Why Lips Get Cracked in Winter (and Why It's Not What Most People Think)

Why Lips Get Cracked in Winter (and Why It's Not What Most People Think)

Most people assume that cracked lips result purely from a lack of moisture in the winter air. While dry air is a factor, the underlying cause is actually TEWL or (trans-epidermal water loss ) and damage to the natural barrier of the lips.

The key causes of Winter Lip Cracking:

  1. Thin Skin Barrier: Lips lack the stratum corneum (the tough outermost layer of skin) and oil glands, making them especially vulnerable to moisture loss.
  2. Licking Lips: Saliva evaporates quickly, taking even more moisture from your lips. Enzymes in saliva can also irritate the sensitive skin.
  3. Temperature Fluctuations: Moving between cold outdoor air and heated indoor spaces causes the delicate skin on the lips to dehydrate and crack.
  4. Barrier Disruption: Exposure to harsh winds and cold air can strip the lips of their natural lipids, leaving them defenseless against environmental stressors.

So Whats The Solution?

A lip balm made with beef tallow, Manuka honey, and essential oils offers a superior, natural solution because it addresses the root causes of cracking and not just the symptoms.

Why This Combination Works:

  1. Beef Tallow:

    • Moisture Lock-In: The fatty acids in tallow (similar to the skin's natural oils) create a breathable barrier, sealing in hydration without blocking pores.
    • Nourishment: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, tallow promotes healing and strengthens the lip's natural barrier.
    • Protection: Shields lips from windburn and harsh conditions.
  2. Manuka Honey:

    • Healing Properties: A powerful humectant and antimicrobial, it draws in moisture and speeds up healing of cracks and irritation.
    • Soothing: Reduces inflammation and provides a soft, supple texture to the lips.
  3. Essential Oils:

    • Therapeutic Benefits: Oils like lavender, peppermint, or tea tree can provide cooling relief, enhance healing, and add natural flavor or aroma.
    • Antimicrobial Action: Protects lips from infections that can occur through open cracks.

How to Use Beef Tallow Lip Balm:

  1. Prep Your Lips: Gently exfoliate using a sugar scrub or a soft cloth to remove dead skin cells.
  2. Apply Generously: Use clean fingers or a lip balm stick to coat your lips, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Reapply as Needed: Especially after eating, drinking, or exposure to harsh conditions.
  4. Nighttime Care: Apply a thicker layer before bed to let the balm work as an overnight treatment.

This combination is not just a superficial fix—it actively restores and fortifies your lips, preventing future cracking while promoting long-term health!

Interested? Grab yours here now!


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