Lips are an important part of our body. They not only add to our facial features but play a vital role in communication, expressing emotions, and even eating.

However, when the edges of the lips become rough, it can cause a lot of discomfort, pain, and even embarrassment. In this article, we will explore the reasons why lips get rough on the edges and what can be done to prevent and treat this condition.

What Causes Roughness on the Edges of Lips?

The skin on the edges of our lips is much thinner and more delicate than the skin on other parts of the body. It has fewer sebaceous glands, which means that it is more prone to drying out and becoming rough.

Here are some of the common reasons why the edges of our lips may become rough and dry:.

1. Cold Weather

Cold weather can cause the skin on the edges of our lips to become dry and rough. When we are exposed to cold temperatures, the moisture in our skin evaporates, causing the skin to become dehydrated. This can cause the lips to crack and become chapped.

Additionally, the cold wind can further dry out the skin, making the problem worse.

2. Sun Exposure

The sun’s rays can be very damaging to the delicate skin on our lips. Too much sun exposure can cause the skin to become dry and cracked, leading to rough edges on the lips.

Over time, exposure to the sun can also lead to the development of fine lines and wrinkles around the lips.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration is another common cause of roughness on the edges of the lips. When our bodies are dehydrated, our skin can become dry and flaky, which can cause the lips to become rough.

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep the body hydrated and prevent this problem from occurring.

4. Licking Lips

Many people have a habit of licking their lips when they feel dry or chapped. Unfortunately, this habit can actually make the problem worse.

When we lick our lips, the saliva that we produce contains digestive enzymes that can break down the thin layer of skin on the edges of our lips. This can cause the skin to become red, raw, and rough.

5. Allergic Reactions

Sometimes, the roughness on the edges of our lips can be caused by an allergic reaction. Certain ingredients in lip products, such as fragrances, preservatives, or even the wax used in some lip balms, can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

This can lead to redness, swelling, and roughness on the edges of the lips.

How to Prevent Rough Lips on the Edges

Preventing rough lips on the edges is relatively simple if we take proper care of our lips. Here are some tips that can help prevent this problem from occurring:.

1. Keep Lips Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep the body hydrated and prevent the lips from becoming dry and rough. Additionally, applying a hydrating lip balm or petroleum jelly to the lips can help lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

2. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure

Using a lip balm with SPF can help protect the lips from the damaging UV rays of the sun. Additionally, wearing a hat or staying in the shade during the hottest part of the day can also help prevent sun damage to the lips.

3. Avoid Licking Lips

To prevent roughness on the edges of the lips, it’s important to avoid the habit of licking the lips. If the lips feel dry or chapped, apply a hydrating lip balm instead of licking.

4. Avoid Using Harsh Products

Avoid lip products that contain harsh ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for a lip balm or lipstick that is formulated with natural ingredients, such as shea butter or jojoba oil.

5. Use a Humidifier

Using a humidifier in the home can help keep the air moist, which can prevent dryness and roughness on the edges of the lips.

How to Treat Rough Lips on the Edges

If the edges of the lips become rough and dry, there are several steps that can be taken to help heal the skin and restore moisture. Here are some of the ways to treat rough lips on the edges:.

1. Exfoliate Lips

Removing dead skin cells from the edges of the lips can help promote healthy skin growth and prevent roughness. To exfoliate the lips, use a gentle lip scrub or a soft toothbrush to massage the edges of the lips.

This will help remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin growth.

2. Apply Lip Balm Regularly

Applying a hydrating lip balm regularly throughout the day can help soothe the skin and prevent dryness. Look for a lip balm that contains natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil.

3. Use a Thick Ointment

If the edges of the lips are severely dry and rough, applying a thick ointment, such as petroleum jelly, can help soothe the skin and lock in moisture.

4. Apply Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can soothe dry and rough skin. Applying aloe vera gel to the edges of the lips can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

5. Use a Hydrocortisone Cream

If the roughness on the edges of the lips is caused by an allergic reaction, using a hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.

Conclusion

The edges of the lips are delicate and prone to becoming rough and dry. However, this problem can be easily prevented and treated with proper care and attention.

Keeping lips hydrated, avoiding sun damage, and using natural lip products are all important steps in preventing roughness on the edges of the lips. If the problem does occur, regularly applying a hydrating lip balm, exfoliating the skin, and using natural remedies like aloe vera can help soothe the skin and promote healing.