DUBAI: During Ramadan, one of our chief beauty gripes is dry, chapped lips as a result of fasting. Lips are particularly vulnerable because unlike other areas of the skin, they don’t have oil and sweat glands to keep them moist. Additionally, the skin on our lips is 15 times thinner than the skin on our body, so it requires extra care and protection, especially during the holy month when hydration levels are at their lowest. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to help you combat flaky, dehydrated skin and kiss dry lips goodbye for good. Drink plenty of water The best way to combat a chapped, dry pout is by increasing your water intake during iftar and sahoor. In general, drinking two litres of water per day will keep you hydrated while ensuring your pout stays smooth. Incorporate soups, laban and herbal teas into your meals, which all contribute to total fluid intake. Try a lip scrub Exfoliating your lips makes them softer and hydrated, without stripping them of their natural moisture. You can make your own lip scrub at home using kitchen ingredients like honey and sugar. You can concoct the scrub by combining equal parts honey, coconut oil and raw sugar and gently apply the mixture to your pout. There are also an array of exfoliating formulas on the market you can try, including the Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss"r Lip-Loving Scrubstick, Fresh Sugar Lip Polish and GlamGlow Poutmud Fizzy Lip Exfoliating Treatment. Hydrate Once the skin on the lips is exfoliated, look for hydrating lip balms packed with ceramides and natural oils. May we suggest the NARS Afterglow Lip Balm? The formula provides a healthy rosy sheen in addition to nourishing the lips. Meanwhile, La Mer’s Lip Balm helps bolster the skin"s barrier, instantly softening dryness. Reach for a lip mask Similar to a sheet or eye mask, lip masks are easy to use and are packed with moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter and vitamin E. To use, lay the lips-shaped sheet out on your mouth for 10 minutes. Then, peel the patch off and allow the residual serum to absorb into your skin for a smoother pout. Use a humidifier Dry air can strip moisture from the skin. Consider incorporating a humidifier into your space during the holy month to add some much-needed moisture into the air. Stop licking your lips We tend to lick our lips to relieve them of dryness, but it actually dries them out even more. Not only does saliva contain acids that may irritate lips, but continuously licking lips will remove any natural oils you have on the skin. Instead, reach for a soothing balm to nourish and calm dry lips.