From the Guidelines
Dry lips can be effectively managed with regular application of a fatty ointment such as Vaseline, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 1. To alleviate dryness of the lips, consider the following measures:
- Apply a lip balm containing ingredients like petroleum jelly, beeswax, shea butter, or ceramides several times throughout the day, especially before bedtime, after eating, and before going outdoors.
- Drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses daily) to maintain overall hydration, which benefits the lips.
- Avoid licking the lips as saliva evaporates quickly and contains enzymes that can further dry the skin.
- Use a humidifier in the home, particularly during winter months when indoor heating reduces air moisture. For severely cracked lips, consider products containing lanolin or hyaluronic acid for intensive repair. It is essential to note that dry lips can be a side effect of certain medications, such as acitretin, and may also be associated with underlying conditions like Sjögren's syndrome 1. If the lips remain persistently dry despite these measures, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.
From the Research
Causes of Dry Lips
- Dry lips can be a symptom of cheilitis, which is a common reason for dermatologic consultation 2
- Cheilitis can be caused by various factors, including irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, atopic cheilitis, actinic cheilitis, infectious etiologies, nutritional deficiencies, and drug-induced cheilitis 2, 3
- Irritants such as climatic, mechanical, and caustic agents can also cause cheilitis 3
- Allergic contact cheilitis can be investigated with a detailed anamnesis and patch testing to confirm the diagnosis of delayed hypersensitivity 3, 4
Diagnosis and Treatment
- The diagnosis of cheilitis can be difficult due to the similarity in symptoms, and extensive testing and treatment trials may be required 2
- A diagnostic algorithm can assist clinicians in the management of cheilitis 2
- Topical treatments such as Calendula officinalis L. have been shown to be effective in treating exfoliative cheilitis 5
- Patch testing is required to confirm the diagnosis of delayed hypersensitivity in allergic contact cheilitis 3, 4
Associated Conditions
- Cheilitis can be associated with various systemic conditions, such as lichen planus, lupus, atopic dermatitis, and nutritional deficiencies 3
- Erosive and crusty cheilitis and bullous erosive stomatitis can be symptoms of erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome 3
- Granulomatous macrocheilitis (cheilitis granulomatosa) can present with intermittent or permanent lip swelling and can be confirmed by a biopsy 3