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Dry Lips? What to do - and what to watch for.


 As a dermatologist, I often come across patients who suffer from chapped lips. Chapped lips are a common problem that many people experience, especially during the winter months. However, not all dry or cracked lips are the same, and it's important to recognize when something more serious is going on.

One condition that can be mistaken for chapped lips is angular cheilitis or angular stomatitis. This condition is characterized by redness, fissures, and cracks at the corners of the mouth. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a fungal or bacterial infection, nutritional deficiencies, or simply irritation from drooling or licking the lips.

It's important to differentiate between chapped lips and angular cheilitis because the treatment for each is different. If you have angular cheilitis, you may need an antifungal or antibiotic cream to clear up the infection. Sometimes it is helpful to mix an antifungal cream with a cortisone cream. You should also avoid licking your lips, use a barrier cream especially before bed, and make sure you're getting enough nutrients like vitamin B and iron. Burt's Bees is a good option to consider.

In addition to angular cheilitis, there are other conditions that can affect the lips, such as actinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma. Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions that can develop on the lips as a result of sun damage. These lesions can appear as scaly, rough patches that don't go away on their own. If left untreated, actinic keratoses can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that has a risk of spreading elsewhere if neglected.

It's important to be aware of any changes to your lips, such as the appearance of new spots, bumps, areas that bleed easily, or patches. If you notice any changes, it's important to have them evaluated by a dermatologist. A dermatologist can perform a biopsy to determine if the lesion is cancerous or precancerous and recommend the appropriate treatment.

In addition to seeking medical attention, there are steps you can take to prevent chapped lips and protect your lips from the sun. Here are a few tips:

  1. Use a lip balm with SPF. Chop Saver is one of the best. Apply the lip balm every two hours or as needed, especially if you'll be spending time outdoors.

  2. Avoid licking your lips. Saliva can actually make your lips more dry and chapped. Instead, use a lip balm to moisturize your lips. If they are really bad, you should try fix my skin - a lip balm that contains a gentle hydrocortisone.

  3. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your lips and skin hydrated.

  4. Use an ultrasonic humidifier like this one. Dry indoor air can contribute to chapped lips. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and help prevent dry skin. But be sure to use an ultrasonic one. Blowing a fan over a traditional fabric wicking up water is the perfect recipe for spreading mold spores. Avoid it.

In conclusion, chapped lips can be a nuisance, but they can also be a sign of a more serious condition. If you have persistent chapped lips or notice any changes to your lips, it's important to see a dermatologist for evaluation and treatment. Protecting your lips from the sun and practicing good lip care can also help prevent chapped lips and other lip conditions.

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