Cracked & Chapped Lips

Dental Health

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Cracked & Chapped Lips

Overview

Chapped lips is a medical condition whereby the lips become dry and possibly cracked that may be caused the evaporation of moisture from the lips especially upon heavy breathing through the mouth or licking of the lips caused by stuffed noses.

Treatment

  • Apply lip balm or petroleum jelly. You can also try coating your lips with skin moisturizer, vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel. These greasy products help keep your lips properly moisturized.
  • Use lip balm that contains sunblock if you are going to be outside.
  • Avoid licking your lips, since the saliva will evaporate and leave them dry.
  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
  • Consider moistening the air in your home with a humidifier.
  • Keep in mind that cracks at the corners of your mouth can indicate riboflavin deficiencies; you can treat this with vitamin B-2 supplements.
  • Have a dentist readjust ill-fitting dentures if you believe they might be the cause of your chapped lips.

Additional Considerations

  • Before applying lipstick, dab on a very small amount of lip balm or petroleum jelly to give your lips a little moisture.
  • Severely cracked lips can become infected. Use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments to guard against this.
  • If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Prevention / Risk Factors

  • Avoid going out in dry, cold weather without putting on lip balm or lipstick.
  • Try to keep the air in your home humid.
  • Use a sunscreen on your lips when outside in sunny weather.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure.

 
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