Chapped Lips

Winter or summer, sore dry lips can be an occasional problem for all of us. Ignoring them only makes matters worse. Prevention or prompt action is the key to returning your lips to a soft kissable condition.

With chapped lips the surface layer of skin becomes red and dry, it then starts to peel off. The lips become sore, and if left untreated, small cracks develop in the skin which may bleed if the lips are stretched too far when smiling or talking. Cracks can also appear at the far corners where the lips join and yawning can cause these to bleed. Infections can enter where the skin is broken, so try not to touch or lick your lips when they are chapped.

Chapped lips are most common in the winter when we're subject to cold windy weather and then to the drying effects of central heating. Sunshine or hot dry air are also common causes of dry lips. Frequent licking of the lips does not help, as the digestive enzymes in saliva can be irritating to sensitive skin. Dehydration can be an underlying factor.

Lip balm is the best remedy for chapped lips and will clear most cases in a few days. It is important to reapply it regularly throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking, and before going to sleep at night. In the summer use a lip balm that contains a sunscreen. If you use lipstick, apply a lip balm first and let it dry thoroughly before going over it with lipstick. Use a humidifier to counteract the drying effects of central heating, and drink at least eight glasses water every day to avoid dehydration.

If sore cracked lips are a persistent or recurring problem you may be short of riboflavin, taking a vitamin B complex supplement may help. Chronically dry chapped lips may indicate a deeper deficiency or underlying disorder and medical advice should be sought.