Chapped lips occur when your lips feel cracked, dry, or irritated. The skin on the lips is much thinner and more delicate than other parts of the body, making it more susceptible to dryness. If your lips sting or burn, they are likely chapped. While dry lips are common in winter, they can happen at any time of the year. The medical term for chapped lips is cheilitis.
Types of Cheilitis
Chapped lips are characterized by fissures or cracks in the lips.
Angular cheilitis.
Cheilitis simplex.
Actinic cheilitis.
Angular cheilitis.
Drug-induced cheilitis.
Symptoms of Chapped Lips:
Cracks or fissures
Bleeding
Sores
Flaking
Dryness
Swelling
Unlike other parts of the skin, lips don't have oil glands, making them more prone to drying out and cracking. Some common causes include:
Causes of Chapped Lips:
Excessive licking of the lips.
Certain medications (e.g., those containing vitamin A, lithium, retinoids, chemotherapy drugs).
Dehydration.
Dry weather.
Sun damage.
Infections and inflammatory diseases.
Braces or orthodontic appliances.
Dry lips are often linked to infections and inflammatory conditions. Cracked lips can allow bacteria to enter, leading to infections. People with orthodontic braces are particularly prone to dry lips or cheilitis.
Preventive Measures:
Avoid licking your lips - It may provide temporary relief but worsens dryness.
Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water, fresh juices, and eat water-rich fruits.
Protect your lips - Apply a moisturizing lip balm or cream with SPF.
Cover up - Use a scarf to shield your lips from harsh weather.
Breathe through your nose - Mouth breathing can dry out your lips.
Stop biting your lips - This can cause irritation and cracks.
Avoid holding metal objects with your lips - It can trigger irritation or allergic reactions.
Dry or chapped lips can sometimes result from infections or underlying health conditions, not just environmental factors.
Managing Dry Lips:
Apply a high-quality lip balm every two hours.
It's a natural moisturizer with antibacterial properties. Apply 2-3 times daily.
Remove dead skin to keep lips smooth.
Drink plenty of water.
Adds moisture to the air, preventing dryness..
Adds moisture to the air, preventing dryness.
"Take care of your lips so you can smile more!".
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