8 Lip Care Mistakes That Are Making Your Chapping Worse

Derms say you need to resist licking and picking

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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As the weather gets cooler and drier, the thin skin of the lips tends to dry out faster than the rest of our skin. There are several common mistakes that can exacerbate chapped lips, including using certain skincare products, matte lipsticks, lip plumpers, and flavored lip products. Dermatologists recommend using petroleum jelly, emollients, and hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to protect and nourish the lips. They also advise against licking or picking at dry, cracked lips, which can lead to further irritation and inflammation.

Why it matters

Chapped, cracked lips can be painful and unsightly, and improper lip care can make the problem even worse. Understanding the common causes and following dermatologists' advice can help people maintain healthy, comfortable lips, especially during the drier winter months.

The details

According to the dermatologists interviewed, some of the everyday beauty products that can contribute to chapped lips include matte lipsticks (especially long-wear formulas), lip plumpers that work by irritating the skin, and flavored or fragrant lip products. Certain toothpastes and skincare items with harsh ingredients like retinoids and exfoliating acids can also migrate to the lips and cause dryness and irritation. The experts recommend using protective, hydrating ingredients like petroleum jelly, emollients, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to seal in moisture and support the skin barrier. They caution against licking or picking at dry, cracked lips, which can lead to a painful condition called Lip Licker's Dermatitis.

  • As the weather gets cooler and drier, the thin skin of the lips tends to dry out faster than the rest of our skin.

The players

Erum Ilyas, M.D.

A dermatologist who explains that the thin skin of the lips dries out faster than the rest of the skin as the weather gets cooler and drier.

Mona Gohara, M.D.

An associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University who notes that the lips are the thinnest skin on the body and don't have the same protective layer as other areas.

Kseniya Kobets, M.D.

The director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced who discusses how certain skincare products and makeup can irritate and dry out the lips.

Morayo Adisa, M.D.

The medical director of Dermatology Physicians Chicago and Kenilworth who provides advice on using matte lipsticks and avoiding irritating lip products.

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What they’re saying

“If you have dry lips, do anything but lick and pick them.”

— Mona Gohara, M.D., Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology, Yale University (Good Housekeeping)

“A tingly sensation is usually irritation, not true plumping. Healthy lips should feel comfortable and calm, not stimulated.”

— Kseniya Kobets, M.D., Director of Cosmetic Dermatology, Montefiore Einstein Advanced (Good Housekeeping)

What’s next

If cracked lips or painful corners of the mouth persist longer than a week or two, worsen with burning or blistering, or don't improve with gentle barrier care, it's time to see a board-certified dermatologist.

The takeaway

Maintaining healthy, comfortable lips requires avoiding common mistakes like using drying skincare products, matte lipsticks, and irritating lip products. Following dermatologists' advice to use protective, hydrating ingredients and resist the urge to lick or pick at dry lips can help prevent and treat chapping.