If you want to find the best way to relieve your chapped lips, you need to find out the root cause of the problem first. The different ways to relieve chapped lips may be divided into preventative and restorative categories too, so some balms and salves may not help if you already have a problem. If your lips get chapped due to harsh weather conditions, then you may want to consider petroleum jelly or beeswax, which can prevent chapped lips if applied before you do outdoor activities such as skiing. Another common cause of chapped lips is a vitamin deficiency, in which case the best way to find relief is to alter your diet or take a supplement. In order to relieve chapped lips in the short term, you may also want to apply a commercial lip balm, or try a home remedy such as honey or coconut oil.
Chapped lips can typically be treated through a variety of means, though in order to find the best method you will need to identify the cause of your problem. One common cause is harsh weather conditions, so if you enjoy outdoor activities -- that may be the reason you get chapped lips. In order to prevent chapped lips, you may want to consider applying a sealant before you go skiing or engage in other similar activities. Petroleum jelly is one product that can create a seal and prevent harsh weather from drying out your lips, though beeswax can perform basically the same function and is a little less messy.
Another common cause for the problem is a lack of vitamin B2 in the diet. Riboflavin, which is commonly referred to as vitamin B2, is very important to many different biological functions. A lack of this vital micronutrient in your diet can lead to cracked lips, a sore throat, and other symptoms. If you suffer from this problem, then the best way to relieve chapped lips is to increase your dietary intake of riboflavin, or take a supplement. Many foods, such as leafy green vegetables, legumes, and almonds contain riboflavin.
Many other factors can lead to chapped lips, including allergies, poorly fitted dentures, and various illnesses. If you suspect any of those causes, then the best way to relieve chapped lips will be to avoid allergens, visit your orthodontist, or seek treatment for your illness. After you have addressed the root cause of your chapped lips, the problem will typically subside. If you need relief in the short term though, there are a variety of home remedies and commercial products that can relieve chapped lips.
One way to find short term relief from chapped lips is to apply a thin layer of honey, leave it on for a few minutes, and then remove it with a cotton swab and warm water. Honey has antibacterial properties and may help heal your lips. You may also want to increase your daily water intake, try coconut oil or apply pure aloe vera. If you have sunburned skin in addition to chapped lips, you should avoid applying coconut or any other type of oil. Be aware that a number of commercial lip balms contain sunscreen, which may help prevent the problem in the first place.
