Chapped lips are a result of very dry skin on the lips. Dry skin occurs when the moisture, or water, content of the skin is decreased for any reason. The surface of the skin holds a certain amount of water and when the water content decreases, the skin becomes dry, itchy, and uncomfortable. Some people have extremely sensitive skin that is easily irritated. Since a person’s lips are often exposed to elements such as cold and moisture, the lips may become irritated before other body parts do.
Lips that are chapped usually have the following qualities: roughness, dryness, redness, peeling, cracking, sensitivity, tenderness.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to dry skin. As people age, their skin tends to become drier. Dry air, resulting from winter’s low humidity and the use of indoor heat, can cause skin to dry out. Long, hot baths and showers can also make skin dry. Following are factors that increase a person’s risk of chapped lips:
-Prolonged exposure to cold, dry weather
-Sunburn or windburn
-Smoking
-A history of a skin disorder, such as eczema
-A habit of licking the lips frequently
-Certain medications, such as those to treat acne
-Allergic reactions to cosmetics or skin care products
-Dehydration
Some cases of chapped lips can be avoided by eliminating the cause of the condition. For example, chapping from an allergic reaction to a skin care product will go away when the individual stops using the product. Other measures to prevent chapped lips include:
-Avoiding frequent licking of the lips
-Avoiding unnecessary exposure to cold weather, sun, or wind
-Applying lip balm frequently
-Eliminating skin care products that may be triggering an allergic reaction
-Avoiding smoking
-Drinking plenty of water
See a health care provider if symptoms persist after treatment or if they worsen.