehydration can contribute to overall skin dryness, including on the lips. Making sure you’re drinking enough fluids during winter can support healthier-looking skin overall. Warm herbal teas, water-rich foods and keeping a water bottle nearby can all help make hydration easier during the colder months.
5. Exfoliate Gently
If your lips are flaky, gentle exfoliation can help remove loose, dry skin. The key word here is gentle, by the way. Over-scrubbing can damage the delicate skin on the lips and worsen irritation. Focus on restoring moisture and supporting the skin barrier afterwards.
Tip: A soft washcloth used after cleansing is all that you need to keep flaky lips at bay.
6. Don’t Forget SPF
Many people associate sun protection with summer, but UV exposure occurs all year-round. The lips are particularly susceptible to sun damage, which can contribute to dryness, pigmentation and premature ageing. Whether you’re heading out for a winter walk, spending time outdoors on a sunny day or enjoying a weekend away, don’t forget that your lips need protection too.
7. Be Careful With Long-Wear Lip Products
Some long-lasting lipsticks and ultra-matte formulas can feel drying, especially if your lips are already dry. Consider alternating with more hydrating formulas or applying a nourishing treatment underneath your lipstick if you want to wear matte lip products. In my books, a strong, healthy lip barrier trumps the look of a matte lip colour on dry, flaky lips.
My Winter Lip Essential
Like I mentioned earlier, this winter, FILORGA’s Hyalu-Filler Lips is always within close range (that is, unless my toddler’s gotten hold of it first. She loves unpacking my handbag!).
It gives the lips a subtle pink, glossy sheen and has a plumping effect. 1-2 twisty clicks release more than enough formula and a little truly goes a long way. It’s ideal for those ‘no make-up, make-up’ days and makes you feel more put together when you’re not in the mood for any effort.
The winning combo of hyaluronic acid and shea butter ensure that your lips get proper protection from the cold winter weather and indoor heating at home. Buy it here.
All in all, healthy lips don’t require an elaborate routine.
A few simple habits and lifestyle changes like using a lip treatment consistently, avoiding lip licking, staying hydrated and protecting your lips from the elements can go a long way towards keeping them hydrated throughout winter.
What’s your go-to winter lip care hack?
Let me know below.