Drinking more water is essential for overall health, but there’s no clear evidence it directly prevents chapped lips. Lips are prone to dryness due to their lack of sweat and oil glands. Proven solutions include using lip balm, avoiding licking lips, and managing humidity.
The belief that increasing daily water intake can resolve chapped lips is appealingly logical: if dehydration is the issue, then drinking more water should solve it. However, the reality is more nuanced. Lips are particularly vulnerable to dryness because they differ significantly from the rest of the skin. They lack sweat glands, which produce moisture, and have very few sebaceous glands to generate protective oils. Without a hydrolipidic film to guard against dehydration and with a thinner epidermis, lips are far more prone to water loss than other areas of the body. While staying hydrated is vital for overall health, including skin health, it doesn’t necessarily prevent chapped lips. Drinking the recommended 1.5 litres of water daily supports cellular hydration throughout the body, but water is prioritized for vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys—not specifically for the lips. Therefore, increasing water intake is unlikely to target lip hydration directly.
To date, there is limited scientific evidence linking internal hydration to the prevention of chapped lips. One notable study measured skin hydration in 80 participants who increased their daily water intake by one litre over six weeks. Skin hydration on the forearms improved by an average of 16.3%. However, the study did not include measurements specific to the lips, leaving their benefit in this context unclear.
Until conclusive research is available, addressing chapped lips involves practical and validated methods: Apply a quality lip balm: Use one rich in emollients and protective ingredients to lock in moisture.
Avoid licking your lips: Saliva can exacerbate dryness by breaking down the skin barrier.
Manage environmental factors: Use a humidifier in dry conditions to prevent excessive moisture loss.
Imperata cylindrica, also known as cogon grass, is a perennial grass native to Asia, widely used in the beauty industry for its hydrating properties. Its extract provides long-lasting moisture, improves skin and hair texture, and has anti-aging and soothing benefits. It's commonly found in skincare and haircare products, promoting healthier, more hydrated, and radiant skin and hair.
For numerous years, hyaluronic acid has dominated the realm of anti-wrinkle ingredients. It's advocated for both youthful skin seeking hydration and mature skin aiming to enhance the appearance of the epidermis. However, its widespread use has inevitably led to controversy and misconceptions. Are these assertions accurate? Let's unravel some skincare truths and myths.
Dry skin, typically lacking suppleness and elasticity, often experiences irritation and discomfort. Proper care involves applying nourishing and moisturizing treatments. Is avocado vegetable oil one of the suggested remedies?
Rosacea is a common yet often misunderstood skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. While rosacea is a chronic condition, proper skincare and adjustments can help manage its symptoms and improve the overall quality of your skin. At Skinportant Clinic, we regularly help clients identify and manage rosacea, so let’s dive deeper into what causes it, its triggers, and how to treat it effectively.
