No, it is not good to apply saliva on lips.
Why licking your lips is a bad idea
While it might feel like a quick fix for dry lips, licking them actually causes more harm than good. Here’s why:
- Digestive Enzymes: Saliva contains enzymes like amylase and maltase, designed to break down food. When you lick your lips, these enzymes start to wear down the delicate skin on your lips. This makes them more prone to damage and dryness.
- Temporary Moisture: The moisture from saliva on your lips is only temporary. As the saliva evaporates, it can actually dry out your lips even further. This creates a cycle where you feel the need to lick your lips again, exacerbating the problem.
- Increased Vulnerability: The wearing down effect from saliva leaves your lips more vulnerable to the elements, especially dry air. This can lead to chapping, cracking, and even bleeding.
The Cycle of Licking
The issue is that licking your lips provides immediate relief, but the long term effects are damaging. Here's how the cycle typically unfolds:
- Dryness: Your lips feel dry and uncomfortable.
- Licking: You lick your lips to add moisture, finding temporary relief.
- Evaporation: The saliva evaporates, leaving your lips even drier than before.
- Damage: Repeated licking leads to worn-down and damaged lips.
Better Solutions for Dry Lips
Instead of licking your lips, try these solutions:
- Use Lip Balm: Regularly apply a moisturizing lip balm with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or petroleum jelly.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Humidifier: Use a humidifier, especially during dry months, to keep the air moist.
- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of lip products that might dry out your lips, like matte lipsticks or flavored lip balms with additives.
| Problem | Why it happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Relief from Licking | Saliva adds moisture to the lips | Use lip balm instead |
| Worn Down Lips | Digestive enzymes break down lip skin | Avoid excessive lip licking |
| Increased Dryness | Saliva evaporates, further drying the lips | Stay hydrated and use a humidifier |
| Vulnerability | Damaged skin is prone to dry air | Apply lip balm and avoid irritating lip products |
