Lips are one of the most delicate features of the face, and they’re often the first to show signs of dehydration, environmental damage, or neglect. Achieving healthy-looking lips isn’t just about aesthetics it’s also about maintaining proper lip care to prevent dryness, cracking, and premature aging. With the right habits and products, it’s entirely possible to restore softness, hydration, and natural color.
In this guide, we’ll explore 12 effective, dermatologist-informed strategies to help you maintain smooth, supple lips year-round. From daily hydration to smart exfoliation and protection against the elements, these expert tips are simple to incorporate into your routine and can make a noticeable difference. Healthy lips aren’t just beautiful they’re a reflection of overall skin health and care.
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Exfoliate Your Lips
To maintain smooth, healthy-looking lips, regular exfoliation is key. Each night, start by applying a high-quality lip balm to lock in moisture while you sleep. In the morning, gently slough off any dead or dry skin using a damp washcloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush.
This not only removes flaky buildup but also stimulates blood circulation, giving your lips a naturally plumper, rosier appearance. Be sure to follow up with a nourishing lip balm to protect the newly exposed skin and maintain hydration throughout the day. Avoid over-exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week is typically enough to keep your lips soft and healthy without causing irritation.
Try a Homemade Lip Scrub
For a gentle, effective way to exfoliate your lips, consider making your own lip scrub using natural ingredients. Combine one teaspoon of raw sugar with half a teaspoon each of almond oil and honey. The raw sugar acts as a mild exfoliant, sloughing away dead skin without being too abrasive, while the almond oil and honey provide deep hydration and nourishment.
Gently massage the mixture onto your lips in circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse with warm water. Follow up with a hydrating lip balm to seal in moisture. This DIY scrub is not only easy to make but also free from harsh chemicals, making it ideal for the delicate skin on your lips. Use 1–2 times a week.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin—and that includes your lips. One of the most common causes of dryness and flakiness is simply not drinking enough water. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to support your body’s natural moisture balance. When you’re well-hydrated, your lips appear fuller, smoother, and more supple.
Unlike the rest of your skin, lips lack oil glands, making them especially vulnerable to dehydration. By keeping your water intake consistent, you not only improve your overall health but also help prevent chapped or cracked lips. Pair your water habit with a moisturizing lip balm to lock in hydration and keep your lips looking soft and healthy throughout the day.
Use Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that offers multiple benefits for lip health. If you have vitamin E capsules on hand, simply puncture one and apply the oil directly to your lips. This nutrient-rich oil helps to boost blood circulation, promote cell regeneration, and deeply moisturize dry or damaged skin. Over time, consistent use can lead to softer, smoother, and visibly healthier lips.
Its healing properties are especially beneficial for soothing cracked or irritated lips, making it an excellent addition to your nighttime skincare routine. For best results, apply before bed and let the oil absorb overnight. You can also look for lip balms that include vitamin E as a key ingredient for daily protection and nourishment.
Moisturize with Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural powerhouse when it comes to healing and hydration, making it an excellent remedy for dry or irritated lips. You can use pure aloe vera gel from a trusted source, or simply cut a leaf from an aloe plant and apply the fresh gel directly to your lips. Rich in vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, aloe vera soothes inflammation, supports skin regeneration, and locks in moisture without leaving a greasy residue.
It’s especially effective for calming sunburned or wind-chapped lips. Apply a thin layer once or twice a day, allowing it to fully absorb. For best results, follow with a moisturizing lip balm to seal in the hydration and protect your lips throughout the day.
Use a Berry-Based Lip Scrub
Berries, especially strawberries, are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C nutrients that are excellent for revitalizing and nourishing the delicate skin on your lips. To create a simple berry-based lip scrub, mash one ripe strawberry and mix it with a teaspoon of sugar and a few drops of coconut or olive oil.
Gently massage the mixture onto your lips in small, circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse with warm water. This natural scrub not only helps remove dead skin cells but also delivers a boost of hydration and a subtle tint from the berries. Use once or twice a week to keep your lips soft, smooth, and healthy-looking with a natural glow.
Protect Your Lips from the Sun
While most people remember to apply sunscreen to their face and body, the lips are often overlooked—despite being just as vulnerable to sun damage. In fact, a 2005 study found that only 37% of sunscreen users also protected their lips. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to dryness, discoloration, premature aging, and even an increased risk of skin cancer.
To keep your lips safe, use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher every day, regardless of the weather. UV damage can occur even on cloudy days or through sunless tanning beds. For maximum protection, reapply your SPF lip balm every hour, especially after eating, drinking, or spending extended time outdoors.
Use Natural Plant Dyes
For a subtle, healthy-looking tint without the drying effects of traditional lipsticks, natural plant dyes are a gentle and effective alternative. If you’re aiming for a reddish tone that enhances your natural lip color, ingredients like raspberry or pomegranate juice can provide a beautiful, temporary stain. Simply dab a small amount of the juice directly onto clean lips using a cotton swab or your fingertip, and let it absorb for a few minutes.
These natural pigments offer a soft flush of color while delivering antioxidants and hydration, making them ideal for sensitive or dry lips. Best of all, they’re free from synthetic chemicals, so you get a pop of color without sacrificing lip health.
Limit Exposure to Toxins
Environmental toxins such as polluted air, cigarette smoke, and harsh chemicals can significantly impact the appearance and health of your lips. These factors can accelerate the aging process, leading to darkening, dryness, and the development of fine lines or wrinkles. Smoking, in particular, restricts blood flow and contributes to a faded, uneven lip tone over time. To maintain healthy-looking lips, it’s important to avoid direct exposure to these irritants whenever possible.
Quitting smoking and steering clear of secondhand smoke can lead to noticeable improvements in both lip color and texture. On especially polluted or windy days, wearing a scarf loosely over your mouth adds a layer of protection and helps prevent further damage.
Remove Makeup Before Bed
Going to sleep with makeup on can clog pores, dry out your skin, and cause irritation—and your lips are no exception. Even if your lipstick has faded by the end of the day, residual pigments and product buildup can linger, leading to dryness or flakiness overnight. Before heading to bed, use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water to wipe your lips clean.
This simple step allows your lips to breathe and absorb any overnight treatments, such as hydrating balms or oils, more effectively. Consistently removing lip products ensures your lips stay healthy, soft, and free from long-term staining or damage.
Try Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a refreshing and invigorating addition to your lip care routine. It naturally stimulates blood flow, which can give lips a fuller, rosier appearance while providing a soothing cooling effect. To safely use peppermint oil, dilute a drop or two with a nourishing carrier oil like almond, coconut, or jojoba oil.
This combination makes a simple yet luxurious DIY lip balm you can reapply throughout the day. Not only does it moisturize and refresh, but it also helps relieve dryness and discomfort. Just be sure to patch-test first, especially if you have sensitive skin, as essential oils can occasionally cause irritation.
Always Prep Before Using Lipstick
Even the most hydrating lipsticks can contribute to dryness if your lips aren’t properly prepped. Before applying any lip color—whether it’s a matte stain or a glossy tint it’s important to create a moisturizing base. Using a cotton swab or lip brush, apply a light layer of coconut oil, almond oil, or a dedicated lip primer.
Allow the product to fully absorb before adding lipstick to help lock in moisture, prevent flaking, and ensure smoother, longer-lasting color. This simple step not only enhances the finish of your lip color but also protects the delicate skin underneath.
What You Can Do Today
Explore hydration tracker apps to stay on top of your water intake—better hydration supports healthier lips and skin.
Read these expert guides to elevate your lip care routine:
- Lip Care Routine 101: Get Your Perfect Pucker with These Expert Tips
- 11 Ways to Plump Your Lips, from DIY Drugstore to Dermatologist
- How to Exfoliate Your Lips: DIY Ingredients, Benefits & What to Avoid
Try easy DIY lip scrub recipes to gently exfoliate and keep your lips smooth and nourished.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I exfoliate my lips?
Exfoliate 1–3 times per week, depending on your skin type. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation, so be gentle and follow with a hydrating balm.
Can I use the same exfoliator on my lips that I use on my face?
Not always. Facial exfoliators can be too harsh for the delicate skin on your lips. Use a lip-specific scrub or a gentle DIY option with sugar and oil.
What ingredients should I avoid in lip products?
Avoid drying ingredients like alcohol, menthol, camphor, and artificial fragrances or flavors, especially if you have sensitive lips.
How can I protect my lips in extreme weather?
In cold or windy weather, use a thick, occlusive lip balm with ingredients like shea butter or beeswax. In the sun, choose a balm with SPF 15 or higher.
Do I need SPF on my lips even in winter?
Yes. UV rays can still damage your lips in winter or cloudy conditions. Use a lip balm with broad-spectrum SPF daily.
What’s the best way to treat chapped lips quickly?
Apply a healing lip balm with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or lanolin, avoid licking your lips, and stay well-hydrated.
Conclusion
Caring for your lips goes beyond just applying the occasional balm—it’s about building consistent habits that protect, hydrate, and nourish this delicate area. From exfoliation and hydration to sun protection and smart product choices, small daily steps can make a noticeable difference in the appearance and health of your lips. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, dullness, or just looking to enhance your natural glow, the tips in this guide offer practical, effective ways to achieve smooth, healthy-looking lips.