Red, cracked and swollen are three words no one wants to use to describe their lips, no matter what time of year it is. Issues with chapped lips may seem more prevalent in winter, but cold weather and wind are not the only reasons this condition appears. Luckily, treatment normally can be done at home.
Definition
Cheilitis is the official medical term for chapped lips. This condition refers to lips that look and feel scaly, dry and may have cracks. Chapped lips feel sensitive to anything touching them. Swelling is sometimes present with chapped lips, along with additional redness that is not the normal lip color. The outline of the lips when chapped may be hard to distinguish and the mouth can appear larger. The lack of hydration in the lips can also lead to peeling.
Causes
Mayoclinic.com reports that issues with chapped lips can appear for many reasons, including exposure to cold, dry air both indoors and outdoors, the wind, excessive sun exposure, mouth breathing, licking the lips, dehydration or contact with allergens or irritants around the mouth. High fevers and certain vitamin deficiencies can also cause chapped lips. Medications are a cause of chapped lips, especially retinoids, chemotherapy agents, lithium and high doses of vitamin A, according to the skinsight.com website.
Treatments
For issues with chapped lips, at-home treatment is the most common method. If the cause of chapped lips is a medication, stop taking it as long as a medical professional says it is safe to do so. If a medication cannot be stopped, petroleum jelly should be applied as often as needed throughout the day. Remain hydrated during the day by drinking plenty of fluids, and keep the air in the home or office moist, the Mayo Clinic advises.
Prevention
Before going out in to harsh conditions, make sure an oil-based cream or balm that contains petroleum or beeswax and a sunscreen is applied to the lips. Hydration is key in both the treatment and prevention of chapped lips, so the recommendations for drinking fluids and using a home humidifier fall under prevention guidelines, as well. Never hold items in the mouth, especially metal objects such as paper clips, and avoid licking envelopes. To prevent dehydration and chapped lips, don't suck on fruit rinds or kiss someone while she is wearing lipstick. And, avoid licking your lips, whenever possible.
Considerations
Chapped lips can happen to any age group but when caused by excessive lip licking it is most common in 7 to 15 year olds. Medicated lip preparations should not be used, as they can increase the risk of an allergic reaction and worsen the condition. Chronic chapped lips may be a result of a dental problem or an allergic reaction to ingredients in commonly used products such as toothpaste. Patients with autoimmune disorders may present with a photosensitivity on the lips that leads to chapped lips. If your lips are consistently scaling, see a dermatologist.
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