Chapped, Dry Lips? A Derm Shares How To Fix Cracked Lips ‘As Fast As Possible’ This Winter: ‘Lock In Moisture’

Chapped, dry lips can be uncomfortable, painful, and even make applying lipstick a challenge. Factors like cold weather, dehydration, and harsh lip products can strip away moisture, leaving lips cracked and irritated.

Fortunately, there are effective treatments to heal cracked lips and “lock in moisture,” from nourishing balms to deeply moisturizing ingredients.

Dr. Scott Walter, a dermatologist with over 1.3M followers on TikTok, shared his trick to fix really “dry, chapped lips as fast as possible.” Read on for all his expert insights!

Dr. Walter recommends starting by hydrating your lips with water. He prefers an elevated approach by using La Roche-Posay’s thermal spring water, but any clean water will work to prep the lips for moisture absorption.

Next, after dampening his lips, he applies hyaluronic acid serum, specifically Trader Joe’s hyaluronic acid serum because of its simple, effective formula—but any brand will do. He explains that hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge, absorbing and retaining the moisture just applied to the lips. He makes sure to use a generous amount for maximum hydration.

To seal in all the hydration, he finishes with a layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) for a smooth, glossy finish. He also suggests using this method before bed to wake up with soft, moisturized lips.