Chapped lips are the result of environmental factors, such as dry air, cold or wind, excess saliva, lip licking, dehydration or a medical problem, such as herpes or impetigo. Infants love to put things in their mouths, and this can lead to drooling. According to the Mayo Clinic, saliva evaporates quickly and will dry out lips. When babies go through a cycle of continuous wet and then dry conditions, lips may become inflamed, swollen and chapped. Some preventive steps will protect the skin to help reduce irritation, so your baby's lips can heal.
Step 1
Set up a humidifier in the baby's room. Adding moisture to the air will help keep the baby's nasal passages and skin from getting dry.
Step 2
Rub lanolin on the baby's lips. Lanolin provides a film that will protect lips from the constant wet and dry condition brought on by drooling.
Step 3
Give the baby plenty of fluids. Dehydration can cause chapped lips. Ask your doctor about giving the baby water between feedings to help keep lips hydrated.
Step 4
Protect the baby's face when going outside. Cover the face adequately to protect lips from extreme cold. Put a hat on the baby's head and stay in the shade during sunny days. Put some lanolin ointment on the lips before going outside.
Step 5
Check the baby for symptoms that may indicate illness. Look inside his mouth for sores or a swollen tongue. Take the baby's temperature; dry lips can be the result of a fever. If the baby shows signs of illness, take him to the doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- If chapped lips are a chronic problem for your infant, talk to your doctor to determine the cause.
- If the baby has a sore around the lips, this may be a sign of a skin condition. Some skin problems that can affect infants are communicable. See your doctor to have sores evaluated. If the baby's lips are extremely swollen, this may be an allergic reaction and a medical emergency. Take the baby to the hospital if lips and tongue swell or the baby is having problems breathing.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
- Lanolin
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