Summertime often brings with it soaring temperatures and increased exposure to the sun, which can leave your lips feeling dry, chapped, and uncomfortable.

However, with a few simple tricks and a little care, you can keep your lips smooth, supple, and kissable all summer long. Here are 10 effective ways to maintain healthy lips during the hot summer season:.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

One of the most essential ways to keep your lips smooth and moisturized is by staying properly hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can lead to dry and cracked lips.

Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go, and make it a habit to sip water frequently, especially when outdoors.

2. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is the key to maintaining soft and supple lips. Use a gentle lip scrub or a homemade mixture of sugar and honey to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother lips.

Gently massage the scrub onto your lips in circular motions and rinse off with lukewarm water. Performing this step once or twice a week will keep your lips looking healthy and fresh.

3. Protect Your Lips from the Sun

Just like the rest of your body, your lips need protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for lip balms or lipsticks that contain SPF to shield your lips from sun damage.

Apply a generous coat of SPF lip balm before heading outdoors and reapply every few hours, especially after swimming or prolonged sun exposure.

4. Choose a Suitable Lip Balm

Opt for a nourishing lip balm that contains ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax. These natural emollients help lock in moisture, prevent dryness, and provide a protective barrier against environmental factors.

Avoid lip balms with artificial fragrances and ingredients that may cause further irritation.

5. Avoid Licking Your Lips

When your lips feel dry, it can be tempting to lick them to add instant moisture. However, licking your lips can actually worsen the situation, as saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier than before.

Instead, reach for your trusty lip balm whenever you feel the need for moisture.

6. Stay Away from Harsh Lip Products

Some lip products, especially long-lasting lipsticks or matte formulas, can be drying for your lips. During the summer, opt for hydrating lipsticks, tinted lip balms, or lip glosses that offer both color and moisturization.

Make sure to read the labels and avoid lip products that contain alcohol or other drying ingredients.

7. Use a Humidifier

Indoor environments can become dry during the summer due to air conditioning or fans. Consider using a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air.

This helps prevent your lips from drying out and maintains a comfortable level of humidity to keep them soft and supple.

8. Stay Mindful of Your Diet

Your diet plays a significant role in the overall health of your lips. Include foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to nourish your lips from the inside out.

Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and chia seeds, can also help maintain lip health.

9. Avoid Irritants

During the summer, your lips may come into contact with various irritants like chlorine from swimming pools, salty seawater, or even certain foods.

Rinse your lips with clean water after swimming and be mindful of any foods that may cause discomfort or dryness. If you have any known allergens, make sure to avoid contact with them.

10. Sleep with a Lip Treatment

For some extra pampering, use a nourishing lip treatment before you go to bed. Look for products that contain ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, or aloe vera to replenish moisture overnight.

Applying a generous layer and allowing it to work its magic while you sleep will leave you with soft, supple lips by morning.