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Winter skincare: 7 tips for soothing sensitive lips and skin

Is your lip balm making your lips worse? A dermatologist advises. Image: YouTube Sniffles, sneezes, and constant nose-wiping might feel like the norm during winter, but dry, sore lips and red, irritated skin around the nose don't have to be. According to Cape Town-based dermatologist Dr Lauren Knight, much of this discomfort can be prevented with the right skincare choices. 'The skin around the nose and mouth is thinner and more delicate, which makes it more prone to damage from repeated wiping,' she explains. 'Once the skin barrier is impaired, it can become dry, inflamed and more vulnerable to infection.' A few simple changes in your winter skincare routine can make a big difference. Here are seven common mistakes Dr Knight sees parents make—and how to avoid them: 1. Using rough or scented tissues Friction and fragrance are fast tracks to irritation. Choose ultra-soft, unscented tissues and gently dab rather than rub. Follow up with a protective balm containing lanolin and cocoa butter. 2. Applying adult balms to children's lips Many adult balms contain ingredients that worsen irritation in children. Not all lip balms are safe for little ones. Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas or those tested under paediatric control. 3. Relying on single-action moisturisers Moisturising alone isn't enough. Winter skin needs hydration and protection. Choose a dual-action balm that not only moisturises but also supports barrier repair and shields against further damage. 4. Not applying balm often enough Consistency is key. Reapply balm to the nose and lips several times a day, especially after eating, drinking, or wiping. Keep a tube handy in your bag or car for easy top-ups. 5. Overusing antiseptics or steroid creams Unless prescribed, avoid using antiseptic or cortisone creams, which may further irritate the skin. Instead, use gentle, repairing balms with ingredients like Centella Asiatica, vitamin E, and shea butter. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 6. Barrier creams are not just for adults Children's skin is thinner and more reactive, so barrier support is even more essential. Opt for products specifically formulated for children. Dr Knight recommends specialised pediatric balms such as LETIbalm Paediatric Nose & Lip Repair for soothing and restoring delicate skin. 7. Ignoring allergis or infections Persistent redness and irritation may signal something more than just dryness. 'If your child has seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis, or a secondary infection, a balm alone won't solve it,' says Dr Knight. In these cases, consult your GP or dermatologist for appropriate treatment. By choosing gentle, protective products and staying consistent with application, you can help keep your skin comfortable, healthy and resilient throughout the colder months. IOL Lifestyle