As we approach winter, the change in temperature affects our bodies, most visibly our skin.
Although chapped lips can occur at any time of the year, they will always remain a conscious or subconscious problem.
While lip balms and petroleum jelly are obvious choices, Healthline provides other natural options for you to consider.
Aloe vera
Best known as a home remedy for sunburns, aloe vera also has anti-inflammatories and soothing effects to help with chapped lips. You can either use it in its gel form or fresh from the leaves of the aloe plant.
Be sure to limit your use of aloe vera to two or three times a day as the plant’s enzymes have mils exfoliating properties.
Avocado butter
A review of studies has shown that avocado butter is best used as an emollient and thickener in lip balms.
The butter is not greasy, is well-absorbed by our skin and contains several fatty acids and beneficial antioxidants for our skin.
Coconut oil
The publication notes that our lips have poor barrier function, unlike most of the skin on our bodies. This means that our lips are more sensitive to the natural elements.
According to studies, applying pure, organic coconut oil protects the skin by enhancing the barrier function. An added benefit is that the oil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Honey
Honey has been used for many years as a home remedy for health conditions and skin care.
It can help moisturise lips, prevent chapped lips from getting infected and helps to exfoliate ad remove dead skin from your lips.
Also see: Why you should wear sunscreen everyday
