No, you should not apply saliva to your lips. While it might seem like a quick fix for dry lips, saliva actually exacerbates the problem.
Why Saliva is Bad for Lips
Saliva, while essential for oral health, contains enzymes that are too harsh for the delicate skin of your lips. These enzymes, instead of moisturizing, can cause dryness, discomfort, and even irritation. Furthermore, saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips drier than before. [^1, ^2, ^3]
- Enzyme Damage: The enzymes in saliva can irritate the already delicate lip skin.
- Rapid Evaporation: Saliva dries quickly, worsening the dryness and chapping.
Better Alternatives for Dry Lips
Instead of using saliva, consider these alternatives for managing dry, chapped lips:
- Lip Balm: Use a lip balm containing moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or petroleum jelly.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out.
- Humidifier: Use a humidifier, especially during dry winter months, to add moisture to the air.
It's crucial to break the habit of licking your lips, as it creates a vicious cycle of dryness and irritation. Using the proper moisturizing products will provide lasting relief and prevent further damage. [^1, ^2, ^3, ^8]
[^1]: NIVEA, Great Ways To Get Healthy Lips | NIVEA®, https://www.niveausa.com/advice/skin/how-to-get-healthy-lips-110
[^2]: Typology, Is using saliva to moisturize your lips a good idea?, https://us.typology.com/library/misconception-if-you-have-dry-lips-moisten-them-with-your-saliva
[^3]: Think Twice, Does licking your lips make them drier?, https://sites.utexas.edu/think-twice/2019/06/25/does-licking-your-lips-make-them-drier/
[^8]: Healthline, Licking Lips: Due to Environment, Anxiety, and How to Stop, https://www.healthline.com/health/licking-lips
