Chapped and rough lips affect men as well as women. Your lips are constantly exposed to environmental irritants and other sources of abuse. Failure to protect your lips against sun and wind damage, or licking and biting them, can lead to dry, rough lips. This condition is unattractive, uncomfortable and prone to cracking and infection. You can obtain soft, smooth lips with just a few simple changes to your daily routine.
Drink more water. Drinking sufficient fluids -- about 64 ounces each day -- will keep your body and your lips hydrated. Use a humidifier inside your home at night, especially if your lips are chapped or rough from dry air.
Exfoliate your lips with a soft-bristled toothbrush after brushing your teeth at night to remove dead skin and make your lips softer. Gently massage your lips with the toothbrush using small, circular motions. Exfoliate your lips for no longer than 60 seconds to avoid irritation. If you notice any redness or pain, reduce the frequency of exfoliation.
Use lip balm with built-in sun protection every time you go outside. Your lips are vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun's UV rays just like the rest of your skin. Choose a lip balm with as few ingredients as possible.
Apply moisturizing ointment to your lips before bed. Lip products are available in most retail and drug stores, or you can use olive oil, baby oil or petroleum jelly. You may need to apply moisturizing ointment more frequently during dry winter months.
Tip
Lip balms and lip care products often are available without color, making them suitable for use by men.
Warning
Avoid using flavored lip balms, as these make it more likely you will lick you lips.
Visit your doctor if your lips remain dry, rough or peeling even after making changes in your daily lip care routine. In certain cases, chapped or rough lips may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires professional evaluation and care.
References
Writer Bio
Sandra Ketcham has nearly two decades of experience writing and editing for major websites and magazines. Her work appears in numerous web and print publications, including "The Atlanta Journal-Constitution," "The Tampa Bay Times," Visit Florida, "USA Today," AOL's Gadling and "Kraze Magazine."