5 Things You Are Doing That Are Making Your Chapped Lips Worse

Licking your lips is second nature, especially when you just want to add some moisture. Unfortunately, this habit backfires.

"The first thing most people do when they feel their lips are dry is begin licking them, which is the worst thing you can do," warns Dr. Alexis Stephens, board certified dermatologist at Parkland Dermatology and spokesperson for The Inkey List. "It releases the enzyme amylase, which breaks down carbohydrates on your lips, which further irritates the skin. When that water from the saliva evaporates, it takes away even more water from your skin."

Reach for an occlusive lip moisturizer instead. It's not super glamorous, but Blistex Medicated Lip Balm SPF 15, $2.89, can provide instant relief and healing. Shamban adds that applying before showering and again before bed can help create a buffer against TEWL.

Image via Imaxtree