Fight Chapped Lips On Young Smiles
As an adult, you know the discomfort of chapped lips, and the rough, scaly and even cracked skin that can follow. The tender skin of childrens’ lips is especially vulnerable to cold and dry weather in winter. Children’s chapped lips can include not only the lip skin itself, but also the skin that borders the lips, leading to a ring of uncomfortable redness with every smile. For healthy lips and comfortable childrens’ smile care in the Dallas, Texas area, try these tips to protect lips (of any age!) from winter chapping.
Chapping Hazard: Dehydration
Dehydration is a major cause of chapped lips, and cold winter weather makes it easier to skip offers of drinking water. To guard against systemic dehydration, make sure your children sip frequently on water, especially when they are indoors. To combat external dehydration, check that rooms are not overly warm and consider using a humidifier to combat the dryness of indoor heating.
Chapping Hazard: Licking Dry Lips
When your child is old enough to use a lip balm, you can help them add a protective layer on delicate lips. Use an unflavored lip balm (to limit lip-licking), with a sunblock for added protection. Talk with our knowledgable dental staff if you need advice on specific brands or types of lip balm for your child.
Chapping Hazard: Cold Wind and Weather
Lips don’t have natural oil glands, and cold, windy weather can quickly dry the skin. Tuck a light blanket gently over the lower face of babies, to protect against winter weather. Encourage older children to turn up jacket collars, zip up coats, or add a colorful scarf or muffler to cover their mouths when playing outside.
Children Need Your Help For Lip Protection
Winter weather doesn’t have to mean painful lips due to dryness and chapping. For more information, by calling Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX today at 214-321-4880. We proudly serve patients living in Casa Linda and all surrounding Dallas communities, including Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.
filed under: Tips/Advice