Lips lose moisture faster than any other part of the body because the skin is so thin, and lips have no protective hair layer or oil glands. Some tips from our doctors to prevent chapped lips:1) Treat lips as needed with a balm or lip moisturizer that contains ingredients such as cocoa butter, vitamins A and E, beeswax, petrolatum or dimethicone — reapply lip protection before heading out into harsh weather conditions;
2) Try not to lick your lips — it may feel good at first, but the evaporating moisture will actually cause your lips to dry out more;
3) Cover your mouth with a scarf when outdoors in this weather;
4) Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
(Published Feb. 11, 2014)
