10 causes of dry, cracked lips and how to treat them
Dry and cracked lips are a common but uncomfortable problem that can arise for various reasons. This condition may indicate dehydration, vitamin deficiency, or even an excess of certain vitamins. Regardless of the underlying cause, the discomfort and pain associated with dry, cracked lips can significantly impact daily life.
Understand the unique nature of lip skin
The skin on our lips is very different from the rest of our face. Unlike facial skin, lips lack sebaceous glands, which are essential for producing the oils that keep the skin moisturized. Without these glands, lips are susceptible to dryness, roughness, and rapid loss of moisture. In addition, the lips contain a small amount of melanin, which makes them very sensitive to sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight without adequate protection can lead to dry lips, a phenomenon that varies depending on skin type, as dark skin contains more melanin than light skin.
The most important causes of dry and cracked lips
- Licking lips
Lip licking is a common habit for many people, but it is also a major cause of dry lips. Saliva contains digestive enzymes that can irritate the delicate skin of the lips, removing the thin, protective fatty layer. This moisture loss leads to dry and chapped lips, especially affecting the lower lip.
- Harsh weather conditions
Cold, dry air and hot weather can strip lips of their protective moisture barrier, leading to pain and dryness. In such conditions, people often lick their lips frequently, which aggravates the problem.
- Ingredients in lipstick
Some ingredients in lipstick can cause skin allergies and irritation. Synthetic fragrances, dyes and preservatives found in lipstick are known to be the culprit. These substances can cause dry, flaky, and red lips. It is recommended to conduct an allergy test before using any new lip product on a large scale.
- Toothpaste
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common ingredient in toothpaste, can cause dry and cracked lips. Likewise, some toothpastes contain mint, which can irritate sensitive skin. Performing a patch test can help identify any adverse reactions.
- Eczema
People with eczema are more likely to develop chapped lips, a condition known as lip dermatitis. This is often caused by an allergy to cosmetics or dental products.
- Drying
Dryness is an important factor in dry lips. Since the lips lack sebaceous glands to replenish lost moisture, insufficient water intake can aggravate the condition. It is recommended to drink about eight cups of water daily to maintain adequate hydration.
- Exposure to sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV rays can damage skin cells and dry out lips. This problem affects the lower lip more than the upper lip due to its lack of protection from melanin and oils. If left untreated, it can lead to peeling and bleeding of the lips.
- Medicines
Some medications, such as retinoids or antibiotics, can cause dry lips. It is important to discuss this side effect with your healthcare provider if it occurs.
- Therapeutic lip products
Many medicated lip products contain ingredients such as camphor, menthol, or phenol, which can irritate the lips. These substances often cause a tingling sensation, which can be confused with their effectiveness, but they usually lead to dry lips.
- Vitamin imbalance
A deficiency of B vitamins, iron and zinc can lead to a condition known as cheilitis, which is characterized by red, thick, scaly lips. This condition can be aggravated by constant licking of the lips, biting and sucking. Incorporating green vegetables, liver, fish, grains, and whole grains into the diet or taking nutritional supplements can help relieve dry lips.
On the other hand, excess vitamin A can also cause dry lips. This condition can be acute or chronic. Foods such as milk, eggs, dark fruits, and yellow, orange or red fruits provide adequate amount of vitamin A. To avoid hypervitaminosis, it is recommended to refrain from taking additional vitamin A supplements.
Dry, cracked lips can result from a variety of causes, each of which contributes to the condition in different ways. Understanding these causes and taking preventive measures can help maintain healthy and hydrated lips. Keeping lips moisturized, protecting lips from harsh weather and sunlight, choosing lip products carefully, and maintaining a balanced diet are essential steps to preventing and treating dry, cracked lips. By addressing these factors, one can enjoy the comfort of soft, healthy lips.
