With the winter season setting in, most people enjoy the pleasant chill in the air. However, winter also brings along common skin problems—especially dry and chapped lips. Cracked lips not only cause discomfort but can also make people feel self-conscious when stepping outdoors. Many rely on lip balms, but simple natural remedies can be equally effective and safer for regular use.
Experts say that several natural ingredients available around us can help keep lips soft, moisturized, and healthy during cold weather.
One such remedy is rose petals. Clean the petals thoroughly, soak them in milk for some time, and then grind them into a smooth paste. Applying this paste to the lips for 15 minutes and rinsing it off helps reduce dryness and gives the lips a natural pink tone.
Aloe vera gel is another effective treatment. Gently massaging the lips with fresh aloe gel helps prevent dryness and restores softness.
Honey, rich in essential nutrients, is known for its moisturizing properties. Applying honey to the lips daily keeps them soft and supple. Another traditional practice suggests warming mustard oil and applying it to the navel before sleeping, which is believed to help reduce lip dryness.
Using castor plant sap also helps keep lips soft and hydrated, while coconut oil remains one of the most effective natural moisturizers. Compared to chemical-based lip balms and lotions, coconut oil helps keep both lips and skin nourished for longer. Applying it at night can also help reduce lip pigmentation.
Ghee (clarified butter), known for its health benefits, acts as a natural moisturizer. Regular use can help keep lips soft, hydrated, and naturally rosy.
Besides these remedies, a simple homemade lip balm can be prepared using natural ingredients. Mix half a teaspoon of fresh cream, a pinch of cinnamon powder, and a little turmeric to form a paste. Applying this mixture before bedtime helps lock in moisture and prevents lips from drying out.
Dermatologists advise that natural remedies are generally safe and beneficial for maintaining healthy lips, especially during winter, when dehydration and cold winds are common triggers for cracked lips.
