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Medical Conditions That Can Cause Chapped Lips

If you're susceptible to chapped lips, use a lip balm that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.

Written by Longjam Dineshwori | Updated : May 4, 2023 8:41 PM IST

Medical Conditions That Can Cause Chapped Lips

Lips have no oil glands and hence they are more vulnerable to becoming dry and chapped in extreme weather conditions. Many people may experience chapped lips frequently during cold winter. The culprit here is cold or dry weather. Hot or dry weather and sunburn can also make your lips dry and crack. If you have the habit of licking your lips often, you’re susceptible to chapped lips. Called lip licker's dermatitis, the condition can also cause a rash around the mouth. Chapped lips may develop from contact with an allergen as well. If these are not the reasons, then there are certain medical conditions that can cause chapped lips. Read on to know the causes of your chapped lips and how to prevent or treat chapped lips.

Symptoms Of Chapped Lips

If you’re susceptible to chapped lips, you would experience dry or scaling lips, cracking skin, peeling skin, itching, mild pain, sores on the lips and mouth. In severe condition, you may experience painful stinging reactions while eating, especially citrus fruit and spicy foods.

How To Treat Chapped Lips At Home

Staying hydrated is essential when you have chapped lips. Frequently apply lip balm or ointment. When you’re out in the sun, use lip balm with sunscreen. Avoid licking, picking or biting your lips. Using a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air.  Also Read - Avoid Pairing These 10 Food Options With Eggs

Best Lip Balm For Chapped Lips

Opt for a lip balm that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Avoid using lip balm that contains menthol, eucalyptus, camphor and waxes as these ingredients can irritate chapped lips. Choose lip balms or ointments with ingredients like petroleum jelly, glycerin, mineral oil, castor seed oil, ceramide, dimethicone, titanium oxide, zinc oxide.