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Cause of extremely dry lips. 7 Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Healing Extremely Dry and Chapped Lips

by alexxlab

What causes extremely dry lips. How can you effectively heal chapped lips. Which dermatologist-recommended treatments provide relief for dry lips. What lifestyle changes can prevent lip dryness. How do lip care routines differ for various skin types. When should you see a doctor about persistently dry lips. What natural remedies can soothe and hydrate lips.

Understanding the Root Causes of Extremely Dry Lips

Extremely dry lips can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition that affects many people. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Environmental factors, dehydration, and certain medical conditions can all contribute to this issue.

Environmental factors play a significant role in lip dryness. Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as cold temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity, can strip the lips of their natural moisture. Additionally, excessive sun exposure can damage the delicate skin on the lips, leading to dryness and chapping.

Dehydration is another common culprit. When the body lacks sufficient water, it can manifest in various ways, including dry lips. Inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, or certain medications can contribute to dehydration and, consequently, lip dryness.

Certain medical conditions may also be responsible for persistently dry lips. These can include:

  • Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins and iron
  • Autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Allergic reactions to lip products or foods
  • Yeast infections of the mouth (oral thrush)
  • Certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

Is frequently licking your lips a cause of dryness? Yes, contrary to popular belief, licking your lips can actually worsen the problem. While it may provide temporary relief, saliva evaporates quickly, leaving the lips even drier than before. Additionally, digestive enzymes in saliva can irritate the lip skin, exacerbating the issue.

Essential Lip Care Routine: Dermatologist-Recommended Practices

Establishing a proper lip care routine is crucial for maintaining healthy, hydrated lips. Dermatologists recommend the following practices:

  1. Gentle exfoliation: Use a soft toothbrush or a homemade sugar scrub to gently remove dead skin cells once or twice a week.
  2. Regular moisturization: Apply a nourishing lip balm or ointment throughout the day, especially before bedtime.
  3. Sun protection: Use lip products with SPF to shield your lips from harmful UV rays.
  4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your body and lips hydrated from within.
  5. Humidifier use: Consider using a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air, particularly in dry climates or during winter months.

How often should you apply lip balm? Dermatologists suggest applying lip balm 3-4 times daily, or more frequently if needed. Pay special attention to reapplication after eating, drinking, or exposure to harsh weather conditions.

The Power of Natural Remedies for Dry Lips

While commercial lip care products can be effective, many people prefer natural remedies for treating dry lips. These home remedies can be both soothing and hydrating:

  • Honey: A natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture
  • Coconut oil: Rich in fatty acids that nourish and protect the lips
  • Aloe vera: Provides cooling relief and promotes healing
  • Cucumber slices: Offer hydration and soothing properties
  • Green tea bags: Contain antioxidants that can help repair damaged lip skin

Can natural oils effectively replace commercial lip balms? Yes, many natural oils can serve as excellent alternatives to store-bought lip balms. Jojoba oil, for instance, closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum and can be particularly effective. Other beneficial oils include avocado oil, shea butter, and vitamin E oil.

DIY Lip Mask Recipe for Intense Hydration

For an extra boost of hydration, try this simple DIY lip mask:

  1. Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil
  2. Add a few drops of vitamin E oil
  3. Apply the mixture to your lips and leave on for 15-20 minutes
  4. Gently wipe off with a warm, damp cloth
  5. Follow up with your favorite lip balm

Use this mask once or twice a week for best results.

Identifying and Avoiding Common Lip Irritants

Sometimes, the products we use or the foods we eat can contribute to lip dryness and irritation. Being aware of these potential irritants can help you maintain healthier lips:

  • Flavored lip products: Artificial flavors and fragrances can cause irritation
  • Alcohol-based products: These can be drying and harsh on sensitive lip skin
  • Mint-flavored products: While refreshing, mint can be irritating for some people
  • Citrus fruits and juices: The acidity can cause lip irritation and dryness
  • Spicy foods: These can irritate the lips and surrounding skin
  • Tobacco products: Smoking can significantly contribute to lip dryness

Are all-natural lip products always safe for sensitive lips? Not necessarily. Even natural ingredients can cause irritation in some individuals. It’s essential to patch-test new products and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions.

The Role of Nutrition in Maintaining Healthy Lips

Your diet plays a crucial role in the health of your lips. Ensuring you consume a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can help prevent and alleviate dry lips:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these healthy fats help maintain skin hydration
  • Vitamin B complex: Crucial for overall skin health, found in whole grains, lean meats, and leafy greens
  • Vitamin C: Supports collagen production, abundant in citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers
  • Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and avocados
  • Iron: Essential for healthy skin, found in lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals
  • Zinc: Supports skin healing, present in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds

Can dietary changes alone cure chronically dry lips? While nutrition plays a significant role in overall skin health, dietary changes alone may not be sufficient to cure chronically dry lips. A comprehensive approach that includes proper lip care, hydration, and addressing underlying medical conditions is often necessary for optimal results.

When to Seek Professional Help for Dry Lips

While dry lips are often a manageable condition, there are instances where professional medical advice should be sought. Consider consulting a dermatologist or healthcare provider if:

  • Your lips remain persistently dry and chapped despite consistent care
  • You experience severe pain, bleeding, or signs of infection
  • Your lip condition is accompanied by other symptoms like rashes or swelling
  • You suspect an allergic reaction to a lip product
  • Your dry lips are interfering with daily activities like eating or speaking

What diagnostic procedures might a dermatologist use for persistent lip dryness? A dermatologist may perform a visual examination, take a detailed medical history, and in some cases, recommend tests such as patch testing for allergies or blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune conditions.

Potential Treatments Prescribed by Dermatologists

Depending on the underlying cause and severity of your lip condition, a dermatologist might recommend:

  • Prescription-strength moisturizers or ointments
  • Topical corticosteroids for inflammation
  • Antifungal medications if a yeast infection is present
  • Vitamin supplements if deficiencies are detected
  • Medications to manage underlying autoimmune conditions

Seasonal Lip Care: Adapting Your Routine Throughout the Year

The changing seasons can have a significant impact on the health of your lips. Adapting your lip care routine to address seasonal challenges can help maintain soft, hydrated lips year-round:

Winter Lip Care

Cold temperatures and low humidity in winter can be particularly harsh on lips. Focus on:

  • Using thicker, more occlusive lip balms
  • Applying lip balm before going outdoors
  • Covering your mouth with a scarf in windy conditions
  • Using a humidifier indoors to combat dry air

Summer Lip Care

Sun exposure and increased outdoor activities in summer require special attention:

  • Use lip products with high SPF (30 or above)
  • Reapply sun protection frequently, especially after swimming or sweating
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for additional lip protection

How does altitude affect lip dryness? Higher altitudes often have lower humidity and increased UV exposure, which can exacerbate lip dryness. When traveling to high-altitude locations, be extra diligent with lip care, using both moisturizing and sun-protective products.

Innovative Lip Care Technologies and Products

The world of lip care is constantly evolving, with new technologies and products emerging to address various lip concerns. Some innovative approaches include:

  • Hyaluronic acid-infused lip products: These attract and retain moisture for long-lasting hydration
  • Peptide-based lip treatments: Designed to stimulate collagen production and improve lip texture
  • Antioxidant-rich formulations: Protect lips from environmental damage and premature aging
  • Overnight lip masks: Provide intensive hydration while you sleep
  • Tinted lip balms with skincare benefits: Offer color and nourishment in one product

Are lip plumping products safe for dry, sensitive lips? While some lip plumping products can provide temporary fullness, they often contain ingredients that may irritate dry or sensitive lips. It’s best to focus on hydrating and nourishing your lips before considering plumping products. If you do use them, opt for gentler formulations and discontinue use if you experience any discomfort.

The Future of Lip Care

Emerging trends in lip care include:

  • Personalized lip care formulations based on individual skin type and concerns
  • Probiotic lip products to support the skin’s microbiome
  • Advanced delivery systems for more effective ingredient absorption
  • Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging options

As research in skincare continues to advance, we can expect even more targeted and effective solutions for dry, chapped lips in the future.

By understanding the causes of dry lips, implementing a proper care routine, and staying informed about the latest developments in lip care, you can maintain soft, healthy lips throughout the year. Remember that consistency is key, and don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist if you experience persistent lip issues. With the right approach, you can say goodbye to dry, chapped lips and hello to a smooth, comfortable smile.

7 dermatologists’ tips for healing dry, chapped lips

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Chapped Lips: Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors

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Medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS — By Kristeen Moore — Updated on April 25, 2023

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Cracked lips can occur more often when the weather is dry. Hydrating and using a humidifier may help. You can also get chapped lips due to other causes, such as dehydration and vitamin deficiencies.

Chapped, or cracked, lips is the term commonly used to describe dry lips. Chapped lips can be caused by several factors, that include:

  • weather
  • excessive licking of the lips
  • certain medications

Chapped lips are a common condition that only occurs for most people. But some people may develop a more severe form of chapped lips called cheilitis. Cheilitis can be caused by an infection, characterized by cracked skin at the corners of the lips.

You can usually treat dry lips with simple treatment and preventive measures. If your lips continue to be severely dry and cracked, you should consider make an appointment with a dermatologist.

You may experience any of the following symptoms on or around your lips:

  • dryness
  • flaking
  • scales
  • sores
  • swelling
  • cracks
  • bleeding

Lips don’t contain oil glands like other parts of the skin. This means lips are more susceptible to drying out and becoming chapped (cracked). Lack of moisture can make the problem worse, whether it’s weather-induced or related to a lack of self-care.

Little humidity in the air during the winter months is known to cause chapped lips. Frequent sun exposure in the summer can also worsen your condition.

Another common cause of chapped lips is habitual licking. Saliva from the tongue can further strip the lips of moisture, causing more dryness.

Everyone can get chapped lips, particularly if they have dry skin.

Taking certain medications can also increase your risk of developing chapped lips. Medications and supplements that can cause chapped lips include:

  • vitamin A
  • retinoids (Retin-A, Differin)
  • lithium (commonly used to treat bipolar disorder)
  • chemotherapy drugs

People who are dehydrated or malnourished are also more likely to have chapped lips than other people. Call your doctor if either of these are associated with your chapped lips—dehydration and malnutrition are both serious conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Cheilitis

If the severe dryness and cracking doesn’t improve with self-care, you should see a dermatologist. Cheilitis is often to blame for severely chapped lips. This is a condition marked by cracked skin at the mouth corners and several cracks on your lips.

If you have this condition, your lips may:

  • be dark pink or red in color
  • have a lumpy texture
  • develop ulcers
  • have white plaques on the surface

Cheilitis is often attributed to infections and inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn’s disease. Dental trauma and excessive saliva production may also turn a regular case of chapped lips into cheilitis. Bacteria can enter through the cracks and cause infection. Adults and children who have orthodontic braces, wear dentures, or use pacifiers are all susceptible to developing cheilitis.

A dermatologist can determine whether your dry lips are simply chapped or if you have cheilitis.

Dehydration and malnutrition

Dry lips can also be caused by dehydration or malnutrition. Dehydration causes symptoms including:

  • lightheadedness
  • constipation
  • decreased urine production
  • dry mouth
  • headache

In severe cases, a person suffering from dehydration may experience low blood pressure, fever, rapid breathing, or a rapid heartbeat.

Malnutrition is characterized by many of the same symptoms as dehydration. Additional symptoms can include:

  • muscle weakness
  • decaying teeth
  • bloated stomach
  • bone fragility

Malnutrition can be caused by vitamin deficiencies, so those on limited diets (for example, vegetarians) need to make sure that they are getting enough of the vitamins they need.

People with alcohol addiction are also more susceptible to malnutrition due to vitamin deficiencies because excessive alcohol use can interfere with the body’s vitamin absorption. Older adults are also at higher risk for malnutrition because decreased appetite is common.

If you suspect you are dehydrated or malnourished, see your doctor right away.

Chapped lips can usually be treated at home. The first step is to make sure that your lips have enough moisture. This can be accomplished by:

  • applying lip balm throughout the day
  • drinking more water
  • using a humidifier at home
  • avoiding cold weather conditions or wrapping your mouth with a scarf

Sun exposure can also cause chapped lips, especially as you age. Apply a lip balm that contains a minimum SPF 15 before heading outdoors. The balm helps to moisturize the lips and the sunscreen minimizes further drying effects.

Last medically reviewed on December 11, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Dehydration: Definition.
    mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/basics/definition/con-20030056
  • Devani A. (2007, June). Answer: Can you identify this condition?
    ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1949217/
  • Gibson LE. (2016). Chapped lips: What’s the best remedy?
    mayoclinic.com/health/chapped-lips/AN01440

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Apr 25, 2023

Written By

Kristeen Moore

Edited By

Heather Hobbs

Dec 11, 2017

Medically Reviewed By

Christine Frank, DDS

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Medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS — By Kristeen Moore — Updated on April 25, 2023

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8 causes and what to do about dryness

Contents

  • Causes of dry lips
  • Lip care features
  • Precautions
  • Vitamins for dry lips
  • Lip care product overview

Causes of dry lips

Lips are a zone of increased vulnerability. Thin skin is devoid of fatty tissue, prone to premature aging and quickly responds to changes in the state of the body and external conditions.

“There are many reasons for dry lips, but the main one is weather conditions. For example, cold wind or sudden changes in temperature.

Dry lips can be caused by many factors.

  • Sunburn. In the summer, we don’t even notice that the skin of our lips receives hefty doses of ultraviolet radiation.

  • Great thirst. You can check for yourself: coffee drinkers who drink little water and a lot of cappuccino have chapped lips.

  • Increased body temperature during illness. It is no coincidence that the most famous recommendation of doctors is to drink as much water as possible when you feel unwell.

  • Intoxication of the body. During poisoning, the body experiences an acute shortage of moisture, which cannot but affect the condition of the skin of the lips.

  • Strong stress and habit of licking lips. Without noticing it, we provoke dryness by licking or biting our lips.

  • Allergy to cosmetics. The reaction to the lipstick that is not suitable for you will not be slow to manifest itself in the form of peeling of the skin of the lips.

  • Lack of vitamins. Rigid diets, vegetarianism and other reasons for the rejection of animal products rich in fat-soluble vitamins do not affect the condition of the skin of the lips in the best way.

  • Bad habits. Constant contact with an absorbent cigarette filter deprives lip tissue of already deficient lipids.

“Dry lips can be a symptom of a serious condition. For example, the only sign of early stage diabetes or kidney disease. If neither lip balm nor taking vitamin E helps, immediately see a doctor,” warns Ekaterina Turubara, Vichy medical expert .

Causes of dry lips include weather, UV radiation, bad habits, diseases © iStock

Signs of dry lips:

  1. 1

    feeling of tightness and sensation of heat;

  2. 2

    peeling;

  3. 3

    discomfort;

  4. 4

    cracks on the lips and “zaed” in the corners of the lips.

Take our test to see if your skin is getting enough moisture.

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Lip care tips

To keep your lips soft, smooth and well hydrated, you need to take care of them.

Regular exfoliation

Now there are special scrubs for lips. But even if such a remedy is not at hand, honey or a damp thick towel will do.

To avoid injury to the delicate skin of the lips, do not apply too much pressure when applying the product.

Moisturizing and nourishing

In the composition of balms, hygienic lipsticks and creams for very dry lips, look not for Vaseline (it is appropriate only in a protective product), but for waxes. The best of them are vegetable: unlike bee, they rarely cause allergic reactions. Also useful are natural oils and vitamins, especially fat-soluble ones (E, F, provitamin A). In summer, the SPF factor becomes an essential component.

Lip balm should always be at hand: in your purse, desk drawer, in the bathroom.

Decorative lipsticks, even with precious exotic plant extracts, are not lip care products. Before lipstick, you need to apply a nourishing balm, especially if the lipstick has a matte finish.

Balanced drinking regimen and proper nutrition

Drink plenty of clean water and add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, nuts, vegetable oils) to your diet.

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Precautions

Some preventive measures will help you avoid dry lips. All recommendations start with NOT. What can’t be done?

  • Remove make-up from lips with soap or a tissue. To do this, use special products labeled “for removing makeup from the eyes and lips.”

  • Use long-lasting lipstick in severe frost. This is a direct road to dryness and flaking.

  • Smoking. Cigarette smoke dries out the thin skin of the lips, and the mimicry of the lip area when smoking provokes the appearance of purse-string wrinkles around the mouth.

  • Going outside in cold weather without protective balm.

  • Ignore lip cosmetics with SPF in summer (especially during beach holidays).

Exfoliate your lips regularly with a scrub © iStock

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Vitamins against dry lips

Speaking of dry lips, it would be wrong to say that the cause of this condition lies in the inevitable seasonal lack of vitamins. Shops and farmers’ markets sell foods rich in vitamins and minerals throughout the year.

Nevertheless, beriberi is a phenomenon familiar to many. Usually encountered:

  • vegans and vegetarians;

  • 90,002 people on strict weight loss diets;

  • people with diseases of the digestive system.

“Integumentary tissues, including those of the lips, are nourished according to the residual principle, because the body first distributes nutrients between the internal organs,” explains Ekaterina Turubara. “So the skin and hair are the first to suffer from beriberi.”

In the same way, the intake of dietary supplements will first fill the needs of the internal organs, and only after a few months the nutrients will reach the epidermis.”

Manufacturers of vitamins understand this and honestly warn that it is necessary to wait for the result after a few months of taking it, and not after the first capsule. If the skin has become dry and grayish, first pay attention to pharmaceutical preparations containing vitamins A, E, D and F.

L’Oréal Paris

Enriched with hyaluronic acid extract, antioxidants and vitamin E, this formula moisturizes and protects lips from chapping.

Lip Gloss Paradise, L’Oréal Paris

Intensely moisturizes throughout the day, stimulates collagen synthesis, increases lip volume.

Moisturizing and nourishing balms

Cicaplast Lip Balm, La Roche-Posay

Heals chapped lips and relieves irritation in the mouth area thanks to panthenol MP-lipids. Suitable for both adults and children.

Nutritic Levres Nourishing Lip Balm, La Roche-Posay

Stick balm with lipids and ceramides fights against the signs of aging, reducing wrinkles, softening and moisturizing the skin of the lips.

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Why do lips dry?

Dryness and flaking of the lips is an embarrassing and unpleasant defect that causes constant discomfort. It is difficult to enjoy communication when it hurts to laugh and talk.

Moreover, discomfort can be exacerbated at the most inopportune moment: during walks, while eating. Of course, you can moisturize your lips with cosmetics around the clock to relieve soreness, but this is only a temporary solution that does not eliminate the problem itself.

We advise you to understand the reasons that cause dry lips in you and to address them. And in order for the skin of the lips to recover sooner, you can use the recommendations and help of our cosmetologists.

Causes of dry lips

First of all pay attention to your diet . Lack of healthy fats, deficiency of vitamins and microelements in the diet can cause cracks in the corners of the lips, cause dry skin. Add nuts, avocados, red fish and butter to your diet – these foods are rich in healthy fats. To compensate for the deficiency of vitamins and trace elements, drink a course of multivitamins.

Not only nutritional deficiencies cause dry lips. The correct drinking regime is also important , as well as what kind of water you drink. Peeling of the delicate skin of the lips can occur if you abuse soft drinks or drink little water. In this case, just drink enough and preferably warm water. A glass of warm water with honey and lemon is a great start to the day. Start with this ritual every morning and you will quickly notice an improvement.

If food and drinking regimen is in order, analyze the microclimate in rooms where you spend the most time (at work and at home, for example). The air in the rooms should not be too dry. If the humidity is low, use humidifiers to bring it back to normal. Sufficiently humidified air not only favorably affects the condition of the skin, but also protects the mucous membranes from viruses.

Finally, dryness of the lips can cause a tendency to constantly lick the lips. This habit interferes especially strongly in cold weather in autumn and winter. Because of it, peeling first occurs, and then dry crusts may appear, which in no case need to be torn off or touched by hands.

Hydrafacial and gentle exfoliation with UltraCeuticals

To cope with the peeling of sensitive lips, we recommend using professional medical cosmetics from the Australian brand UltraCeuticals.

All brand cosmetics are distinguished by a high concentration of nutrients and vitamins (A, B, C, etc.). In addition, the method of delivering these nutrients to the layers of the dermis is also unique. The UltraCeuticals line includes products for both gentle, painless exfoliation and deep nourishment for damaged skin.