What is it?

Cheilitis, or chapped lips, can occur for a variety of reasons: extreme environmental conditions, dehydration, certain medications or even spending the day down at the seashore can all lead to tight, dry and uncomfortable lips. Mildly chapped lips are typically dry or flaky, and can be healed with an over-the-counter balm or ointment. Severely chapped lips may have painful fissures, redness and are often prone to swelling or bleeding.

How do you get it?

Environmental damage is a well-known cause of chapped lips and includes harsh sunlight, cold temperatures, saltwater and wind. Other causes of chapped lips include skin conditions such as eczema, smoking, certain medications, and even toothpaste. In particular, the prescription acne treatment Accutane is known for causing lips to become painfully dry and chapped. Be sure to consult with your dermatologist or doctor for advice on treating the extreme dehydration of lips associated with prescription medications.

Also, certain skin care products, if they come into contact with the lips, can cause dryness such as: retinoids, glycolic or salicylic acid or even vitamin C. If any treatment product does get on the lips, rinse carefully with warm water and follow-up with a moisturizing lip balm. Finally, but perhaps most importantly, habits such as licking, picking or biting the lips can all cause painful dryness.

Treatment

For optimal results, the dry, flaky skin on the lips needs to be exfoliated away, just as on the face so exfoliate with a gentle scrub created specifically for the lips. However, do not exfoliate if lips show signs of bleeding, infection, or pain. After exfoliating, hydrate the lips with a soothing lip balm. Choose a high-quality balm free from irritating ingredients like alcohol, camphor or menthol and if you’re prone to licking your lips, opt for unscented balms instead of fruity or sweet fragrances. For small cuts in the corners of the mouth or painful and infected lips, use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone or antibiotic cream. Finally, while lips are healing, avoid spicy foods, citrus, and alcohol as these can cause further irritation.

Our Product Picks

Lip care regimens should begin with a gentle exfoliation: Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub will slough off dull skin and enrich the lips with natural oils. Follow with a soothing balm free from irritating additives: Bliss Superbalm Lip Conditioner includes natural ingredients like vitamin E, cocoa butter and mango, in addition to protection from UV rays. At nighttime, opt for a heavier product such as Pevonia Power Repair Youthful Lip Serum which will not only hydrate, but help refine the texture of the lips and appearance of fine lines.

Special considerations

Lips are particularly sensitive to environmental conditions because they contain no oil glands to produce moisture. If possible, use a moisturizing barrier on the lips throughout the day, and reapply after eating or drinking. Even lipstick can act as a barrier. Choose a hydrating formula or if you prefer an ultra-matte finish, apply a moisturizing lip treatment first before applying lip color. If the lips are extremely chapped, skip lipstick; not only will the color not adhere, but the lipstick can dry the lips out further — choose a tinted lip balm instead. Finally, take care of your general health. Increase your intake of fluids, and don’t forget a daily multi-vitamin.