Why lips get wrecked in winter (and while traveling)
Lips don’t have the same oil glands as the rest of your face, so cold air + indoor heating + wind + cabin dryness can hit them fast.
The best simple lip routine (AM + PM)
Morning
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Apply lip balm
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If you’ll be outdoors, use a lip product with SPF when possible
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Reapply after coffee/food
Night (the repair step)
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Apply a generous layer of a thick, ointment-like lip product to lock in hydration American Academy of Dermatology
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If your lips are sensitive, go fragrance-free and keep it boring (boring heals).
Important: If a lip product stings or burns, that’s a sign of irritation—stop and swap. American Academy of Dermatology
Where SADE fits:
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Silk Lip Melt for daily comfort + reapplication
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Lip Balm Scrub only when needed (see below), then always follow with a balm/occlusive layer
Should you exfoliate chapped lips?
Only if you have flaky buildup, and only gently. The goal is not “smooth at all costs”—it’s comfortable + healed.
Rule: Exfoliate max 1–2x/week (or less) and never on actively cracked, bleeding, or burning lips.
Winter hands: how to stop the cracking cycle
The hand routine that works
1) Wash with lukewarm water (hot water strips more). Svema Group
2) Moisturize immediately (don’t wait).
3) Hand sanitizer tip: If you’re not visibly dirty, consider a sanitizer option that’s less drying (some derms highlight formulas with hydrating ingredients like glycerin). Cornerstone Dermatology & Surgery Group
4) Gloves are skincare when it’s cold/windy.
Travel mini checklist (carry-on friendly)
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Lip balm + thicker “night” layer
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Hand cream
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SPF (face)
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Gentle cleanser + moisturizer (keep it minimal)
FAQ
What’s the fastest way to heal chapped lips?
Use a non-irritating lip balm often, and at night use a thicker ointment-style layer to seal in moisture. American Academy of Dermatology
Why do my lips get worse when I use lip balm?
Some formulas irritate certain people. If it stings/burns, stop and switch. American Academy of Dermatology
How do I fix winter hands quickly?
Lukewarm washing + moisturize immediately, and reduce overwashing where possible.
