Fact or Fiction? 4 Common Chapped Lips Myths Debunked

MYTH #1: LICKING YOUR CHAPPED LIPS WILL HEAL THEM

If you have a habit of licking your lips when they feel dry, realize that you could be making the situation much worse. Though your lips might feel slightly better for a few seconds, the acidic saliva will evaporate and can dehydrate the thin skin on lips. Instead of your tongue, use a salve or balm with a rich, moisturizing formula with oils and butters. Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells Nourishing Lip Balm is a luxe choice. 

MYTH #2: YOUR LIPS CAN BECOME ADDICTED TO BALMS AND MOISTURIZERS 

Lips are incredibly susceptible to dehydration because—unlike other parts of your face—they have no oil glands. In the colder months especially, wind and dry air can do a number on a delicate pout, making you reach for that moisture-sealing lip balm or emollient every few hours for some relief. But will your frequent lip balm applications lead to an addiction to the stuff? The answer is a big, fat…maybe. Some lip emollients simply make lips feel moisturized temporarily, which can cause you to feel like you need to frequently reapply. Learn more about what to look for a in a good lip balm here! 

MYTH #3: YOU SHOULD EXFOLIATE YOUR CHAPPED LIPS WITH A TOOTHBRUSH 

Stop, stop, STOP. Your toothbrush is not an exfoliator. Got it? (Side note: Who comes up with this stuff?) Taking a toothbrush to your chapped lips can be harsh and potentially tear and tug at sensitive skin, making it more susceptible. We’re not saying you should forgo lip exfoliation altogether, though. In fact, we recommend removing dead skin cells from the surface of lips with The Body Shop’s Lip Scuff once or twice a week for smooth and soft lips. Follow up with your favorite balm or salve immediately after.

MYTH #4: CHAPPED LIPS ARE CONTAGIOUS 

This is completely false! Chapped lips are caused by exposure to harsh environmental conditions—think: cold wind, low humidity—and dehydration. They cannot spread with person-to-person contact. In order to keep chapped lips at bay, make sure to stay hydrated, condition lips, avoid allergens, wear SPF, exfoliate regularly, and please, please, please quit licking them!