1. Exfoliate Your Lips Regularly
Lip skin cells are the outer layer of the lips that constantly shed through flaking to make way for new cells. If these dead cells are not removed, you may experience issues such as dry, dark, or flaky lips, and your lipstick may not apply as smoothly. It is recommended to exfoliate your lips 1-2 times a week to help lip balms and other products absorb better, thus preventing dry lips when wearing lipstick or during dry weather.

Lip skin cells are the outer layer of the lips that constantly shed.
In addition to using specialized lip exfoliators, you can create your own exfoliating mixture at home. For example, mix one teaspoon of fine sugar with one teaspoon of honey. Apply the mixture to your lips, gently massage for 1-2 minutes, then rinse with warm water. This will help exfoliate and moisturize your lips.
2. Apply a Lip Mask Before Bed
Using a lip mask is a simple and effective way to care for and restore your lips. If you don’t want to invest in a specialized lip mask, you can create your own natural lip mask at home. One effective recipe is a mixture of honey and coconut oil.
Honey is a natural moisturizer that helps soften the lips and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial if your lips are chapped or damaged. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E. It helps lock in moisture, soothes dry lips, and creates a protective barrier against environmental factors. Mix a small amount of honey and coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio, apply it to your lips before bed, leave it on overnight, and rinse it off in the morning with warm water.
Alternatively, you can create a lip mask using olive oil and vitamin E, which is ideal for nourishing and restoring dry, chapped lips. Olive oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, enhancing lip elasticity and softness. Vitamin E aids in cell regeneration, plumping the lips and reducing flaking and irritation. Simply mix 1-2 drops of olive oil with a vitamin E capsule, apply the mixture to your lips, and gently massage it in. Leave it on overnight and wipe it off in the morning.
3. Choose the Right Lip Balm
Lip balm is essential if you want to maintain soft, moisturized lips and prevent dryness. When choosing a lip balm, consider the condition of your lips. If your lips are slightly dry, opt for a lip balm containing beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil to protect and moisturize them. If your lips are severely dry and flaky, use a petroleum-based ointment for intensive restoration. For a light, daytime option, choose a gel-based lip balm that won’t feel too heavy.

Lip balm is an essential product for soft, moisturized lips.
If you frequently use matte lipstick, apply a layer of lip balm about 5-10 minutes before applying your lipstick. When it’s time to apply your lipstick, gently blot your lips with a tissue or makeup remover wipe to remove excess balm and ensure better color payoff.
4. Apply Lipstick the Right Way to Prevent Dry Lips
The Secret to Smooth, Flaky-Free Lips: 3 Easy Steps for a Better Pout Than Any Lip Balm
Did you know that the lips only have a third of the thickness of the stratum corneum compared to the cheeks, and they don’t have any sweat glands? This makes the lips the driest area on the face. Discover the top 3 tips from dermatologist Tsai Yilun to achieve plump and hydrated lips during the dry autumn and winter seasons.