Even before winter fully sets in, many people are finding their lips dry, peeling, or cracked at the corners. Besides the change in weather, frequent lip licking, dehydration, and the use of certain cosmetics can also play a role. Doctors say it is important to start caring for your lips now rather than waiting for winter.
The skin on the lips is much thinner than on other parts of the face, and it has almost no oil-producing glands. As a result, lips lose moisture very easily. Without proper care, this dryness can lead to cracks, pain, and a burning sensation.
Why the lips crack
Change in weather: Falling humidity, dry air, and temperature fluctuations reduce the natural moisture of the lips. This is why many people’s lips start cracking even before winter arrives.
Frequent lip licking: When lips feel dry, many people wet them with their tongue. But once the saliva evaporates, the lips become even rougher, worsening cracks and discomfort.
Dehydration: Without enough water in the body, the lips and other parts of the face can become dry. However, chapped lips alone cannot confirm dehydration.
Cosmetics and toothpaste: Ingredients in some lipsticks, lip balms, scented cosmetics, and toothpastes can cause allergies or inflammation on the lips. If burning or dryness increases after using such products, they should be avoided.
Nutritional deficiencies: Lip problems, especially cracks at the corners of the mouth, can be linked to a lack of essential nutrients, including iron and vitamin B12. However, it would be wrong to conclude that someone has a deficiency based on these symptoms alone.
Skin conditions or infections: Lips that stay cracked for a long time, turn red, itch, or develop sores at the corners may also be affected by eczema, allergies, or infections.
How to care for your lips
Use lip balm regularly: Fragrance-free and flavor-free petroleum jelly or a plain lip balm can help lock in moisture. Applying it when lips feel dry and before bed may help.
Stop licking lips and picking at dry skin: Wetting the lips with the tongue and pulling off dry skin can cause wounds on the lip skin and increase burning.
Drink enough water: Drink water regularly according to your body’s needs. However, drinking water alone does not cure dry lips; keeping moisture in from the outside is also important.
Protect from the sun: Ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage the lips. When going out, a broad-spectrum lip balm with SPF 30 or higher can be used. If you stay outdoors for a long time, reapply it according to the product’s instructions.
Avoid irritating products: Products containing menthol, camphor, fragrance, or other harsh ingredients can worsen discomfort. If a product causes burning or dryness, stop using it.
When to see a doctor
Consult a doctor if the cracks do not improve despite basic care, if the problem persists, or if you develop severe pain, inflammation, sores, or signs of infection. If cracks at the corners of the lips keep recurring, it is especially important to find the underlying cause.
Experts say chapped lips should not be dismissed as a minor issue. Using lip balm regularly, giving up the habit of licking the lips, and avoiding irritating cosmetics can go a long way toward keeping dryness under control.