Dry skin around the lips can be irritating and uncomfortable. Dry skin occurs in people of all ages; however, it is more common as you age, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Skin gets thinner, which promotes dryness, flaking and cracking. Protect skin from dryness and irritation with treatment and prevention strategies.
Weather Changes
Skin around the lips is usually driest in the winter time, according to MayoClinic.com. Humidity levels are lower, sucking moisture from the skin. Frequent use of air conditioning, fireplaces and heaters also dries out skin. If you have a skin condition, such as eczema, dryness is worse in the winter time, too. A humidifier is a solution for treating dry lip skin caused by weather changes. Humidifiers are available at most drugstores. Change water in the humidifier daily to prevent bacteria accumulation in the air.
Hot Baths and Showers
If you shower more than once daily, dry lip skin can occur. Use warm or cool water rather than hot water, which strips the skin's natural oils. Close the door when taking a shower. This traps humidity in the bathroom, promoting moisture in the skin. Avoid taking baths or showers that last longer than 5 to 10 minutes.
Use a moisturizer on the skin within three minutes of washing the face or taking a shower. Gently pat the skin dry with a towel to assist with trapping moisture in the skin. Select a moisturizer that contains lanolin, petrolatum or hyaluronic acid, recommends the American Academy of Dermatology.
Irritants
Using harsh soaps and skin products on the skin around the lips causes dryness. Antibacterial soaps are the most drying to skin. Choose a mild cleanser that is fragrance-free, recommends the American Academy of Dermatology. Avoid the use of retinoids and alpha-hydroxy acid creams, which make skin around the lips itchy, dry and irritated. Products that contain alcohol also dry out the skin.
Sun Exposure
Wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF to protect skin around the lips. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a common cause of dryness around the mouth. Harmful rays damage collagen and elastin in the skin, resulting in dry skin, itching and discomfort, according to MayoClinic.com.
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