Dry, flaky, or painfully cracked lips are a common problem, especially during colder months or after extended exposure to the sun. Chapped lips can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, harsh weather, and even certain habits. If you’re struggling with this condition, there are effective remedies and preventive measures that can restore the health of your lips.
In this post, we’ll discuss what you should do—and avoid—to care for chapped lips effectively.
What Causes Chapped Lips?
Before diving into remedies, it’s important to understand the common causes of chapped lips:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can dry out your lips.
- Environmental factors: Cold, windy weather or excessive sun exposure can sap moisture from your lips.
- Lip licking: While it may seem soothing, licking your lips can make the problem worse by removing natural oils.
- Allergic reactions: Certain lip products may contain irritants or allergens that trigger dryness and peeling.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Low levels of vitamins like B2 (riboflavin) can contribute to dry, cracked lips.
- Medications: Retinoids, chemotherapy drugs, and certain acne treatments can have lip dryness as a side effect.
What to Do for Chapped Lips
- Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body—and lips—hydrated. - Use a Lip Balm with SPF
Choose a lip balm that includes sun protection to shield your lips from harmful UV rays. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid for extra moisture. - Apply Petroleum Jelly or Ointments
Ointments like petroleum jelly lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against environmental irritants. - Exfoliate Gently
Use a lip scrub made with sugar and honey or a damp washcloth to gently remove dead skin. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can worsen the issue. - Humidify Your Space
Use a humidifier at home, especially during winter, to prevent air from becoming too dry. - Eat a Balanced Diet
Ensure your diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in B vitamins and zinc to support lip health.
What NOT to Do for Chapped Lips
- Avoid Licking Your Lips
Saliva can evaporate quickly, leaving lips drier than before and exacerbating the problem. - Don’t Use Lip Balms with Irritants
Stay away from products with fragrances, menthol, or camphor, as they can irritate your lips further. - Refrain from Picking or Peeling
Pulling off flaky skin can cause bleeding and delay healing. - Avoid Overuse of Matte Lipsticks
Matte lipsticks can be drying. If you use them, apply a hydrating lip balm underneath. - Don’t Skip Sun Protection
Even in winter, UV rays can damage the delicate skin of your lips.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your chapped lips persist despite consistent care or if you notice severe cracking, bleeding, or signs of infection (like swelling or pus), it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Chronic chapped lips may be a sign of underlying conditions such as angular cheilitis, eczema, or a reaction to certain medications.
At Medical & Aesthetic Dermatology, we can evaluate your symptoms, determine the root cause, and provide effective treatments tailored to your needs.
Comprehensive Q&A on Chapped Lips
Q: Can I use coconut oil for chapped lips?
A: Yes, coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that can help repair dry lips. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also soothe irritation.
Q: How often should I apply lip balm?
A: You can apply lip balm as often as needed, especially after eating, drinking, or wiping your lips. Look for balms with nourishing and protective ingredients.
Q: Are there medical treatments for severely chapped lips?
A: Yes, a dermatologist may recommend prescription treatments like hydrocortisone ointment for severe inflammation or medicated balms for underlying conditions like angular cheilitis.
Q: Can allergies cause chapped lips?
A: Absolutely. Allergies to certain ingredients in lip products or foods can trigger dryness and irritation. A dermatologist can help identify the allergen through patch testing.
Q: Is Vaseline safe for daily use?
A: Yes, Vaseline or petroleum jelly is safe and effective for daily use as it locks in moisture without causing irritation.
Contact Us
If chapped lips are interfering with your daily life, let us help. At Medical & Aesthetic Dermatology, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of skin conditions, including chronic lip dryness.
📍 Location:
9256 Bendix Road, Suite 200A
Columbia, MD 21045
📞 Phone: (443) 542-0505
🌐 Visit our website to schedule your appointment and learn more about how we can support your skin health. Don’t let chapped lips keep you from smiling—contact us today!