Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly or lanolin often, especially after eating and before bed
Use a fragrance-free, flavor-free lip balm with ceramides, glycerin, or shea butter
Stop licking or biting your lips
Drink enough water throughout the day
Avoid matte lipsticks, menthol, camphor, peppermint, and citrus-flavored lip products
Use a humidifier indoors, especially while sleeping
Gently exfoliate once if needed with a soft damp washcloth, then apply balm immediately
Protect lips from sun and wind with SPF lip balm
Breathe through your nose when possible
Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods until lips heal
Reapply lip balm every 1 to 2 hours
Use a thicker ointment overnight
See a doctor if cracking is severe, bleeding, infected, or not improving within 1 to 2 weeks