The autumn/winter period is undisputedly lovely, categorised by warm fireplaces, mugs of hot chocolate, homey movie nights, and scenic walks bundled up in a hundred layers.
But as enjoyable as the colder months are, chilly season also has its drawbacks – namely, its troubling effect on the skin.
As temperatures continue to drop, we are all at risk of developing "dry, flaky, itchy, and sensitive skin", specialist Dr Majad Hussain warns.
At the same time, your lips may take on a "tight, flaking, or peeling" appearance. You may even notice a strange white layer inside your mouth, says Fresha beauty expert Danielle Louise.
"Your lips don't have oil glands, which means they can't hydrate themselves. That's why so many people get sore, cracked, or flaky lips during winter — and why that white film or 'layer of skin' appears inside the mouth," she explained.
According to the expert, these winter lip issues are further exacerbated by our own bad habits.
"It's often dead skin caused by dehydration, saliva irritation, or overuse of thick balms that sit on top instead of hydrating underneath."
Thankfully, with the right tips and tricks, it's possible to enjoy enviable lips year-round. Here, Ms Louise shared her top dos and don'ts.
Hydrate from the inside out by sipping water throughout the day
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How to maintain a perfect pout this autumn/winter
Do:
Hydrate from the inside out
Sip water throughout the day and use a hydrating serum or oil before your balm.
Layer products properly
Serum first to nourish, then a balm to lock it in.
Use SPF
UV rays can still cause dryness and pigmentation even in winter.
Sleep with a treatment mask
Overnight formulas with ceramides or squalane help repair the barrier while you rest.
LATEST BEAUTY TIPS AND TRICKS:
Avoid using matte or long-wear lipsticks that can dry out your pout
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Don't:
Lick your lips
It momentarily feels soothing, but actually dries them out faster.
Overuse lip balm
Constant re-application prevents your lips from naturally retaining moisture.
Use matte or long-wear lipsticks
These formulas can be too drying – especially without a serum base.
Exfoliate too often
Gentle, once-a-week exfoliation is enough, but too much can worsen peeling.
Use menthol or camphor balms
They can irritate already chapped lips and make dryness worse.
Offering a top tip for lip balm success, Ms Louise advised: "If your lips sting when you apply balm, that's your sign to stop and switch to something gentler.
"Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and jojoba oil will do far more to heal and protect."
To sum things up, "lip care should be part of your daily skin care routine," the beauty guru concluded.
"Treat your lips like you would the skin on your face: hydrate, protect, and avoid anything harsh. Within a few days, you'll notice the difference.”
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